Applications are now open for 12 fully funded PhD Fellowships in Climate and Development!!!
The University of Cape Town and the Africa Climate Collaborative bring the University’s existing climate expertise and initiatives together in a unified, transdisciplinary framework. Hosted by the African Climate and Development Initiative (ACDI), the programme creates a pipeline from recruitment and training through to upskilling and transition into green careers, connecting young people with opportunities in research, innovation, industry and policy. Through the Graduate School of Climate and the Climate Research and Innovation Hub, UCT is developing the next generation of climate leaders, strengthening interdisciplinary research and innovation, and creating pathways for African-led ideas and solutions to contribute to a more climate-resilient and sustainable future.
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The PhD in Climate and Development is designed for aspiring researchers and leaders seeking to advance knowledge and drive action on climate and development challenges.
The programme is a four-year degree, comprising one year of pre-doctoral coursework and three years of research offered through UCT’s Doctoral Training Programme in Climate and Development. Working under expert supervision, candidates undertake original, independent research on an advanced topic, and will be able to choose from a selection of 19 different topics, culminating in a thesis that makes a substantial contribution to knowledge in the field. The programme equips graduates to operate at the forefront of climate and development research, generating evidence and insights that can inform policy, practice
and sustainable futures.
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The Collaborative aligns with the Mastercard Foundation’s Young Africa Works strategy, which aims to enable 30 million young Africans to access dignified and fulfilling work by 2030.
By investing in people, strengthening institutions and supporting innovation, the Africa Climate Collaborative is helping to build the capabilities and opportunities needed for Africa’s emerging green economy.
Their ambition is to strengthen African institutions and empower young people to lead the ideas, solutions and opportunities that will shape a more resilient, sustainable and prosperous future.
Location:
South AfricaBenefits
- Fellows will receive R315,000 for stipend and fees; and up to R75,000 for relocation, medical insurance, research and other costs.
- Fellows will get to work under expert supervision
- The programme equips graduates to operate at the forefront of climate and development research
- Fellows will be able to generate evidence and insights that can inform policy practice and sustainable futures.
Eligibilities
- Academic qualification: A completed Master’s degree in a discipline relevant to climate and development in Africa
- Citizenship: Open to citizens of an African country ONLY.
- Age: Applicants must be under 35 years of age as of 1 February 2027.
- One topic only: Each candidate may apply to only one of the 19 listed research topics.
- UCT acceptance: Successful applicants will need to apply and be accepted for admission to study for a PhD at UCT in order to qualify for the fellowship.
Eligible Regions: Open for all African Countries and African Citizens
Application Process
- Applicants are required to complete the application process through the “apply link” below.
- To apply the following documents must be submitted:-
- Curriculum Vitae (CV), maximum 5 pages, including the names and contact details of 3 referees
- Writing Sample (previous academic or research writing)
- Academic Transcripts (Transcripts for Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees)
- Letter of Motivation (Explaining your interest in the topic and the programme)
- Copy of Identification (National ID or passport)
- Applicants should clearly indicate the single research topic to which they are applying.
Application Deadline: October 15, 2026 (10 Days Remaining)
Apply nowOfficial link
