The African Economic Research Consortium (AERC), in partnership with the World Bank Africa Region Chief Economist’s Office (AFRCE), is inviting applications for the AERC-World Bank Visiting Scholars Program 2026/2027. This prestigious fellowship offers African researchers the opportunity to spend between four and six months at the World Bank, collaborate with leading economists, and strengthen research that contributes to Africa’s development agenda.
The program is a key component of the collaboration between AERC and the World Bank aimed at enhancing economic policy research, strengthening academic networks, and increasing the policy impact of research across Sub-Saharan Africa.
Applications are open until September 6, 2026.
About the AERC-World Bank Visiting Scholars Program
The Visiting Scholars Program was established under a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between AERC and the World Bank’s Africa Region Chief Economist’s Office. Through this initiative, selected scholars gain access to the World Bank’s extensive research resources, professional networks, and analytical expertise.
The fellowship is designed to support African researchers working on development-focused economic research while fostering stronger collaboration between African scholars and World Bank researchers.
Program Objectives
The collaboration seeks to:
• Enhance AERC’s capacity to strengthen economic policy research in Sub-Saharan Africa.
• Strengthen global academic and policy linkages for AERC researchers.
• Increase the policy influence and impact of research conducted by both AERC and the World Bank.
• Improve the research output, publication record, and teaching capacity of African researchers through access to World Bank resources, data, and networks.
Fellowship Benefits
Selected visiting scholars will have the opportunity to:
• Spend four to six months at the World Bank.
• Work closely with researchers in the Office of the Chief Economist for Africa Region (DECAF).
• Access world-class research resources, datasets, and analytical tools.
• Participate in capacity-building activities organized by the World Bank.
• Collaborate with scholars contributing to Africa Regional Flagship Studies.
• Strengthen professional networks with leading economists and development experts.
• Revise and improve research papers for submission to high-ranking academic journals and the World Bank Working Paper Series.
• Present research findings through seminars and academic discussions.
• Enhance course materials and academic content for university teaching.
Responsibilities of Visiting Scholars
During the fellowship period, scholars will be expected to:
• Participate actively in DECAF-led activities.
• Engage with World Bank researchers and analytical teams.
• Revise and strengthen their draft research papers.
• Submit research outputs to the World Bank Working Paper Series and peer-reviewed journals.
• Deliver at least one seminar presentation on their research.
• Contribute to ongoing analytical and research activities within the World Bank Africa Region.
• Develop a repository of research interests and areas of expertise.
• Comply with all program requirements and consultancy contract obligations.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
• Be an AERC researcher, including participants in the AERC Collaborative PhD Programme (CPP).
• Have an active AERC research project at the interim, post-fieldwork, or final research paper stage.
• Be conducting research relevant to the World Bank Africa Region’s research priorities and Africa’s development challenges.
Encouraged Applicants
Women researchers, as well as francophone and lusophone candidates, are especially encouraged to apply.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit:
• A two-page statement of interest.
• A draft research paper addressing issues relevant to African development and the World Bank Africa Region research agenda.
• Relevant curriculum or course materials they wish to improve during the fellowship (if applicable).
• An updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
How to Apply
Application packages should be submitted via email to:
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Applicants should ensure all required documents are included before submission.
Number of Awards
Up to two awards will be offered for the 2026/2027 cohort.
Application Deadline
📅 September 6, 2026
Late applications will not be considered.
Why You Should Apply
The AERC-World Bank Visiting Scholars Program offers a rare opportunity for African researchers to deepen their research expertise, engage directly with leading development economists, and contribute to policy-relevant work addressing Africa’s most pressing economic challenges. By combining access to global research resources with opportunities for publication, networking, and professional development, the fellowship can significantly enhance both academic and policy impact.
Final Thoughts
If you are an AERC researcher working on issues related to economic development in Africa, this fellowship provides an excellent platform to strengthen your research, expand your professional network, and contribute to evidence-based policymaking across the continent. Researchers with strong ongoing projects and a commitment to advancing African development are encouraged to apply before the deadline.
Discover more fellowship opportunities on the OFY Webpage .
