Call for Applications: Apply for WWF Russell E. Train Fellowships 2026 Supporting Master’s and PhD Studies
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is calling on aspiring conservation scientists, researchers, and environmental leaders to apply for the Russell E. Train Fellowships, a funding opportunity supporting individuals pursuing advanced studies in conservation and related fields.
Through the Russell E. Train Education for Nature Program (EFN), WWF supports the next generation of conservation professionals by providing financial assistance for master’s and doctoral degree programmes focused on research, leadership development, and solutions for environmental challenges.
The fellowship is designed for individuals committed to strengthening conservation knowledge, supporting local communities, and developing innovative approaches to protect biodiversity and ecosystems.
About WWF Russell E. Train Fellowships
The Russell E. Train Fellowships are part of WWF’s Education for Nature Program, which invests in conservation leaders and scientists from eligible countries.
The programme supports graduate-level education and research that contributes to:
- Conservation science
- Biodiversity protection
- Sustainable development
- Community-led environmental solutions
- Indigenous and local knowledge systems
Fellows become part of a global network of conservation professionals working to address environmental challenges and create long-term solutions.
The fellowship supports individuals who are passionate about combining scientific research with practical conservation efforts.
WWF Conservation Futures Fellowship Opportunity
The Conservation Futures Fellowship focuses on supporting researchers, practitioners, and leaders pursuing master’s or PhD studies related to conservation.
The fellowship encourages research that:
- Strengthens understanding of conservation challenges
- Promotes partnerships with Indigenous peoples and local communities
- Supports locally driven conservation strategies
- Values traditional and community knowledge
- Develops practical tools and solutions for environmental protection
Selected fellows have the opportunity to join WWF’s expanding global community of conservation leaders and collaborate with professionals working across different regions.
Who Can Apply?
The fellowship is open to individuals from eligible countries within WWF-US priority areas who are enrolled in or interested in enrolling in a graduate programme.
Eligible applicants include:
- Conservation researchers
- Environmental scientists
- Conservation practitioners
- Emerging environmental leaders
- Individuals pursuing master’s or PhD studies
Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to conservation and research that creates positive environmental and community outcomes.
Eligible countries include:
- Kenya
- Zambia
- Uganda
- Tanzania
- Mozambique
- Cameroon
- Democratic Republic of Congo
- Republic of Congo
- Madagascar
- Namibia
- Indonesia
- Vietnam
- Cambodia
- Brazil
- Colombia
- Peru
- Ecuador
- Bolivia
- Nepal
- Bhutan
- Belize
- Guatemala
- Guyana
- Honduras
- Fiji
- Malaysia
- Myanmar
- Laos
- Suriname
- Chile
- Paraguay
- French Guiana
Funding Support Available
The WWF Russell E. Train Fellowships provide financial support to help conservation leaders complete their graduate studies.
Successful applicants may receive:
- Up to $30,000 per year for master’s or PhD programmes
- Funding support for up to two years for master’s studies
- Funding support for up to three years for PhD studies
Funding can help cover:
- Tuition and academic fees
- Living expenses
- Books and learning materials
- Research-related costs
The final award amount depends on the applicant’s proposal, research needs, and available funding.
Special Focus: Human-Wildlife Conflict Research in Uganda
WWF also offered a specialised fellowship opportunity supporting Ugandan nationals researching solutions to human-wildlife conflict.
The programme focused on developing approaches to address conflicts between communities and elephants around agricultural areas near Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda.
The fellowship supported master’s research in areas including:
- Biology
- Ecology
- Conservation
- Zoology
- Geography
The initiative aimed to strengthen local conservation capacity and develop practical solutions that promote coexistence between people and wildlife.
Building the Next Generation of Conservation Leaders
Environmental challenges such as biodiversity loss, climate change, and human-wildlife conflict require skilled researchers and innovative leaders.
The Russell E. Train Fellowships provide more than financial assistance. They create opportunities for participants to:
- Develop advanced research skills
- Connect with global conservation experts
- Contribute to environmental solutions
- Strengthen conservation leadership in their countries
By supporting graduate education and research, WWF helps build a stronger global network of professionals dedicated to protecting nature and supporting communities.
Application Deadline and Future Opportunities
The application deadline for the 2026 Russell E. Train Fellowships was 15 April 2026 at 11:59 PM US Eastern Time. Applications for this cycle are now closed.
Interested applicants are encouraged to monitor future WWF Education for Nature Program announcements for upcoming fellowship cycles.
Early preparation can help future applicants strengthen their research proposals, identify suitable academic programmes, and develop conservation projects aligned with WWF’s mission.
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Disclaimer: Remote Job Opportunities (RJO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the responsible organization directly. Please do not send your applications to RJO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
