The Africa Climate Collaborative, hosted by ACDI, is inviting applications for 12 fully funded PhD fellowships supporting a four-year doctoral training programme in Climate and Development at the University of Cape Town (UCT) .
The programme is designed to support a new generation of African scholars working at the intersection of climate change, development and sustainable futures across the continent.
The programme is designed to support a new generation of African scholars working at the intersection of climate change, development and sustainable futures across the continent.
Job Summary
- Employer: The Africa Climate Collaborative, hosted by ACDI
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
- Category: Research
- Closing Date: 2026-10-15
Key Responsibilities
- Year 1: Structured pre-doctoral coursework
- Years 2-4: Independent thesis research under supervision, together with doctoral skills training
- Each fellowship is linked to a specific research topic and supervisory team
Requirements
- Applicants must hold a completed Master’s degree in a discipline relevant to climate and development in Africa and specifically in the discipline listed as eligible for their chosen research topic.
- The fellowships are open to citizens of an African country only . African applicants currently residing outside Africa are also eligible to apply.
- Applicants must be under 35 years of age as of 1 February 2027 .
- Each candidate may apply to only one of the 19 listed research topics . Multiple applications from a student may result in disqualification.
- Successful fellowship applicants will also need to apply for and be accepted for admission to study for a PhD at UCT. Support will be provided with the UCT application process.
How to Apply
To apply, please visit: acdi.uct.ac.za
Frequently Asked Questions
What academic qualifications are required for a PhD fellowship in climate and development in Zimbabwe?
Applicants typically need a Master's degree in environmental science, development studies, economics, or related fields from a recognized university. Strong research experience and published work are highly advantageous.
What does day-to-day research work involve for PhD fellows at Zimbabwean institutions?
Fellows spend time designing research methodologies, collecting field data in rural and urban communities, analyzing climate datasets, and writing academic papers. Regular supervision meetings and collaborative workshops with local stakeholders are also common.
How is the work culture for researchers in Zimbabwe's academic institutions?
The culture emphasizes respect for academic hierarchy, collaborative relationships with communities, and flexibility around fieldwork schedules. Punctuality for formal meetings is expected, though remote work arrangements are increasingly accepted.
What career paths open up after completing a climate and development PhD in Zimbabwe?
Graduates often pursue academic positions at universities like the University of Zimbabwe, policy roles in government ministries, or research positions with NGOs and international organizations. Some establish consulting practices focused on climate adaptation.
What benefits typically come with PhD fellowships hosted by Zimbabwean institutions?
Fellowships usually cover tuition fees, provide a modest living stipend, and may include limited medical aid coverage. Research travel and conference attendance are often supported, though comprehensive pension schemes are rare.
What do selection committees look for in PhD fellowship applications in Zimbabwe?
Committees prioritize research proposals aligned with national climate priorities, demonstrated community engagement experience, and strong academic references. Clear articulation of how the research benefits Zimbabwean development is essential.
