Ugandan conservation researchers can apply for the 2027 Russell E. Train Fellowship focused on human-elephant conflict around Murchison Falls National Park. The award can provide up to US$15,000 per year for as long as two years of master’s study and research.
Overview
The current Fellowship supports research on crop-raiding elephants and human-wildlife conflict along the northern boundary of Murchison Falls National Park. WWF is seeking work that can generate practical evidence for improving coexistence, reducing conflict, and informing conservation management.
Applicants must be Ugandan nationals pursuing a relevant master’s degree at an accredited institution in Uganda.
Benefits
- Funding: Fellows can receive up to US$15,000 per year for a maximum of two years.
- Tuition and Fees: The award may support eligible university tuition and academic fees.
- Living Costs: Approved living expenses can be included in the Fellowship budget.
- Research Costs: Funding can cover books, materials, field research, and other approved research expenses.
- Conservation Impact: The Fellowship supports applied research with direct relevance to human-elephant coexistence in Uganda.
Eligibility
- Nationality: Applicants must be Ugandan nationals.
- Study Level: Applicants must be enrolled in, admitted to, or applying for a relevant master’s programme at an accredited Ugandan institution.
- Academic Background: Applicants should hold a relevant bachelor’s degree.
- Research Focus: The proposed research must address crop-raiding elephant conflict around the northern boundary of Murchison Falls National Park.
- Commitment: Applicants should demonstrate a clear commitment to conservation and practical application of the research.
How to Apply
- Deadline: Applications close on December 15, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. U.S. Eastern Time.
- Prepare the Proposal: Develop a research proposal directly connected to the stated human-wildlife conflict theme.
- Build the Budget: Request only eligible study and research costs within the Fellowship’s annual limit.
- Submit: Complete the official WWF Russell E. Train Fellowship application before the deadline.
