IThe UNESCO/Poland Co‑Sponsored Fellowships in Archaeology and Conservation is a fully financed, internationally respected fellowship program offering young archaeologists and conservation professionals from selected developing member countries the unique chance to advance both academic and practical expertise in heritage preservation and archaeological sciences. This opportunity combines multidisciplinary academic learning with applied practice at one of Poland’s leading archaeological faculties — Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań.
Overview: What Is the UNESCO/Poland Archaeology and Conservation Fellowship?
Since its inception under UNESCO’s Fellowship Programme umbrella, the UNESCO/Poland Co‑Sponsored Fellowships in Archaeology and Conservation has aimed to build human resource capacity in archaeological research and cultural heritage conservation. The program is implemented jointly by UNESCO, the Polish National Commission for UNESCO, and the Faculty of Archaeology at Adam Mickiewicz University (UAM) in Poznań, Poland.
This fellowship is designed to foster multicultural academic exchange, elevate professional standards, and encourage international cooperation in the crucial fields of archaeology and heritage preservation. Seven (7) fellowships are available for the 2026–2027 cohort and will run for nine months from 1 October 2026 to 30 June 2027.
Who Is This Fellowship For? Eligibility and Qualifications
This fellowship is specifically targeted at emerging professionals in archaeology and conservation from select countries. To qualify, applicants must meet rigorous academic and professional criteria.
Eligible Countries
The program is open only to nationals of the following UNESCO‑invited member states:
- Africa & Middle East: Algeria, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Egypt, Ghana, Senegal, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, Republic of South Africa
- Americas: Bolivia, Cuba, Ecuador, Jamaica, Peru
- Asia & Eurasia: Georgia, Iran (Islamic Republic of), Iraq, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, Uzbekistan
- Europe & Others: Moldova
These invited states were chosen to promote capacity building in regions which are often underrepresented in global archaeological research, including post‑conflict nations where heritage conservation is especially critical.
Academic and Professional Criteria
To apply for this fellowship, candidates must:
- Hold at least a Bachelor’s (B.A.) or Master’s (M.A.) degree — preferably in Archaeology, Heritage Conservation, or a closely related discipline.
- Demonstrate proficiency in reading and writing English (spoken proficiency is advantageous).
- Be no older than 40 years of age at the time of application.
These eligibility requirements ensure that applicants are prepared to engage with advanced course content and rigorous professional activities during the nine‑month training period.
Fellowship Experience: What You Will Study and Gain
Accepted fellows will undertake a nine‑month immersive archaeological internship at the Faculty of Archaeology, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Poland.
Training Structure
The program includes:
- Core academic courses focusing on the latest multidisciplinary methods in archaeological practice.
- Supplementary trainings and workshops tailored to heritage conservation and site methodology.
- Research activities and potential participation in local fieldwork under the supervision of experienced faculty.
Through this blend of classroom and field learning, fellows not only strengthen their technical skillsets but also increase their ability to work across international heritage contexts.
Step‑by‑Step Guide: How to Apply
Applying to this fellowship requires careful preparation and coordination with your National Commission for UNESCO. Because this is an intergovernmental programme, individual applications directly to UNESCO will not be accepted.
Step 1: Review Official Programme Documentation
- Download and thoroughly read the Terms and Conditions, Application Form, and Study Programme Annexes. These documents outline the precise requirements, rules, and expectations for applicants.
Step 2: Contact Your National UNESCO Commission
Your country’s National Commission for UNESCO will be responsible for:
- Issuing nomination and endorsement of your application.
- Ensuring that your submission meets all specified criteria.
Locate contact details for your National Commission via UNESCO’s official directory.
Step 3: Prepare Your Application Package
You will need the following in English:
- Completed UNESCO fellowship application form (all four pages).
- Recent passport‑style photo.
- Scanned copy of passport ID page.
- Certified copies of academic degrees (B.A or M.A).
- UNESCO certificate of language knowledge (if English is not your native language).
- Two letters of recommendation validating your competence and suitability.
Submit your complete application to your National Commission before it forwards candidates to UNESCO.
Step 4: National Commission Nomination to UNESCO
After your National Commission endorses your application, it must be submitted to UNESCO by 15 May 2026. Only endorsements received by this date will be considered in the selection process.
What Winners Receive: Comprehensive Fellowship Benefits
This fellowship provides a robust combination of academic, logistical, and financial support across several key areas.
Support from Adam Mickiewicz University (Poland)
- Tuition coverage for the full nine‑month period.
- Access to university facilities, academic resources, and libraries.
- Monthly allowance:
- 2,200 PLN (Polish Zloty) for M.A. holders.
- 1,800 PLN for B.A. holders.
- One‑time special allowance upon arrival (matching the monthly rate), intended to support cultural visits, conferences, workshops, or settling‑in expenses.
Recipients should plan to manage living costs in Poland within these allowances.
Support from UNESCO
- International travel costs for the fellowship journey to and from Poland.
- Health insurance coverage for the duration of the fellowship for medically fit fellows.
- A one‑time pocket allowance of US$120
Visa and Practical Considerations
- Fellows from countries with a Polish Embassy or Consulate must obtain a visa before departure.
- Applicants from countries without such diplomatic representation should secure a visa through the nearest Polish Embassy or Consulate.
- Visa and passport expenses are not covered by UNESCO or the Government of Poland.
Why This Fellowship Matters: Professional, Academic & Cultural Impact
The UNESCO/Poland Co‑Sponsored Fellowships in Archaeology and Conservation is far more than a training program — it is a career‑transforming platform that:
- Elevates the technical expertise and international credibility of young professionals.
- Promotes cross‑cultural exchange and understanding among emerging heritage leaders from diverse regions.
- Strengthens global networks and future collaborations in archaeological research and conservation practice.
If you meet the eligibility criteria and have a strong commitment to archaeology or heritage conservation, this fellowship could be a defining milestone in your professional journey.
Deadline
15th May 2026
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