MENA Junior Fellowship at Social Sciences Lab MENA: Fully Open International Research Fellowship | One-Year Research Affiliation

Overview

The MENA Junior Fellowship is a research development programme administered by the Social Sciences Lab MENA. It is designed to support junior and emerging scholars by strengthening their research capacity through structured training, mentorship, research supervision, and institutional affiliation. The programme seeks to help participants develop their expertise in Middle East and North Africa studies while facilitating their integration into international academic and policy research networks.

Who can apply

The fellowship welcomes applicants of all nationalities, including candidates from African countries such as Zimbabwe, provided they demonstrate a clear and sustained interest in Middle East and North Africa studies. Eligible candidates must hold at least a Bachelor degree or equivalent, and the programme specifically targets graduate students and early-career scholars looking to strengthen their academic profiles. Applicants are required to be proficient in English, while knowledge of Arabic is considered an advantage but remains optional. Additionally, fellows must be willing to actively participate in scheduled sessions and collaborative tasks.

What you get

Selected participants receive a one-year research affiliation with the Social Sciences Lab MENA, with potential opportunities to continue engaging through the Lab Community. Fellows gain access to tailored research training, mentorship and supervision from experienced scholars, research resources and data, and participation in collaborative research projects and thematic research groups. The programme also provides publication support, guidance in academic publishing, professional development workshops, and exposure to international funding, mobility, and academic exchange opportunities through European Union and Estonian programmes such as Erasmus and Marie Skłodowska Curie Actions.

How to apply

Interested candidates must complete the official online application form provided by the Social Sciences Lab MENA. Applicants are required to submit accurate information detailing their academic background, research interests, and motivation for joining the fellowship. The selection process involves shortlisting candidates, after which shortlisted individuals are invited to attend an interview to discuss their applications and potential contributions to the programme.