The Social Sciences Lab – MENA, a research institute registered in Estonia, is accepting applications for the MENA Junior Fellowship 2027 (4th Edition). The fellowship gives emerging scholars interested in Middle East and North Africa (MENA) studies a one-year research affiliation, with training, mentorship, publishing support and links to EU funding schemes such as Erasmus+ and Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions.
Deadline: 30 November 2026 (as reported). All nationalities can apply, including Africans; North African scholars and anyone researching Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco or Sudan may find it especially useful.
Key Details
- Host: Social Sciences Lab – MENA (Estonia)
- Edition: MENA Junior Fellowship 2027, 4th Edition
- Duration: one-year research affiliation, with continued access to the Lab Community
- Open to: all nationalities with a bachelor’s degree or higher
- Selection: application form, then interview for shortlisted candidates
- Deadline: 30 November 2026
Benefits
- a one-year research affiliation with the Social Sciences Lab – MENA, extendable through its Lab Community
- tailored research training, mentorship and supervision by experienced scholars
- access to research data, collaborative projects and publication opportunities
- guidance on academic publishing
- membership of thematic research groups and professional development workshops
- help engaging with EU and Estonian funding, mobility and exchange schemes, including Erasmus+ and MSCA
Note: the fellowship is a research affiliation and training programme. No stipend or travel funding is mentioned on the official page.
Eligibility
- all nationalities welcome
- a clear and sustained interest in MENA studies
- at least a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
- a graduate or early-career scholar looking to strengthen your academic profile
- good English; Arabic is an asset but not required
- commitment to take part in scheduled sessions and group tasks
How to Apply
- Read the details on the official MENA Junior Fellowship page.
- Complete the MENA Junior Fellowship 2027 (4th Edition) application form (about 15 minutes).
- Clearly explain your academic background, research interests and why you want to join.
- Submit before 30 November 2026. Shortlisted applicants are invited to an interview.
Questions: email [email protected].
Tips
- Name a specific research topic, such as migration, governance, climate or gender in a MENA country, rather than a broad interest.
- Mention any thesis, publication or fieldwork linked to the region.
- Explain how you’ll use the affiliation, for example to prepare an MSCA or PhD application.
- Prepare for the interview by summarising your research idea in two minutes.
Programme details are from the official Lab page and application form; the deadline is as reported by MSME Africa. The form doesn’t show a closing date, so apply early.
