CSAAD 2025-2026 Postdoctoral Research Fellowship at NYU for African Scholars – $35,000 Stipend & Full Funding

Fellowship Overview

The Center for the Study of Africa and the African Diaspora (CSAAD) at New York University (NYU) invites applications for its 2025-2026 Postdoctoral Research Fellowship. This prestigious fellowship provides early-career scholars based in Africa and the African Diaspora (excluding North America and Europe) with an opportunity to conduct advanced research at NYU, gaining access to world-class academic resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities.

The fellowship is designed to support research in the humanities and social sciences, focusing on Africa and its diaspora. Fellows will spend either one or two semesters at NYU, engaging with leading scholars and utilizing the university’s extensive resources to advance their research.

Application Deadline: March 14, 2025

Fields of Study

The fellowship is open to scholars in the Humanities and Social Sciences with research projects that focus on Africa or its Diaspora. Topics may include, but are not limited to:

• African history, politics, and culture
• African literature and linguistics
• Migration and Diaspora studies
• Race, identity, and postcolonial studies
• Economic and social development in Africa

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the CSAAD Postdoctoral Research Fellowship, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be based and live in Africa or the African Diaspora (excluding North America and Europe).
• Have completed a PhD within the last four years (i.e., no earlier than 2021).
• Conduct research that is relevant to Africa or its Diaspora.

Selection Criteria

Applicants will be evaluated based on the following factors:

1. Research Quality and Relevance: The originality, significance, and academic rigor of the proposed research.
2. Alignment with NYU Resources: How well the scholar’s research aligns with NYU’s academic strengths and available resources.
3. Potential Contribution: The applicant’s ability to contribute to the field and engage meaningfully with NYU faculty and students.

Eligible Countries

Applicants must be residing in Africa or the African Diaspora, except for scholars based in North America or Europe who are not eligible for this fellowship.

Fellowship Location

The fellowship will take place at New York University (NYU) in New York City, USA.

Number of Fellowships Available

The number of awards varies depending on the selection process and available funding.

Fellowship Benefits

Selected fellows will receive the following support:

• $35,000 stipend per semester to cover living expenses.
• A fully furnished studio apartment in New York City for the duration of the fellowship.
• Round-trip airfare to and from New York City.
• Access to NYU’s academic resources, including libraries, research centers, and faculty mentorship.
• Opportunities for networking and scholarly engagement with leading academics in the Humanities and Social Sciences.

Fellowship Duration

Fellows may choose to participate in either one or two semesters:

• Fall 2025: September 2, 2025 – January 12, 2026
• Spring 2026: January 20, 2026 – May 31, 2026

Applicants requesting both semesters must indicate their preferred semester if only one semester is granted.

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit the following documents:

1. A One-Page Letter of Introduction: Explaining the applicant’s background, research interests, and motivation for applying.
2. A Two-Page Research Project Summary: Outlining the proposed research, its relevance to Africa or the Diaspora, and how NYU’s resources will support the project. Applicants must specify their preferred semester(s).
3. One Letter of Recommendation: From an academic mentor or professional referee familiar with the applicant’s work.
4. Curriculum Vitae (CV): Detailing academic qualifications, research experience, and publications.

How to Apply

Interested scholars should apply online through the following link:
CSAAD 2025-2026 Postdoctoral Research Fellowship Application

Conclusion

The CSAAD 2025-2026 Postdoctoral Research Fellowship at NYU is a remarkable opportunity for early-career African scholars to deepen their research, expand their professional networks, and contribute to global academic discussions on Africa and its Diaspora. By engaging with NYU’s vibrant intellectual community, fellows will enhance their academic careers and bring valuable knowledge back to their home institutions, fostering academic excellence across the continent and beyond.

Key Dates to Remember

• Application Deadline: March 14, 2025
• Fall Semester: September 2, 2025 – January 12, 2026
• Spring Semester: January 20, 2026 – May 31, 2026