Application Deadline: 16 August 2026
The Social Sciences Lab MENA Junior Fellowship 2026 is now accepting applications from aspiring researchers and early-career scholars interested in advancing research on the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Organized by the Social Sciences Lab MENA (SSL-MENA), this fellowship is designed to strengthen participants’ research skills through mentorship, institutional affiliation, academic supervision, and collaboration with an international network of scholars.
Whether you’re a recent graduate, an independent researcher, or an emerging academic looking to build a stronger research profile, this fellowship offers an excellent opportunity to receive structured support and gain exposure to international academic networks.
About the Social Sciences Lab MENA Junior Fellowship 2026
The SSL-MENA Junior Fellowship is a research capacity-building initiative that equips young scholars with practical research experience, professional mentorship, and opportunities for academic collaboration.
The fellowship focuses on empowering researchers to pursue their own research interests while benefiting from expert guidance, interdisciplinary collaboration, and institutional support. Fellows also become part of a growing research community committed to advancing social sciences across the MENA region.
Fellowship Benefits
Successful applicants will receive:
- One-year research affiliation with Social Sciences Lab MENA
- Continued access to the SSL-MENA research community beyond the fellowship period
- Personalized mentorship from experienced researchers
- Academic supervision and research guidance
- Access to research resources and datasets
- Opportunities to collaborate on research projects
- Academic publishing support
- Participation in thematic research groups
- Professional development workshops
- Networking opportunities with international scholars and policy researchers
Who Can Apply?
Applicants should meet the following criteria:
- Be a national of a MENA country or demonstrate a strong academic interest in MENA studies
- Hold at least a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
- Be a graduate, independent researcher, or early-career scholar
- Have proficiency in Arabic (English language skills are considered an advantage)
- Have reliable internet access for virtual meetings and research activities
- Be willing to actively participate throughout the fellowship programme
What Fellows Will Gain
Participants will have the opportunity to:
- Improve their research methodology and academic writing
- Build stronger publication records
- Receive guidance on preparing competitive research proposals
- Expand international academic collaborations
- Strengthen their profile for future postgraduate studies, grants, and research careers
- Connect with scholars across multiple disciplines studying the MENA region
How to Apply for the Social Sciences Lab MENA Junior Fellowship 2026
Interested applicants should:
- Complete the official online application form.
- Submit all requested information before the deadline.
- Await shortlisting and possible interview invitations.
Official Application Portal: MENA Junior Fellowship | Social Sciences Lab
Important Dates
- Application Opens: Currently Open
- Application Deadline: 16 August 2026
- Programme Start: 1 September 2026 (Third Edition)
Why You Should Apply
If you’re passionate about research on the Middle East and North Africa and want to strengthen your academic journey, the SSL-MENA Junior Fellowship offers a valuable platform to develop your skills while working alongside experienced researchers.
Beyond research training, participants gain access to mentorship, publication support, collaborative projects, and an international academic network that can help shape long-term research and career opportunities.
Application Link
Apply Here: MENA Junior Fellowship | Social Sciences Lab
