IDRC John G. Bene Fellowship 2026 | Call for Applications

Applications are open for the IDRC John G. Bene Fellowship 2026. Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC) has supported graduate students since 1982. This fellowship funds field research in the Global South. It focuses on forests, landscapes, and climate-resilient food systems.

Program Snapshot

• Host Organization: International Development Research Centre (IDRC)
• Funder: Bene Endowment Fund and IDRC
• Funding: Up to ten awards of a maximum CA$30,000 each
• Duration: 10 weeks to 12 months
• Eligibility: Canadians and permanent residents pursuing a master’s or PhD at a Canadian university
• Application Deadline: November 30, 2026, 23:59 ET

Focus Areas

• Forest, landscape, and agroforestry management and restoration
• Climate-resilient food systems
• Gender, inclusion, and Indigenous knowledge
• Biodiversity conservation and governance of nature

About the Fellowship

The fellowship comes from a bequest by John G. Bene’s estate. It supports practical field research on gender-responsive forest and food systems restoration. This includes fire-prone, degraded, or disputed landscapes. It emphasises nature-based solutions that benefit smallholder farmers, youth, women, and Indigenous communities. Proposals aligned with IDRC’s REVIVE Initiative are welcome.

What Fellows Receive

Each award covers the costs of field research for a thesis or dissertation. Fellows may receive up to CA$30,000. Research must take place in one or more countries of the Global South. The award does not cover living costs in Canada. Work focused on genomics or genetic modification is not eligible.

Who Can Apply

Applicants must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada. They must pursue master’s or doctoral studies at a Canadian university. Their academic background should combine forests, environment, ecology, or food systems with a social sciences lens. Applicants should propose research benefiting less privileged people in developing countries.

Required Materials

Applicants apply through the SurveyMonkey Apply portal. They need an account first. They should read the detailed call document and FAQs for full requirements. Questions go to #339966;">#339966;" href="mailto:benefellowship@idrc.ca">benefellowship@idrc.ca.

How to Apply

Submit your application before November 30, 2026, 23:59 ET.

#339966;">#339966;" href="https://idrc-crdi.ca/en/funding/idrc-invites-applications-john-g-bene-fellowship-2026" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Click Here to Apply

Conclusion

This fellowship offers graduate students funding for meaningful field research in developing countries. It is restricted to Canadians and permanent residents at Canadian universities. Applicants should review the full call document before starting. Confirm all eligibility details through IDRC’s official page.

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