Advancing Indigenous and Refugee Knowledge and Engagement on Migration in Africa – AIReKEMA Research Fellowship 2026

The Advancing Indigenous and Refugee Knowledge and Engagement on Migration in Africa (AIReKEMA) project, in partnership with Carleton University and strategic regional hubs across East, West, and Southern Africa, is inviting applications for its 2026 Research Fellowship program. AIReKEMA seeks to select twelve outstanding Research Fellows annually to engage in impactful, original research that strengthens the understanding of migration, refugee dynamics, border governance, and Indigenous knowledge in Africa. This fellowship provides an unparalleled opportunity for early-career researchers, postgraduate students, and community leaders to make tangible contributions to policy, peacebuilding, and sustainable solutions in border regions across the continent.

About the AIReKEMA Research Fellowship

AIReKEMA is designed to center traditionally excluded knowledge and lived experiences in addressing the complex dynamics of migration in Africa. The fellowship empowers scholars to explore innovative ways that Indigenous communities and refugee-led initiatives contribute to managing migration flows and reducing border conflicts. Through this initiative, Research Fellows will have the chance to translate their findings into actionable insights that influence policymakers, regional organizations, and key stakeholders involved in border governance and migration policy.

Key Responsibilities of Research Fellows

Research Fellows are expected to engage in rigorous and original research that contributes to the understanding of Indigenous knowledge systems, local governance structures, and refugee-led initiatives. Specific responsibilities include:

• Designing and conducting research on migration management and border governance that incorporates Indigenous and refugee knowledge.
• Translating research findings into practical solutions that regional organizations and policymakers can adopt to reduce conflict and foster cooperation.
• Participating in collaborative project activities with regional hubs and Carleton University, ensuring the research aligns with AIReKEMA’s objectives.
• Meeting research ethics requirements both at Carleton University and within the Fellow’s home institution or country.

Fellowship Details and Benefits

The fellowship is a 12-month, part-time appointment that provides comprehensive support to ensure the success of Fellows. Benefits include:

• A stipend of US$11,000 for the fellowship year.
• An additional US$1,800 fund for research-related expenses.
• Co-supervision by Carleton University faculty and faculty from regional hubs.
• Participation in project activities and access to Carleton University Library resources remotely.
• Support for completing research ethics clearance requirements in both Canada and the Fellow’s home country.

This structure allows Fellows not only to conduct research but also to develop professional networks, strengthen their academic credentials, and contribute to regionally significant migration solutions.

Eligibility Criteria

AIReKEMA invites applications from highly motivated candidates who demonstrate a strong commitment to research in migration and refugee issues. Candidates should:

• Be postgraduate students (MA or PhD) or early-career scholars/community leaders with proven experience in research or applied work related to migration, refugees, conflict resolution, Indigenous knowledge, or local governance.
• Have a history of engagement with policy or programmatic issues in border regions.
• Demonstrate a vision for how their research and fellowship experience will enhance their ability to contribute to innovative approaches to peacebuilding and migration management.
• Priority is given to members of Indigenous or refugee communities in East, West, or Southern Africa, and to candidates contributing to regional, gender, and other forms of diversity within the cohort.

Application Process

Interested applicants must submit the following materials to AIReKEMA@carleton.ca by June 1, 2026:

1. A cover letter outlining relevant experience and motivation for applying.
2. A Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing academic and professional achievements.
3. A research proposal (maximum three pages, single-spaced) that includes:
   • The specific research puzzle or problem to be addressed.
   • The significance of the research in relation to AIReKEMA’s goals.
   • A literature review highlighting the relationship between the proposed research and existing studies.
   • A clearly articulated research question.
   • A detailed methodology outlining how the research will be conducted.
   • A timeline for research completion by January 2027.
4. Names and contact information for three professional or academic references.

Selection Process

Applications are carefully reviewed by a Selection Committee, which includes representatives from Carleton University and the regional hub corresponding to the applicant’s focus area. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a Zoom interview by June 8, 2026, with final decisions communicated by June 22, 2026. The fellowship term will run from July 2026 to January 2027, providing ample time for meaningful research and engagement.

Why This Fellowship Matters

This Research Fellowship not only offers financial and academic support but also equips emerging scholars and leaders with the tools to drive change in migration governance. Fellows gain hands-on experience working across borders, developing research-informed solutions, and engaging with policymakers to foster peace and cooperation. The program emphasizes inclusivity and values the contributions of Indigenous and refugee scholars, ensuring that diverse perspectives shape the future of migration policy and border management in Africa.

This fellowship represents a unique opportunity to contribute to global knowledge, develop professional expertise, and positively impact migration outcomes and border communities in Africa.

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