Call For Applications: Women in AI/ML Doctoral Fellowship 2026 – USD 5,000 Research Grant for PhD Researchers in Sub-Saharan Africa

Application Deadline: July 31, 2026

About the Fellowship

The Women in AI/ML Doctoral Fellowship 2026 is now open for applications and specifically targets women PhD researchers across Sub-Saharan Africa who are eager to incorporate Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) into their doctoral research. This prestigious fellowship offers a unique opportunity to support women scholars in advancing their research capabilities through cutting-edge AI and ML methodologies. Designed to promote gender equity in the field of advanced AI research, the fellowship is implemented through a collaborative partnership involving the KAIA Network, The New School, and the African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC). Its primary goal is to increase the participation of women in high-level AI research, helping to build strong technical and computational skills among female doctoral researchers. Participants will have the chance to engage in interdisciplinary research that addresses critical social, scientific, environmental, and development challenges facing the continent and the world. The fellowship not only provides financial support but also encourages innovative thinking and collaboration across disciplines, empowering women to lead impactful research initiatives. If you are a woman pursuing a PhD in Africa with a passion for AI and ML, this fellowship is an excellent opportunity to enhance your expertise, expand your professional network, and contribute to solutions for pressing global issues. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative program apply now and propel your research career to new heights!

Fellowship Benefits

Selected fellows receive a USD 5,000 research grant, which may be used for:

• Tuition expenses
• Computing resources and software
• Data acquisition and analysis
• AI/ML mentorship support
• Research-related travel and fieldwork
• Other approved doctoral research expenses

Additional Support:

• Mentorship from experienced AI, data science, and interdisciplinary researchers
• Technical capacity-building through workshops and seminars
• Access to an international research network of AI/ML researchers and practitioners
• Opportunities to collaborate with AI engineers, data scientists, and social scientists

Eligibility Criteria

The fellowship is open to women who:

• Are currently enrolled in or admitted to a PhD programme at an accredited institution in Sub-Saharan Africa
• Are conducting research in social sciences or related disciplines and demonstrate a clear intention to integrate AI and machine learning methodologies into their doctoral research
• Are working in eligible fields including:

• Computer Science
• Engineering
• Economics
• Public Health
• Environmental Science
• Sociology
• Demography
• Development Studies
• Political Science
• Data Science
• Other related disciplines

Application Requirements

Applicants must:

• Create a profile on the KAIA Network platform
• Submit the fellowship application through the network
• Provide supporting documents including:
• Research statement explaining how AI or ML will be incorporated into doctoral research
• Academic CV
• Proof of PhD enrollment or admission
• Letters of recommendation

How to Apply

Application Link: Click here to apply