Deadline: 04-Sep-2026
The Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research is offering fellowships to support early-career researchers working in Antarctic science. The programme is designed to strengthen international collaboration, enhance scientific capacity, and support research aligned with Antarctic environmental and climate priorities.
Programme Objective
The main objective is to advance Antarctic scientific research by:
- Supporting early-career researchers in polar science
- Strengthening international scientific collaboration
- Enhancing capacity in Antarctic research institutions
- Encouraging interdisciplinary research in climate and biodiversity
- Promoting knowledge exchange between SCAR member countries
- Building long-term global research partnerships
Research Themes and Focus Areas
The fellowship supports research aligned with SCAR scientific priorities, including:
- Antarctic climate change and environmental systems
- Biodiversity and ecosystem research
- Field-based Antarctic scientific studies
- Human dimensions and social sciences in polar regions
- Technology and innovation in polar research
- International scientific cooperation and capacity building
- SCAR-endorsed Scientific Research Programmes
Fellowship Structure and Funding
- Number of awards: 4–5 fellowships (2026 cycle)
- Funding per award: Up to USD 15,000
- Duration: Based on approved research placement
Cost coverage structure:
- SCAR fellowship funds: Travel and research-related support
- Home institution: Covers domestic costs, including
- Domestic travel
- Visa-related expenses
- Host institution: Expected to waive bench/laboratory fees where applicable
Eligibility Criteria
Eligible applicants must:
- Be currently enrolled PhD researchers OR
- Have completed a PhD within the last 5 years
Additional eligibility conditions:
- Research must be conducted in a SCAR member country
- Host country must be different from both:
- Applicant’s country of origin
- Applicant’s current country of residence
- Exceptions may apply for career breaks (e.g., maternity or paternity leave)
Host and Research Placement Requirements
Selected fellows may be placed in:
- Research laboratories
- Field research stations
- Academic or scientific institutes
- SCAR member country research facilities
These placements are intended to:
- Provide exposure to advanced Antarctic research methods
- Strengthen international scientific cooperation
- Build long-term research networks
Why This Programme Matters
This fellowship strengthens the global Antarctic research community by supporting early-career scientists and enabling cross-border collaboration. It helps build expertise in climate science and polar research while fostering long-term international partnerships essential for understanding environmental change in Antarctica.
Key Expected Outcomes
The programme aims to achieve:
- Increased participation of early-career researchers in Antarctic science
- Stronger international collaboration in polar research
- Enhanced research capacity in SCAR member countries
- Improved understanding of climate and ecosystem changes in Antarctica
- Development of long-term scientific partnerships
Conclusion
The fellowship programme under Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research provides early-career researchers with a unique opportunity to engage in Antarctic science through international placements. By fostering collaboration and supporting field and laboratory research, it strengthens global capacity in climate and polar science.
For more information, visit SCAR.