African Research Fellowships: Call 2026

Shape the future of Earth Observation for Africa

The African Research Fellowship (ARF) programme, part of the EO AFRICA flagship initiative of the European Space Agency (ESA) in partnership with the African Union Commission (AUC) and its specialised agency, the African Space Agency (AfSA), empowers the next generation of African EO leaders. Since its launch in 2021, ten outstanding fellows have already advanced their research at ESA.

We are now seeking four passionate African researchers to join this dynamic network. Selected fellows will spend one year at ESA’s ESRIN centre in Frascati, Italy, collaborating directly with ESA experts. The fellowship period will begin in October 2026.

Your Mission

Conduct innovative, high-impact R&D that leverages massive satellite EO data streams, integrates in-situ measurements, and utilizes cutting-edge cloud computing and AI modelling. Your work will provide actionable solutions to Africa’s most critical challenges.

Research Themes

Applicants are invited to propose a 1-year R&D project focused on one of the EO AFRICA thematic priority areas, utilizing EO satellite data and advanced analytical methods.

Your research will be fully integrated into the EO AFRICA R&D Initiative. Fellows will gain access to:

• ESA supported cloud computing resources (e.g. EO Africa Innovation Lab, Space-HPC…) to facilitate collaboration with European scientists in implementing research ideas.
• The EO AFRICA Space Academy and Digital Campus, which offer dedicated training, scientific tools, and a wealth of expertise to support your project.
• A professional network that promotes open research practices and reproducible science.

Expected Impact

Fellows will contribute to a growing repository of African-led EO tools, support evidence-based policy, and strengthen Africa’s role in the global scientific community. The EO AFRICA Initiative fosters long-term leadership and deeper institutional collaboration between Africa and Europe.

Who Should Apply?

African researchers holding a PhD, or a Master’s degree with substantial proven research experience in satellite Earth Observation, satellite remote sensing, or a closely related field. We seek innovators driven to translate data into sustainable solutions.

Interested candidates must submit a complete application comprising:

• Research Proposal (with the official ARF template, max 10 pages -note: applications not using the provided template will be disregarded)
• Curriculum Vitae (maximum 3 pages) including a list of recent publications
• Copy of valid Identification document (preferably passport)
• Scan of the highest academic diploma (PhD or Master’s).
• Two (2) confidential letters of reference.

Please download the following zip file, which contains:

• Technical information on the general tasks covered by the proposal and logistical aspects
• Proposal submission template
• Privacy notice

Any questions relating to this Call must be sent, by e-mail to arf@esa.int, not later than one (1) week before the Closing Date.

SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION

Important Dates