ESA African Research Fellowships 2026: Eligibility, Benefits & How to Apply
Applications are now open for the ESA African Research Fellowships 2026. This fully funded program invites African researchers to spend one year at ESA’s ESRIN centre in Frascati, Italy. The deadline is 29 April 2026, and ESA will select four fellows to start in October 2026. This article covers eligibility requirements, key benefits, and the full application process to help interested researchers prepare.
The ESA African Research Fellowships 2026 form part of ESA’s EO AFRICA initiative. This program partners with the African Space Agency (AfSA) and the African Union Commission (AUC). It aims to empower the next generation of African Earth observation leaders. Since its launch in 2021, it has supported ten fellows who advanced their work at ESA. Selected researchers will collaborate directly with ESA experts over one year.
- ESA leads the fellowship and provides hosting at ESRIN.
- AfSA, an organ of the African Union, supports regional space efforts.
- AUC coordinates to align with continental goals.
Fellows must propose a one-year research and development project. The project should focus on EO AFRICA thematic priority areas. It needs to use Earth observation satellite data and advanced analytical methods. Research integrates into the EO AFRICA R&D Initiative. Fellows gain key resources to succeed.
- ESA cloud computing, such as the EO Africa Innovation Lab and Space-HPC, for collaboration with European scientists.
- EO AFRICA Space Academy and Digital Campus, offering training, tools, and expertise.
- Professional network that stresses open research and reproducible science.
Eligible candidates are African researchers. They need a PhD or a Master’s degree. They must also show proven research experience in satellite Earth observation, remote sensing, or a related field. The program seeks those who turn data into sustainable solutions.
- PhD or Master’s degree.
- Substantial experience in Earth observation or remote sensing.
- African nationality.
Applicants submit a complete package of documents. The research proposal uses the official template and stays under 10 pages. Applications without the template will not be considered. A clear CV lists recent publications.
- Research proposal (max 10 pages, official ARF template).
- Curriculum vitae (max 3 pages, including publications).
- Copy of valid ID (passport preferred).
- Scan of highest diploma (PhD or Master’s).
- Two confidential reference letters.
The application follows a clear timeline. Researchers can check key dates at a glance.
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Open call | 18 March 2026 |
| Submission deadline | 29 April 2026 |
| Communication of acceptance | July 2026 |
| Start in Frascati | October 2026 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the ESA African Research Fellowships 2026?
African nationals with a PhD or Master’s degree and proven experience in Earth observation, remote sensing, or related fields.
What is the application deadline?
The submission deadline is 29 April 2026.
What documents do I need to submit?
You need a research proposal (max 10 pages on official template), CV (max 3 pages), valid ID, highest diploma scan, and two confidential reference letters.
What benefits do fellows receive?
Fellows get one year at ESRIN, access to ESA cloud computing, EO AFRICA training resources, and collaboration with experts.