Investing in African science: the JWO Research Grant opens its 2026 call for applications

The Jennifer Ward Oppenheimer Research Grant 2026 has opened its call for applications, inviting early-career African scientists to submit proposals advancing biodiversity and conservation research on the continent. Now in its eighth year, the grant represents one of the most significant dedicated funding opportunities for emerging African environmental researchers.

The grant at a glance

The JWO Research Grant provides USD 150,000 to a single recipient to undertake an independent research programme of up to three years. Eligible applicants must hold a PhD and have no more than seven years of post-doctoral research experience, excluding time taken for family responsibilities. Applicants must also demonstrate strong institutional affiliations with a credible African institution capable of managing grant funding, and their proposed research must be focused on or conducted in Africa.

Why this grant matters

Africa’s ecosystems play a central role in global climate regulation and biodiversity stability. Yet researchers based on the continent continue to face structural funding constraints that limit their capacity to conduct independent, long-term scientific inquiry. The JWO Research Grant was established in 2019 in memory of Jennifer Ward Oppenheimer, whose life reflected a deep commitment to education and environmental stewardship. Its purpose is direct: to invest in African scientists whose work addresses complex environmental challenges within the region.

Jonathan Oppenheimer, Executive Chairman of Oppenheimer Generations, described the rationale clearly: "The responsibility and opportunity to understand and protect [Africa’s biodiversity] must increasingly rest with scientists working on the continent."

Since its inception, the grant has supported research across a wide range of themes, including biodiversity thresholds, freshwater pollution, vector-borne disease dynamics, protected area resilience, and wildlife responses to climate change. In doing so, it has strengthened institutional networks across Africa and raised the visibility of African-led research within global environmental discourse.

Growing demand and a record-breaking 2025

The scale of interest in the grant reflects the depth of scientific talent across the continent. In 2025, the grant received a record 848 applications from 30 African countries. Dr Duncan MacFadyen, Research and Conservation Head at Oppenheimer Generations, noted that the programme looks forward to building on that momentum in 2026.

How to apply: key dates

The 2026 application process will unfold in two stages:

  • Applications close: 1 May 2026
  • Concept note review: May 2026
  • Full proposal submissions: June 2026
  • Final interviews: August 2026
  • Recipient notified: 28 August 2026
  • Formal award ceremony: Oppenheimer Research Conference, 8 October 2026

Full eligibility criteria and application guidelines are available on the JWO Research Grant website.

Apply now

If you are an early-career African scientist with a research proposal that addresses biodiversity or conservation challenges on the continent, this is one of the most significant opportunities available to you. Applications close on 1 May 2026.

Visit the JWO Research Grant website to access the full eligibility criteria and submit your application.