The CLIFF-GRADS Fellowship Programme 2026 for PhD Students from developing countries.

Application Deadline: 11 January 2026

Applications are now open for the 2026 CLIFF-GRADS Fellowship Programme. The Climate, Food and Farming, Global Research Alliance Development Scholarships (CLIFF-GRADS) Programme is a joint initiative of the Global Research Alliance on Agricultural Greenhouse Gases (GRA), the Global Methane Hub, and CGIAR Climate Action Program. CLIFF-GRADS builds capability in early-career scientists from developing countries to conduct applied research in agriculture greenhouse gas emissions quantification and mitigation.

The CLIFF-GRADS Programme invites applications from PhD students from developing countries 1
for short term (4-6 months) scientific training and research on the measurement, modelling
quantification and mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions, or carbon storage in agricultural systems
relevant to developing countries (this may be in the context of enhancing food security).

Eligibility

• Individuals applying for the Programme must be citizens of developing countries , be undertaking 1
  their PhD in a University based in a developing country and must not have previously been awarded
  a CLIFF-GRADS grant.
• Preference will be given to students applying for opportunities outside their home country/ country
  of study to encourage the building of global networks and connections through this programme.

Application Procedure

Applicants must complete the CLIFF-GRADS Round 7 online application form and submit the following necessary documentation merged into a single PDF file. Applications must be in English and applications that are in any other language will not be accepted.
a. 1 page motivation letter (described below)
b. 1-page academic curriculum vitae (CV / Resume) that includes your contact details
c. Letter of support from your PhD supervisor at your current university

Selection process
Successful applicants will demonstrate the relevance of their PhD research for the project for which they are applying. Successful applicants will be matched with a project and notified by email by Tuesday 21 April 2026.
Applicants are selected based on three criteria:

1. Overall level of research experience,
2. Relevance of PhD thesis topic or other research experience to CLIFF-GRADS
   objectives, and;
3. The clarity of description of how the CLIFF-GRADS experience will improve the student’s
   scientific capability and contribute to their career.

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the CLIFF-GRADS Fellowship Programme