The African Research Fellow (ARF) program part of the EO AFRICA flagship initiative of the European Space Agency (ESA) in partnership with the African Union Commission (AUC) and its specialised agency, the African Space Agency (AfSA), addresses African researchers with advanced degrees (PostDoc, PhD or Master with extensive research experience) who bridge the gap between scientific/application domain knowledge and technical satellite Earth Observation data analysis to engage in R&D activities relevant to the EO AFRICA Initiative.
The African Research Fellows are expected to conduct innovative, high-impact R&D that leverages massive satellite EO data streams, integrates in-situ measurements, and utilizes cutting-edge cloud computing and AI modelling. The work is expected to provide actionable solutions to Africa's most critical challenges..
With this call, ESA offers 1-year fellowships to four African researchers to work at the ESA-ESRIN premises in Frascati (Rome, Italy), in collaboration with ESA scientists. Activities in Frascati are expected to start in October 2026..
Please refer to attached documentation for more technical information about the general tasks to be covered by the proposal and logistic aspects:
Download the package to apply for the call.
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- Research Proposal (max 10 pages) using the official ARF template (max. 4MB).
- Curriculum Vitae (max 3 pages), including a list of recent publications (max. 2MB)
- Copy of passport with no less than 6 months validity (max. 1.5MB)
- Scan of the highest academic diploma -PhD or Master’s (max. 1.5MB)
- Two (2) confidential letters of reference (max. 2MB)
