Call for Applications: Social Science Lab MENA Junior Fellowship 2026 for junior and emerging scholars

Ednah Carrick February 22, 2026

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Closing Date: Not Specified

Call for Applications: Social Science Lab MENA Junior Fellowship 2026 for junior and emerging scholars

Building Research Capacity Among Emerging Scholars!

The MENA Junior Fellowship aims to support junior and emerging scholars engaged in MENA studies by providing structured research training, mentorship, and institutional affiliation to strengthen their research capacity and facilitate their integration into global academic and policy research networks.

MENA Junior Fellowship

The SSL MENA Fellowship, is an enriching journey that transcends boundaries and opens doors to collaborative learning, exploration, and academic or professional growth. This fellowship is more than a structured program; it’s an opportunity to engage with diverse perspectives, delve into innovative research, and forge lasting connections with like minded individuals. Throughout this experience, you’ll not only acquire valuable skills and knowledge but also contribute to the collective wealth of insight within your chosen field.

This introduction marks the commencement of a unique voyage, where your aspirations, combined with
shared enthusiasm, will shape a transformative chapter in your academic or professional narrative. Embrace the fellowship with curiosity and vigor, as it unfolds new horizons and promises a remarkable journey of discovery and accomplishment.

What you wil get from the fellowships:

Experience Networking

Participate in a structured 3-month research fellowship program designed for junior and
independent scholars.
Develop a concrete research article through guided activities, mentorship, and clearly
defined milestones, individually or within thematic research groups.
Gain hands-on experience in academic research, research design, proposal development, and collaborative scholarly work in an international research environment.
Receive an official fellowship affiliation certificate, including recognition of completed trainings and activities, and access to support and recommendation letters when needed.
Engage with a diverse cohort of junior scholars and researchers working on MENA related topics from the region and beyond.
Interact with senior scholars, research mentors, and invited experts through training sessions, workshops, and research focused discussions.
Become part of the Lab community, connecting fellows, alumni, and affiliated researchers.
Build long-term academic and professional relationships across institutions, disciplines,
and research networks.

Support Affiliation

Receive academic mentorship and research supervision tailored to your research stage and project needs.
Obtain guidance on research design, publication strategies, and academic career development within an international research environment.
Receive support in identifying research grants, fellowships, and academic positions.
Benefit from continuous feedback, peer exchange, and structured research support throughout the fellowship period.
Obtain an official fellowship affiliation with a European based research institute for the duration of the fellowship, extendable as part of Lab community access.
Use the Lab affiliation to support applications for research funding, grants, academic opportunities, and collaborative research initiatives.
Publish, present at conferences, or contribute to collaborative research outputs under an institutional research framework.
Gain access to selected Lab resources, research networks, and the broader academic ecosystem during and after the fellowship period.

Benefits

One-year research affiliation with the Social Sciences Lab MENA, extendable through access to the Lab Community.
Tailored training, mentorship, and research supervision by experienced scholars.
Access to research data, collaborative projects, and publication opportunities.
Guidance and support in academic publishing.
Participation in thematic research groups and professional development workshops.

Eligiblity

Nationals of MENA countries or researchers with a demonstrated interest in MENA studies.
Proficient in Arabic (English is a plus).
Hold a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree (BA or equivalent).
Graduated students or early-career scholars seeking to strengthen their academic profile.
Reliable internet access for online activities and meetings.
Commitment to actively participate in scheduled sessions and collaborative tasks.