Deadline: 11-Jan-2026

The CLIFF-GRADS Programme offers PhD students from developing countries a funded 4–6 month international research stay focused on greenhouse gas measurement, modelling, mitigation and carbon storage in agricultural systems. Selected students receive a $14,000 USD grant and must begin their research stay before the end of 2026. This programme strengthens scientific capacity in climate-smart agriculture and supports emerging researchers working on food security and climate mitigation.

Overview

The CLIFF-GRADS Programme provides short-term scientific training for PhD students from developing countries who are researching climate change, agricultural sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions. It offers hands-on international experience with host institutions working on climate-smart agriculture and food security.

What the Programme Supports

The programme focuses on applied research related to:

• Measurement of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions

• Modelling and quantification of GHG emissions

• Mitigation strategies for reducing emissions

• Carbon storage in agricultural systems

• Climate-smart agriculture in developing countries

These themes are central to global efforts to reduce agricultural emissions and enhance sustainable food systems.

Grant Amount and Duration

• Grant Value: $14,000 USD per student

• Research Stay: Minimum 4 months, maximum 6 months

• Start Date: Research stays must begin before the end of 2026

• Extension: Possible only through additional external funding and shared agreement between student and supervisor

Why This Programme Matters

CLIFF-GRADS helps build the next generation of climate researchers in developing countries by:

• Strengthening scientific and technical skills

• Providing exposure to international research settings

• Supporting contributions to climate mitigation and adaptation

• Enhancing research outputs related to agriculture and food security

For many students, this programme opens pathways into global research networks and climate science careers.

Who Is Eligible?

Applicants must meet all of the following:

Eligible Candidates

• Citizens of a developing country

• Currently enrolled in a PhD programme at a university located in a developing country

• Conducting research related to GHG emissions or carbon storage in agriculture

• Have not previously received a CLIFF-GRADS grant

Academic Requirements

• Active PhD enrolment

• Research aligned with climate change mitigation, agricultural sustainability or related fields

How to Apply

(General structured process; follow official call guidelines.)

1. Review Available Research Opportunities

The programme typically publishes a list of available research placements with host institutions.

2. Prepare Your Application Materials

Common requirements include:

• CV

• Motivation letter describing your research interests

• Proof of PhD enrolment

• Supervisor approval letter

• Research proposal aligned with CLIFF-GRADS themes

• Passport copy (if required)

3. Submit the Application

Applications are submitted through the platform or email specified in the call.

4. Selection and Notification

Applications are assessed based on:

• Relevance of research topic

• Academic potential

• Alignment with host institution requirements

• Candidate’s ability to contribute to climate research in their country

5. Begin the Research Stay

Successful candidates coordinate with their host institute to finalize:

• Travel dates

• Research plan

• Logistics

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting a proposal unrelated to GHG emissions or carbon storage

• Applying without supervisor approval

• Not demonstrating clear relevance to developing-country agricultural systems

• Exceeding or ignoring duration requirements (4–6 months)

• Applying despite having received a CLIFF-GRADS grant before

FAQs

1. Can Master’s students apply?

No. Only PhD students enrolled at universities in developing countries are eligible.

2. Can the research stay exceed 6 months?

Yes, but only with additional funding and mutual agreement. The grant covers up to 6 months.

3. Can I choose my host institution?

You must apply to one of the listed research opportunities published in the call.

4. Is previous international experience required?

No. First-time international researchers are welcome.

5. What expenses does the $14,000 cover?

The grant typically supports travel, living costs and research-related expenses during the stay.

6. Can I apply if my country is middle-income?

Yes, as long as it is classified as a developing country at the time of application.

7. Can I apply again if I was previously rejected?

Yes, as long as you have not previously received a CLIFF-GRADS grant.

Conclusion

The CLIFF-GRADS Programme is a valuable opportunity for PhD candidates in developing countries to strengthen their scientific expertise in climate research, particularly around greenhouse gas emissions and carbon storage in agriculture. With a $14,000 grant and international research exposure, it empowers emerging scholars to contribute meaningfully to climate-smart agriculture and global climate mitigation efforts.

For more information, visit GRA.