CLIFF-GRADS Fellowship 2026: $14,000 Funding Opportunity for PhD Researchers in Agriculture & Climate Change

The Global Research Alliance (GRA) has opened applications for the CLIFF-GRADS Fellowship Programme 2026. This is a high-value funding opportunity designed specifically for PhD students from developing countries who are conducting research on climate change mitigation in agriculture.

Selected fellows will receive a grant of $14,000 USD to support a short-term scientific training stay (4–6 months) at an international host institution. If you are researching greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, carbon storage, or sustainable food systems, this fellowship can connect you with global experts and advanced facilities. The deadline to apply is 11 January 2026.

Fellowship Overview & Key Details

Research Focus Areas

The programme supports applied research that helps build climate-smart agricultural systems. Your PhD topic should align with one of the following themes:

• GHG Measurement: Quantification of greenhouse gas emissions in agricultural systems.
• Modelling: Data modeling of emissions and mitigation scenarios.
• Mitigation Strategies: Developing methods to reduce agricultural emissions.
• Carbon Storage: Researching carbon sequestration in soils and farming systems.

Eligibility Criteria

This fellowship is strictly for doctoral candidates. To qualify, you must meet all of the following requirements:

• Citizenship: You must be a citizen of a developing country.
• Enrollment: You must be currently enrolled in a PhD programme at a university located in a developing country. (Master’s students are not eligible).
• Research Topic: Your current research must be related to GHG emissions or carbon storage in agriculture.
• History: You must not have previously received a CLIFF-GRADS grant.

Fellowship Benefits

The $14,000 USD grant is intended to cover all expenses related to your research stay, including: Travel & Living: Roundtrip airfare, accommodation, and daily living costs. Research Costs: Expenses directly related to your training or lab work at the host institution. Network: Access to a global network of climate scientists and potential future collaborators.

How to Apply

The application process involves selecting a host institution from the available list. Follow these steps:

1. Review Opportunities: Check the list of available research placements published in the call.
2. Prepare Documents: You will need a CV, a Motivation Letter, Proof of PhD Enrollment, a Supervisor Approval Letter, and a Research Proposal.
3. Submit: Send your complete application package via the specified email or platform before the deadline.

Important Dates

• Application Deadline: 11 January 2026.
• Research Start Date: Research stays must begin before the end of 2026.

Official Application Link: Click Here to Apply for CLIFF-GRADS Fellowship