The Africa Institute Sharjah

Applications are now open for the UAE Africa Institute Fellowships 2027 in the United Arab Emirates. Hosted by The Africa Institute at Global Studies University, Sharjah, this prestigious fellowship offers fully funded residential research opportunities for senior academics, postdoctoral researchers, independent scholars, authors, and public intellectuals from around the world.

The fellowship supports outstanding research in African Studies, African Diaspora Studies, Humanities, Social Sciences, Literature, Visual Culture, Cultural Studies, and related disciplines. Participants will work in an internationally recognized research environment, collaborate with leading scholars, and contribute to innovative academic projects while conducting independent research in the UAE.

If you are seeking a prestigious research fellowship in the UAE for international scholars, this program provides an excellent opportunity to advance your academic career.

Fellowship Overview

Fellowship Categories

Senior Fellowships

The following senior fellowship opportunities are available:

• Toni Morrison Senior Fellowship in African Diaspora Literature and Cultural Studies
• Ali A. Mazrui Senior Fellowship in Global African Studies

Duration: September 2027 – June 2028

Postdoctoral Fellowships

Available postdoctoral fellowships include:

• Okwui Enwezor Postdoctoral Fellowship in Visual Culture, Performance Studies and Critical Humanities
• Fatema Mernissi Postdoctoral Fellowship in Social and Cultural Studies

Duration: September 2027 – June 2029

Available Research Fields

Applicants may conduct research in a wide range of disciplines, including:

• African Studies
• African Diaspora Studies
• Global African Studies
• Literature
• Cultural Studies
• Critical Theory
• Visual Culture
• Performance Studies
• Art History
• Curatorial Studies
• Gender Studies
• Feminist Studies
• Sociology
• Anthropology
• Political Science
• Social Sciences
• Humanities
• International Studies
• Religion and Society
• Black Intellectual Traditions

Benefits of the UAE Africa Institute Fellowships 2027

Selected fellows will receive a residential research appointment at The Africa Institute along with access to world-class academic resources.

Benefits include:

• Fully funded residential research opportunity
• Access to research facilities and specialized academic resources
• Collaboration with internationally recognized scholars
• Participation in seminars, workshops, and academic lectures
• Professional networking opportunities
• Dedicated time to complete independent research
• Opportunities to contribute to international publications and scholarly discussions

Applicants should review the official fellowship guidelines for complete information regarding salary, accommodation, travel support, and additional financial benefits.

Eligible Nationalities

The fellowship welcomes applications from:

• Applicants of all nationalities
• Researchers from every country worldwide

There are no nationality restrictions.

Eligibility Criteria

Senior Fellowship

Applicants must:

• Hold the position of Associate Professor, Full Professor, or an equivalent senior academic role.
• Independent authors and recognized public intellectuals are also eligible.
• Demonstrate an outstanding record of research and academic publications.

Postdoctoral Fellowship

Applicants must:

• Hold a PhD awarded within five years before the fellowship begins.
• Demonstrate strong academic and research achievements.
• Be available to undertake full-time residential research in Sharjah, UAE.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare the following documents:

• Research abstract (maximum 300 words)
• Research proposal (1,000–2,000 words)
• Optional one-page bibliography
• Two writing samples
• Letter of interest
• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Contact details of three academic or professional referees

Ensure all documents are complete before submitting your application.

How to Apply

Follow these steps to apply for the UAE Africa Institute Fellowships 2027:

1. Select the fellowship category that matches your qualifications.
2. Prepare your research proposal and supporting documents.
3. Complete the online application through the official fellowship portal.
4. Upload all required documents.
5. Review your application carefully before submission.
6. Submit your application before the closing date.

Applicants are encouraged to begin preparing their proposals early, as the application process is comprehensive.

Fellowship Duration

Senior Fellowships

September 2027 – June 2028

Postdoctoral Fellowships

September 2027 – June 2029

Why Apply for the UAE Africa Institute Fellowships?

The UAE Africa Institute Fellowships are among the leading international research fellowship programs in the Middle East. Fellows gain access to a globally respected research institute, collaborate with distinguished academics, and develop high-impact research in African and African diaspora studies.

The program also provides valuable opportunities to publish scholarly work, build international collaborations, and expand professional networks while living and conducting research in the United Arab Emirates.

Application Deadline

The last date to apply for the UAE Africa Institute Fellowships 2027 is 30 September 2026. Interested applicants should submit their complete applications before the deadline.