Chatham House Mo Ibrahim Foundation Academy Fellowship 2025 For African Researchers (Fully Funded To London)

Ready to take your career to the next level in global affairs? Apply for the fully funded Mo Ibrahim Academy Fellowship. Apply below: 

When is the Application Deadline:

The application deadline is 12am GMT on Wednesday 19 March 2025.

Tell Me About The Award:

This fellowship is a joint initiative with the Mo Ibrahim Foundation. It offers candidates at the early-to-mid-stage of their career the opportunity to spend ten months at Chatham House working on an individual research project of their choosing.

Fellows take part in the core work of the Institute, developing their skills through the leadership programme, and furthering their professional network in the field of international affairs.

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Which Fields are Eligible?

All fields 

Type:

Fellowship 

Who can Apply?

The eligibility criteria includes:

• The fellowship is open to citizens of any African country.
• Applications are also accepted from applicants holding dual nationality which includes any African country.
• Applicants must hold a completed BA degree or equivalent and have experience with conducting research.
• The ideal candidate should be at the early-to-mid-stage of their career and come from one of the following fields or work: academia, NGO, business, government departments, civil society or the media. All applicants should possess knowledge of, and an interest in, international affairs, their chosen area of research, and Chatham House’s mission and research.
• There are no age restrictions for applicants.
• Fellows are expected to work full-time towards their fellowship and therefore it is not possible to undertake a fellowship at the same time as pursuing work or studies.

How are Applicants Selected?

• Meet nationality criteria;
• Have experience conducting independent research and hold an undergraduate or postgraduate level qualification or have equivalent professional training or experience in a relevant area;
• Have the relevant background experience, including experience in the field of the proposed research, as demonstrated through a CV;
• Have proven leadership experience or potential;
• Show commitment to the Chatham House mission, goals and values and to identifying evidence-based solutions to some of the world’s most pressing international challenges;
• Be able to communicate how the fellowship will enable them to create positive impact, in line with the Chatham House mission and overarching purpose of Academy Fellowships as outlined above;
• Show motivation to undertake the fellowship, meet all fellowship deliverables, and take full advantage of the networks, events and opportunities offered at Chatham House; and
• Demonstrate proficiency in spoken English.

Required Documents:

Applicants are to submit the following documents:

• The applicant’s CV/résumé
• The names of two referees
• The applicant’s proposal for a research project based on the topic guidance

Which Countries Are Eligible?

African countries 

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Where will the Award be Taken?

Chatham House, London with hybrid working also possible.

How Many Awards?

Not specified

What is the Benefit of the Award?

Also, academy Fellows receive a monthly stipend of £2,565 for London living expenses to cover accommodation, utilities, food and transport.

Chatham House also covers:

• Relocation costs: travel, accommodation support and visa fees. If required, Chatham House will sponsor a fellow’s visa (T5: Temporary Work – Government Authorised Exchange);
• UK Immigration Health Surcharge (excluding dental/optical care and prescriptions); and
• Research expenses, relating to field work, outreach, events and publications.

Following the successful completion of their fellowship alumni benefit from access to:

• The Academy faculty and alumni; and 
• Five-year Chatham House membership.

How Long Will the Award Last?

10 months (October 2025 and July 2026.)

How to Apply:

• Stage one: complete the application. Once the submission period ends, all applications are reviewed and shortlisted by our selection committee.
• Stage two: shortlisted applicants are invited to an interview via Zoom. The interviews are carried out by a member of senior management at Chatham House and relevant programme representatives. After this round, fellows are selected and notified via email.

Visit the official application webpage to begin.