Global Youth Mental Health Research Fellowship 2026: Funded Program for Emerging Leaders

The Global Youth Mental Health Research Fellowship 2026 is a fully funded 12-month opportunity designed to support emerging leaders in child and adolescent mental health from Pakistan, Indonesia, and Colombia. This prestigious fellowship provides structured training, hands-on research experience, mentorship, and global collaboration opportunities for early-career professionals and individuals with lived experience who are committed to improving youth mental health outcomes.

About the Program

The Global Youth Mental Health Research Fellowship is implemented by the Global Institute of Human Development (GIHD) at Shifa Tameer-e-Millat University in collaboration with leading global institutions, including The George Washington University, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Universidad de los Andes, and The Global Health Network. The program aims to build the next generation of leaders who can address mental health challenges among young people through research, advocacy, and evidence-based practice.

This 12-month, full-time fellowship runs from 1 June 2026 to 30 May 2027. Fellows will be actively engaged in research projects under expert supervision, contributing to meaningful studies that inform policy and practice in global mental health. The program combines academic rigor with practical application, ensuring that participants gain both theoretical knowledge and real-world experience.

Participants will also benefit from a structured curriculum covering key areas such as global mental health foundations, research design, ethics and safeguarding, randomized controlled trials, data analysis, and dissemination of findings. Through this comprehensive approach, the fellowship equips participants with the tools needed to drive impactful change in their communities.

Why This Opportunity Matters

Youth mental health is a growing global priority, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where access to services and research capacity may be limited. This fellowship directly addresses these gaps by investing in local talent and strengthening research capabilities in key regions.

By focusing on early-career professionals and individuals with lived experience, the program ensures that diverse perspectives are included in shaping mental health solutions. This inclusive approach not only enhances the relevance of research but also promotes more effective and culturally responsive interventions.

The fellowship also fosters international collaboration, connecting participants with global experts and networks. This exposure helps fellows understand broader trends in mental health while contributing locally grounded insights to the global discourse.

What Participants Will Gain

Participants in the fellowship will gain a combination of academic, professional, and personal development benefits. The program offers financial support through a fellowship stipend, along with coverage for research-related expenses and travel, allowing fellows to focus fully on their work.

Fellows will develop advanced research skills through hands-on experience, working as part of multidisciplinary teams on ongoing projects. This practical exposure is complemented by mentorship from leading experts in global mental health, providing guidance on both technical and career development.

In addition, participants will receive training in grant writing and scientific publication, enhancing their ability to secure funding and disseminate their work effectively. The fellowship also provides access to a global network through The Global Health Network, enabling collaboration with professionals across more than 180 countries.

Upon successful completion, fellows will receive a certificate from the Global Mental Health Equity Lab at The George Washington University, adding significant value to their professional credentials and future career opportunities.

Who Can Apply

The fellowship is open to a diverse group of applicants who are committed to improving youth mental health. Eligible candidates include early-career psychiatrists, psychologists, academics in mental health, allied health professionals, and individuals working with young people in health or education settings.

Importantly, the program also welcomes young people with lived experience of mental health challenges, recognizing the value of lived perspectives in shaping research and advocacy efforts.

Applicants must have completed at least 16 years of education and/or have no more than five years of work experience in the mental health field. They must also be available to commit full-time for the entire duration of the fellowship.

Eligible Areas

Applicants must be based in Pakistan, Indonesia, or Colombia at the time of application.

Application Process and Deadline

Interested candidates must complete the online application form and submit all required materials before the deadline. The selection process includes shortlisting, interviews, and final evaluation.

The application deadline is 11 May 2026 at 5 pm local time. Shortlisted candidates will be notified on 18 May 2026, with interviews scheduled shortly after. Final decisions will be communicated by 29 May 2026, and the fellowship will commence on 1 June 2026.

Learn more and apply on the Global Health Network website.

Explore More Opportunities for Youth

Want to discover more fellowships, scholarships, internships, and global programs like this one? Visit Opportunities for Youth to explore more opportunities.