Deadline: 31-Jan-2026
The SVRI fellowships support early-career researchers in LMICs focusing on the intersection of VAW and VAC. The initiative strengthens locally led research, develops leadership skills, and promotes international collaboration among feminist and equity-driven scholars.
Why It Matters
-
Locally Led Research: Ensures studies are relevant and contextually informed.
-
Evidence-Based Interventions: Supports policy and program development rooted in local data.
-
Leadership Development: Equips emerging scholars with tools for impactful research and advocacy.
-
Global Networking: Builds connections across regions for knowledge sharing and collaboration.
Who Is Eligible?
-
Nationals of LMICs enrolled full-time at an accredited in-person institution for doctoral applicants.
-
Conducting research focused on intersections of VAW and VAC.
-
Doctoral candidates must have an institutionally approved or defended dissertation proposal.
-
Preference is given to applicants from underrepresented regions or groups and those committed to advancing the rights and wellbeing of women and children.
Fellowship Types and Funding
-
Doctoral Fellowship:
-
Duration: Up to 24 months
-
Maximum funding: USD 17,000
-
Covers research activities, fieldwork, travel, software, publication fees, and academic site visits
-
-
Postdoctoral Fellowship:
-
Duration: Up to 24 months
-
Maximum funding: USD 20,500
-
Supports advanced research, capacity building, networking, and dissemination of results
-
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit through Proposal Central:
-
Career objectives and community impact statement
-
Research proposal including:
-
Abstract and background
-
Innovation and contribution
-
Research aim and objectives
-
Research methods and data management plan
-
24-month timeline
-
Budget within fellowship limits
-
Ethical considerations
-
-
Institutional verification and academic transcripts
-
Two reference letters
Shortlisted candidates will participate in a panel interview.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step
-
Register on Proposal Central if a first-time user.
-
Complete the online application form following SVRI guidelines.
-
Upload all required documents, including institutional verification, transcripts, and references.
-
Submit a detailed research proposal outlining objectives, methodology, timeline, and budget.
-
Ensure submission before the deadline.
-
Shortlisted applicants will be contacted for an interview.
Tips for a Strong Application
-
Align research explicitly with VAW and VAC intersections.
-
Emphasize community impact and local relevance.
-
Demonstrate innovation and contribution to knowledge in LMIC contexts.
-
Submit early to avoid technical issues.
-
Follow SVRI formatting guidelines closely.
FAQ
1. Who can apply for the SVRI fellowship?
Early-career researchers from LMICs focusing on VAW and VAC intersections. Doctoral applicants must have an approved dissertation proposal.
2. What are the fellowship types and funding?
Doctoral: up to USD 17,000 for 24 months. Postdoctoral: up to USD 20,500 for 24 months. Funding supports research activities, travel, software, and dissemination.
3. Can fellowship funds be used for travel?
Yes, for justified data collection, conferences, or academic site visits.
4. How long are the fellowships?
Fellowships last up to 24 months.
5. Are ethical approvals required?
Yes, proposals must address ethical considerations following local and international research standards.
6. Is online submission mandatory?
Yes, through Proposal Central. Late or alternate submissions are not considered.
7. Are underrepresented groups prioritized?
Yes, applicants from underrepresented regions or groups committed to women’s and children’s rights are preferred.
Conclusion
SVRI fellowships provide early-career researchers in LMICs with the opportunity to lead locally relevant studies on VAW and VAC. Fellows receive financial support, mentorship, and networking opportunities to strengthen research capacity, contribute to evidence-based interventions, and promote the wellbeing of women and children globally.
For more information, visit SVRI.









































