UNESCO SCRS Research Continuity Grants for Africa 2026

UNESCO has opened a pilot call under its Science for Crisis Response and Solutions programme. The SCRS Research Continuity Grants for Africa help researchers restart or finish a clearly defined part of natural-science work that was interrupted by an armed conflict or a natural or biological hazard.

Who can apply

The call is for African nationals based at a recognised university or research institute in an African country. You need at least a Master's degree or an equivalent recognised research qualification, and your work must be in the natural sciences, including interdisciplinary projects with a substantial natural-science component. Your research must have been interrupted by a crisis within the previous three years, or still be materially affected by its consequences. Women scientists, researchers under 40 and researchers from least developed countries and small island developing states are particularly encouraged.

What the grant covers

Six institutional grants of up to USD 2,000 each will be awarded in this first call. The money can pay for consumables and small supplies, local fieldwork and research travel, data collection, processing or secure storage, minor equipment repair, and laboratory, publication or open-access costs. It does not cover salaries, honoraria, major equipment, construction or institutional overheads. Planned activities must be finished within 6 months.

Deadline and application

The deadline is 15 November 2026, 23:59 Paris time. Complete and sign the application form in English or French, then attach your CV, proof of your highest relevant qualification and a signed support letter from your host institution. Add any ethics, research or fieldwork authorisation your activities need, and confirm that the same costs are not funded from another source.