The ARISE Project 2026 PhD Scholarships and Postdoctoral Fellowships in Artificial Intelligence (AI)

1.6K Application Deadline: 31 March 2026. Applications are now open for 2026 ARISE Project 2026 PhD Scholarships and Postdoctoral Fellowships in Artificial Intelligence. The African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS), through the ARISE (Advancing Responsible and Gender-Inclusive Artificial Intelligence Capacity in Africa’s Higher Education Ecosystem) project, invites applications for PhD scholarships in AI-related fields. The scholarships aim to strengthen Africa’s AI research capacity by supporting doctoral students conducting responsible, gender-inclusive AI research aligned with Africa’s development priorities. Ten (10) PhD students already registered in African higher education institutions will be supported, including opportunities to attend international AI conferences and workshops.

Eligibility Criteria

• Be African nationals or permanent residents in Africa with a strong commitment to Africa’s development through AI.
• Be enrolled in or accepted into a PhD programme at an accredited African higher education institution.
• Conduct research focused on responsible AI applications within ATPS thematic priority areas (e.g. agriculture, climate change, energy, health, education, digital economy, creative industries).
• Demonstrate attention to gender-responsiveness, ethical AI, equity, and inclusion.
• Show how their research addresses AI skills gaps across the continent.
• Have a strong academic record, including at least a Master’s degree, and relevant publications and/or patents

Application Process

• Submit a detailed research proposal (maximum 8 pages) outlining objectives, methodology, expected outcomes, impacts, and alignment with ARISE goals.
• Provide academic transcripts, CV, two recommendation letters (academic and professional), and proof of PhD enrolment or acceptance.
• Emphasise responsible and gender-inclusive AI approaches in the application.
• Submit applications through the ATPS online portal by 15 March 2026. Selection will follow a transparent, merit-based process that ensures equity, diversity, and gender inclusion.

POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWSHIPS IN AI-RELATED FIELDS

Introduction / Overview

ATPS, under the ARISE project, also invites applications for six (6) postdoctoral fellowships hosted in African institutions engaged in AI research and development. These fellowships are designed to enable postdoctoral researchers to deepen AI research and apply advanced AI tools to address Africa’s pressing societal challenges, including food insecurity, climate change, health, and environmental sustainability. Fellows will also be supported to participate in international AI conferences and workshops in Africa.

Eligibility Criteria

• Be African nationals or permanent residents in Africa.
• Hold a PhD in an AI-related field obtained within the last five years.
• Be hosted by a recognised African institution actively involved in AI research and development.
• Align their research with responsible, ethical, and gender-inclusive AI within ATPS thematic priority areas.
• Demonstrate a strong publication record and potential for high-impact research.
• Be fully available for the fellowship duration and willing to relocate if required.

Application Process

• Submit a detailed, approved postdoctoral research proposal (maximum 8 pages) outlining the project, work plan, outputs, impacts, and alignment with ARISE objectives.
• Provide a PhD certificate, transcripts, CV, publication list, two recommendation letters, and a formal letter of support and acceptance from the host institution.
• Highlight ethical AI and gender-responsiveness in the proposal.
• Apply via the ATPS online portal by 31 March 2026. Selection will be conducted through a transparent and equitable process to ensure responsible and inclusive AI capacity building across Africa For further inquiries, contact the ARISE Project Coordinator at info@atpsnet.org with a copy to executivedirector@atpsnet.org For More Information: Visit the Official Webpage of the ARISE Project 2026 PhD Scholarships and Postdoctoral Fellowships