The West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI) invites young researchers from Ghana, Guinea Conakry, Liberia, Nigeria, and Senegal to apply for its 2026 Research Fellowship, running from May to October 2026. This six‑month programme strengthens the research, analytical, and documentation skills of emerging scholars while contributing to WACSI’s mission of enhancing civil society in West Africa.

This year’s fellowship prioritizes indigenous knowledge in biodiversity and conservation, encouraging research that highlights community practices, CSO contributions, and replicable models that advance development across the region.

ELIGIBILITY:

The fellowship is open to young researchers from the following countries: Ghana, Guinea, Conakry, Liberia, Nigeria, Senegal

Current staff of organisations that are part of the capacity-strengthening programme for organisations in the biodiversity sector are encouraged to apply

Those interested in honing their research skills and who may not necessarily be among the organisations in the above-mentioned programme are also encouraged to apply.

Contributors must show a strong correlation between their intended topic of interest and its relevance and/or applicability within the biodiversity and conservation sector.

Applicants must demonstrate strong analytical skills and the ability to perform independent research.

Applicants must be able to communicate fluently either in English and/or French.

BENEFIT:

Active participation in this fellowship offers fellows with a keen interest in biodiversity and conservation access to a wide range of benefits to help successfully conduct their research or engage in a knowledge documentation project. Some specific benefits include but are not limited to the following:

Opportunity to publish in a well-read and globally acclaimed platform dedicated to research on civil society in West Africa.

Production of at least one publishable research report or policy document on biodiversity and conservation. This can be either an Issue Paper, an Op-Ed and/or blog articles.

Fellows will be assigned to mentors who will guide them throughout the fellowship.

The research findings and the fellows’ experience will be used to promote good practices in West Africa and beyond.

Research fellows will receive monthly stipends and a research allowance from the institute.

Fellows are provided with a wealth of opportunities, skills, and knowledge to better plan for or advance their future careers.

Candidates would develop at least one WACSeries publication that will be published on the institute’s website.

Free access to WACSI’s publications.