MOPGA 8 Visiting Fellowship 2026: France Invites Young Researchers to Tackle Climate Challenges

France has once again stepped forward as a global leader in environmental research and action through its Make Our Planet Great Again (MOPGA) 8 Visiting Fellowship Programme 2026. The initiative opens a remarkable opportunity for young international researchers to conduct a year of fully funded, climate-focused research in France — one of the world’s top hubs for sustainability innovation.

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France’s Global Climate Leadership

As the birthplace of the Paris Agreement, France continues to pioneer climate solutions through collaboration, research, and innovation. The MOPGA 8 Visiting Fellowship Programme is designed to attract 60 talented young researchers from around the world who are passionate about combating climate change and supporting sustainable development. Through this initiative, France aims to strengthen global scientific contributions aligned with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the goals of the Conference of the Parties (COPs).

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Research Themes to Shape a Sustainable Future

Participants in the MOPGA 8 Fellowship will explore five major research themes that address the planet’s most urgent environmental concerns:

1. Earth Systems – understanding global natural processes.
2. Climate Change and Sustainability – developing adaptation and resilience strategies.
3. Energy Transition – promoting low-carbon and renewable energy solutions.
4. Societal Challenges of Environmental Issues – studying policy, economics, and human behavior.
5. One Health Approach – integrating human, animal, and ecosystem well-being into sustainable development.

Each fellow will collaborate with French institutions and laboratories, contributing to innovative projects that cross borders and disciplines.

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Who Can Apply

The fellowship welcomes foreign researchers (non-French nationals) who have earned a PhD within the last five years — specifically between December 2020 and December 2025. Candidates must not have lived in France for more than 90 days between 12 September and 12 December 2025. There are no nationality restrictions, making this a truly global call for talent.

Applicants are expected to propose an original research project and secure a host institution in France that will formalize the partnership through a Hosting Agreement (Convention de Séjour de Recherche).

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Fellowship Benefits

Selected MOPGA 8 fellows will receive:

• A monthly stipend of €2,500 for 12 months.
• A relocation allowance of €500 to support travel and setup.
• Social security and health insurance coverage during their stay.
  This generous package ensures that researchers can focus fully on their scientific work and integration into French research culture.

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Application Timeline

The deadline to apply for the MOPGA 8 Visiting Fellowship is 12 December 2025.
Successful applicants will be notified between May and June 2026, and the research stay in France will begin between September and December 2026, depending on institutional arrangements