Call for Research Fellows: Advancing Climate Resilience with Artificial Intelligence in Africa – Opportunities for Youth
Call for Research Fellows: Advancing Climate Resilience with Artificial Intelligence in Africa – Opportunities for Youth
Call for Research Fellows: Advancing Climate Resilience with Artificial Intelligence in Africa – Opportunities for Youth. The African Research and Impact Network (ARIN), in partnership with the University of Nairobi, is accepting applications for a new research fellowship focused on leveraging artificial intelligence for climate resilience in Africa. Early-career researchers and policymakers interested in AI, climate science, and sustainable development are encouraged to apply by June 30, 2025.
Table of Contents
Background & Job Description
As climate change continues to impact vulnerable communities and ecosystems across Africa, innovative approaches to sustainability and adaptation are urgently needed. One promising avenue is the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to support climate resilience efforts. Recognizing this opportunity, the African Research and Impact Network (ARIN), in collaboration with the University of Nairobi (UoN), has launched a competitive research fellowship initiative aimed at empowering a new generation of researchers and practitioners.
This project, titled Leveraging Artificial Intelligence for Climate Resilience Solutions in Africa, is designed to support early-career professionals who can contribute to the development, testing, and scaling of AI-based tools for climate adaptation and sustainability. Fellows will benefit from technical mentorship, collaborative learning, and access to both academic and practitioner networks across Africa and globally.
The initiative is not limited to computer scientists or AI specialists. It invites applicants from a broad spectrum of disciplines such as environmental science, climate policy, data science, community engagement, and governance. The fellowship serves as a platform to integrate local knowledge with emerging technology and encourages interdisciplinary approaches to tackle one of Africa’s most pressing challenges.
Fellows selected for the program will become part of a continent-wide cohort engaged in active co-creation, research translation, and solution-oriented collaboration in climate resilience. They will also gain exposure to cross-sectoral dialogues involving academia, civil society, private sector, and policymakers.
Tasks
The research fellows will take on a variety of roles and responsibilities under the program, including:
Research and Solution Co-Creation
- Conduct empirical research focused on the intersection of artificial intelligence and climate resilience.
- Collaborate with other fellows, mentors, and stakeholders to co-create actionable climate solutions.
- Develop use cases for AI-driven interventions tailored to regional or national climate challenges.
Technical and Policy Engagement
- Participate in capacity-building workshops, technical webinars, and cross-learning exchanges.
- Engage with climate policymakers to translate scientific findings into practical policy recommendations.
- Contribute to the design and testing of digital tools that support climate forecasting, adaptation, and mitigation.
Communication and Knowledge Sharing
- Disseminate findings through peer-reviewed journals, policy briefs, conference presentations, and digital platforms.
- Support the development of case studies and learning materials for wider outreach and adoption of project outcomes.
- Document progress and challenges in implementing AI-related climate initiatives within the fellowship.
Fellowship Participation and Community Building
- Attend regular cohort meetings, virtual sessions, and network events.
- Provide peer support to fellow participants and contribute to a shared learning environment.
- Act as an ambassador of responsible and inclusive AI for development across Africa.
Qualifications
Education and Certification
- A minimum of a bachelor’s degree is required, though applicants with postgraduate qualifications (Master’s or PhD) are strongly encouraged.
- Areas of study may include artificial intelligence, machine learning, climate change, data science, environmental policy, sustainability, or a related field.
Experience
- This opportunity targets early-career researchers and policy practitioners. Recent graduates or those with 2–5 years of experience are particularly encouraged to apply.
- Prior involvement in AI, data science, or climate-focused projects is desirable but not mandatory.
- Demonstrated interest in interdisciplinary collaboration, especially across technical and policy domains, will be considered an asset.
Additional Information
Eligibility
- Applicants must be nationals of African countries.
- Candidates must demonstrate a commitment to climate resilience or AI innovation in the African context.
- Those with experience in marginalized, indigenous, or underserved communities are particularly encouraged to apply.
Support and Benefits
- Fellows will receive technical mentorship and networking support.
- The program provides opportunities to publish, participate in regional workshops, and contribute to thought leadership in AI and climate.
- The fellowship does not specify a salary or stipend, but participants will gain access to institutional backing and global exposure.
Application Deadline
- The deadline for applications is 30 June 2025.
- Early applications are strongly encouraged as the selection process may be competitive.
How to Apply
Interested individuals must submit their application through the official channels of the African Research and Impact Network (ARIN). Details regarding submission documents and process are available on ARIN’s official website and communication platforms.
APPLY NOW TO JOIN THE RESEARCH FELLOWSHIP
If you are passionate about harnessing artificial intelligence to address climate challenges in Africa, this is your opportunity to make a meaningful impact. Apply now before the deadline on June 30, 2025.
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Disclaimer
This article is provided by a third-party platform for informational purposes only. We are not affiliated with ARIN, the University of Nairobi, the UN, or any related agency. Always verify details through the official vacancy source before applying.
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