Deadline: 27-Mar-2026
The Korea Polar Research Institute (KOPRI) Fellowship Program 2026 offers early career polar scientists the chance to conduct research at KOPRI facilities in Asia, the Arctic, or Antarctica. Fellowships include funding for travel, accommodation, living expenses, and access to office or laboratory space, with a maximum duration of three months. Applications are open until March 27, 2026.
What is the KOPRI Fellowship Program?
The KOPRI Fellowship Program is designed to foster international research collaboration and provide emerging polar scientists with networking and research opportunities. Through this program, selected fellows gain access to KOPRI’s expanding infrastructure, including office and laboratory facilities, and work closely with KOPRI scientists on structured research projects.
Program Categories and Scope
The fellowship operates under three categories:
Asia Fellowship
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Open to early career scientists from Asian countries
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Focuses on collaborative research at KOPRI facilities
Arctic Fellowship
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Open to early career scientists from Arctic countries: Canada, Denmark (including Greenland and the Faroe Islands), Finland, Iceland, Norway, Russia, Sweden, United States
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Also open to researchers of Arctic Indigenous heritage at all career stages
Antarctic Fellowship
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Open to early career scientists from Chile or New Zealand
Fellowship Details
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Duration: Up to three months at KOPRI
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Funding Support:
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Round-trip airfare
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Living expenses
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Accommodation at KOPRI facilities
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Access to office and/or laboratory space arranged with cooperating KOPRI scientist
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Reporting Requirements: Monthly progress reports and a final report upon completion
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Award Announcement: April 2026 via email
Eligibility Criteria
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Early career scientists:
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Currently enrolled in a master’s or doctoral program
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OR within five years (2021–2026) of completing a master’s or doctoral degree
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Arctic Indigenous researchers: Undergraduate, master’s, doctoral students, or graduates
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Applicants must secure support from a KOPRI scientist before submission
How to Apply
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Identify a cooperating KOPRI scientist: Contact them to discuss your research proposal. The Office of Global Cooperation can assist if needed.
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Prepare your application package:
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Completed application form
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Detailed research proposal
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Home institute agreement
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Letter of recommendation (Asia category: must be from an AFoPS Representative or equivalent)
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Submit via email by March 27, 2026
Tips for Successful Applications
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Engage early with potential KOPRI scientists to refine your research proposal
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Ensure all documents are complete and signed
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Clearly align your research with KOPRI’s scientific priorities
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Check that your proposal meets category-specific eligibility
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply for the KOPRI Fellowship Program?
Early career scientists from eligible countries in Asia, the Arctic, or Antarctic regions, and researchers of Arctic Indigenous heritage.
2. How long does the fellowship last?
The maximum duration is three months at KOPRI facilities.
3. What expenses are covered?
The fellowship covers round-trip airfare, accommodation, living expenses, and access to office or lab space.
4. Do I need a KOPRI scientist’s support to apply?
Yes. Applicants must secure the support of a cooperating KOPRI scientist before submission.
5. What documents are required for submission?
Application form, research proposal, home institute agreement, and a letter of recommendation.
6. When is the application deadline?
All documents must be submitted by March 27, 2026.
7. When will fellowship awardees be notified?
Award announcements will be made via email in April 2026.
Conclusion
The KOPRI Fellowship Program 2026 offers a unique platform for early career polar scientists to advance their research, collaborate with experts, and gain access to world-class infrastructure in Asia, the Arctic, or Antarctica. By following the application guidelines and securing a cooperating KOPRI scientist, applicants can maximize their chances of being selected and contribute to global polar research initiatives.
For more information, visit KOPRI.