Call for Applications – USF International Fellowships 2026

Overview

The Urban Studies Foundation (USF) invites applications for its International Fellowships supporting urban scholars from the Global South. These fellowships provide funding for a visiting sabbatical period at a host university of the candidate’s choice, enabling scholars to write up existing research findings into publishable outputs such as articles, book chapters, or books.

The program advances USF’s mission to strengthen global urban studies, foster collaboration, and elevate diverse perspectives from the Global South.

Fellowship Details

• Duration: 3–9 months
• Funding: Covers accommodation, subsistence, return travel, and some research costs
• Outputs: Academic publications based on completed primary data collection and analysis
• Mentorship: Fellows must be guided by a senior urban scholar at their chosen host institution
• Start Date: Fellowships must begin no earlier than 4 months and no later than 14 months after the application deadline

Eligibility

Applicants must:

• Be early‑ to mid‑career urban scholars with a PhD awarded within the last 10 years.
• Be nationals of countries on the OECD DAC list of ODA recipients.
• Be affiliated with a research organization in one of these countries.
• Have completed primary data collection and analysis, ready to produce publishable outputs.
• Propose research that contributes to urban studies themes such as climate, governance, housing, migration, mobility, sustainability, public health, and technology.

Note: Individuals based in high‑income territories are not eligible.

Application Requirements

Applications must include:

• Applicant information (career statement, proof of nationality, referees).
• Fellowship details (dates, host institution, mentorship arrangements).
• Budget with evidence for items above GBP 500.
• Research proposal outlining outputs, rationale for host institution, and mentor’s role.
• Applicant CV (max 3 pages).
• Mentor CV (max 3 pages).
• Mentor’s supporting letter (max 2 pages).

Applicants must also complete an anonymous Equality & Diversity monitoring survey after submission.

Timeline

• Deadline: 17 June 2026 (6 PM IST)
• Decisions: Within 12 weeks of deadline
• Implementation: Fellowships begin between October 2026 and August 2027

Contact

For questions: grants@urbanstudiesfoundation.org Further details: USF Awards – International Fellowships

Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement by Agri‑web. Interested applicants are encouraged to consult the official USF portal for complete details and verified application instructions. Applicants are also strongly encouraged to exercise due diligence before submitting any personal or sensitive information.