Call for Research Fellows: Leveraging Artificial Intelligence for Climate Resilience Solutions in Africa

To support capacity-building and research collaboration, the project is launching a Research Fellowship Program for early- to mid-career researchers, policymakers, and practitioners. This initiative aims to nurture a new generation of African scholars and innovators working at the intersection of AI and climate resilience.

Through the fellowship, selected individuals will conduct applied research or policy-oriented projects, actively participate in project activities, and contribute to knowledge co-creation. They will also strengthen South-South collaboration and interdisciplinary learning while amplifying African perspectives in global AI and climate discussions.

Objectives

• Deepen understanding of AI’s application in climate resilience across diverse African contexts.
• Strengthen early-career researchers’ capacity to apply mathematical sciences and AI for climate action.
• Build a network of African researchers and policymakers skilled in AI and climate resilience.
• Foster institutional partnerships for AI-driven climate solutions.
• Produce case studies, policy briefs, and knowledge resources that inform policy and practice.
• Provide a platform for research dissemination through ARIN, the University of Nairobi, and IDRC-supported forums.

Thematic Areas

• Fellows will be hosted within the ARIN network or partner institutions and supported to undertake research or policy-oriented projects aligned with the following thematic areas:
  • AI for early warning systems and disaster risk reduction
  • AI in climate-smart agriculture and food systems
  • Nature-based solutions and AI-enabled ecosystem monitoring iv. AI and urban resilience (e.g., heat islands, air quality)
  • Governance and ethics of AI in climate decision-making
  • Gender, youth, and inclusivity in AI-climate solutions
  • Capacity needs and policy pathways for AI uptake in climate sectors
• In addition to academic research, the fellowship will support policy-oriented projects that explore AI’s role in climate governance, planning, or service delivery, particularly in areas such as:
  • Designing regulatory or ethical frameworks for AI in climate data management
  • Piloting AI applications in national or subnational climate adaptation programs
  • Integrating AI into national climate change strategies, policies, or monitoring systems

Duration

• Duration: 6–9 months

Fellowship Structure

• E-Learning Approach
• Writing and Publishing Sessions
• Mentorship and Exchange Program
• Monthly Webinars and Case Study Simulations
• AI for Climate Resilience Academy
• Small Grants and Case Studies on AI for Climate Resilience

Expected Outputs

• Fellows are expected to produce:
  • A research report or peer-reviewed publication.
  • One policy brief or blog post summarizing findings.
  • Participation in at least one regional workshop or knowledge dissemination forum.

Eligibility Criteria

• The fellowship is open to postgraduate students, researchers, and policymakers working in relevant fields. The first phase aims to recruit 100 fellows, who will undergo e-learning before a selected number advance to in-person training, small grant opportunities, and internships.
• Eligible applicants must meet the following criteria:
  • Hold a postgraduate qualification (Masters or PhD) or substantial experience in policy or program implementation related to climate change, environmental governance, or digital technologies.
  • Demonstrate a strong interest or mandate in shaping or applying AI solutions for climate resilience, particularly within African contexts.
  • Exhibit Strong analytical, writing, and communication skills.
  • Be affiliated with a recognized research, academic, governmental, or policy institution in Africa.
  • Commit to contributing to interdisciplinary knowledge generation and policy dialogues.

Application Requirements

• Applicants are invited to submit the following documents:
  • A letter of motivation explaining how their qualifications align with the fellowship.
  • A 2-page concept note outlining their proposed research or policy project, relevance to the thematic areas, and expected contribution.
  • CV (maximum 3 pages).
  • A letter of support from a host institution or supervisor.

For more information, visit ARIN.