Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Deadline: January 11, 2026
The CLIFF-GRADS Fellowship Programme 2026 offers an exceptional fully funded opportunity for PhD students from developing countries to conduct cutting-edge research on climate-smart agriculture and related topics. The program, coordinated by the CGIAR Research Program on Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security (CCAFS), supports early-career researchers in gaining international experience, building research networks, and contributing to solutions to global climate challenges.
The fellowship provides PhD students with a platform to work on short-term research projects hosted by CGIAR centres worldwide. By participating, fellows gain exposure to international research environments, advanced methodologies, and interdisciplinary collaboration, thereby strengthening their academic and professional profiles.
Benefits
Selected CLIFF-GRADS fellows receive:
- Fully funded research placement at a CGIAR centre or partner institution
- Travel costs and accommodation for the duration of the research stay
- Monthly living stipend to cover day-to-day expenses
- Mentorship from experienced CGIAR scientists and researchers
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities, laboratories, and data resources
- Opportunity to publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals or policy briefs
- Networking with global climate-smart agriculture researchers and experts
The program equips PhD students with skills and experiences that enhance employability and impact in climate-smart agriculture research.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must generally:
- Be enrolled in a PhD program in a developing country
- Conduct research related to climate change, agriculture, food security, or related fields
- Demonstrate academic excellence and research potential
- Have support from their home institution supervisor
- Be available for a 3–6 month research placement at a CGIAR centre or partner institution
- Possess strong communication and teamwork skills
Application Process and Documents Required
Applicants must complete the CLIFF-GRADS Round 7 online application form and submit the following necessary documentation merged into a single PDF file. Applications must be in English; those in any other language will not be accepted.
a. 1 page motivation letter (described below)
b. 1-page academic curriculum vitae (CV / Resume) that includes your contact details
c. A letter of support from your PhD supervisor at your current university
Selection process
Successful applicants will demonstrate the relevance of their PhD research for the project for which they are applying. Successful applicants will be matched with a project and notified by email by Tuesday, 21 April 2026.
Applicants are selected based on three criteria:
- Overall level of research experience,
- Relevance of PhD thesis topic or other research experience to CLIFF-GRADS
objectives, and - The clarity of description of how the CLIFF-GRADS experience will improve the students’
scientific capability and contribute to their career.
Deadline: Submit your application by 11th January 2026.
