Learn about the SVRI Early Career Research Fellowships 2026, a major opportunity for doctoral and postdoctoral researchers in LMICs studying violence against women and children. Eligibility, funding, deadlines, and how to apply.
SVRI Early Career Research Fellowships 2026: Research Opportunities on Violence Against Women and Children
The SVRI Early Career Research Fellowships 2026 represent one of the most significant global opportunities for emerging researchers based in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The Sexual Violence Research Initiative (SVRI) has launched this funding program to support doctoral and postdoctoral scholars who are conducting innovative research on the intersections between violence against women (VAW) and violence against children (VAC).
This fellowship prioritizes locally led research, as evidence has repeatedly shown that when studies are designed and executed by researchers embedded in their own contexts, they generate deeper impact, stronger relevance, and more sustainable change. As such, the SVRI Early Career Research Fellowships 2026 aim to strengthen leadership, technical skills, and evidence production in regions where research capacity has historically been underfunded or externally driven.
The Importance of Research on VAW–VAC Intersections
Over the past decade, research has increasingly highlighted the strong connections between violence against women and violence against children. Global and regional reviews—many presented at previous SVRI Forums—have demonstrated how these two forms of violence often overlap within households, share risk factors, and produce intergenerational consequences that reinforce cycles of harm. However, despite growing recognition, the evidence base remains limited, fragmented, and inconsistent across contexts, especially within LMICs.
The SVRI Early Career Research Fellowships 2026 directly address these gaps by providing researchers with the resources and mentorship needed to develop rigorous, community-oriented research. This includes studies exploring risk and protective factors, harmful social norms, adolescent vulnerability, gender and power dynamics, and the effectiveness of integrated prevention and response interventions. Strengthening the evidence in these areas is essential for informing policies and programs capable of reducing violence in meaningful and lasting ways.
Objectives of the SVRI Early Career Research Fellowships 2026
The fellowship program is designed with four main objectives:
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Strengthen the global evidence base on how VAW and VAC intersect across different contexts.
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Build research capacity and leadership among early career researchers within LMICs.
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Support publication and dissemination of locally produced knowledge that reflects community realities.
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Create regional and international research networks rooted in feminist and equity-driven principles.
By advancing these objectives, the SVRI Early Career Research Fellowships 2026 contribute to a more inclusive global research landscape—one in which LMIC-based scholars play a central role in shaping the future of violence prevention.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the SVRI Early Career Research Fellowships 2026, applicants must be nationals of an LMIC and enrolled full-time in an accredited institution within an LMIC. Eligible candidates include those conducting doctoral dissertation research or postdoctoral studies focused specifically on the intersections of violence against women and children. PhD applicants must already have an institutionally approved or defended research proposal at the time of application.
The fellowship also encourages applications from underrepresented geographic regions and groups, and from researchers with a demonstrated long-term commitment to the rights, safety, and wellbeing of women and children.
Fellowship Structure and What It Supports
The SVRI Early Career Research Fellowships 2026 provide financial support for up to two years, allowing doctoral and postdoctoral researchers to deepen their research, engage with local communities, and disseminate findings at national or international levels. The funding covers activities such as fieldwork, data analysis, research-related travel, and dissemination costs. Beyond financial support, fellows benefit from SVRI’s global network, mentorship opportunities, and access to knowledge-sharing platforms that amplify their work.
More information on SVRI’s mission and research approach can be explored on the official website:
https://www.svri.org
How to Apply for the SVRI Early Career Research Fellowships 2026
All applications must be submitted online via Proposal Central, the official application system used by SVRI.
Official Application Link:
https://proposalcentral.altum.com
Mandatory Application Components:
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Online form including a Career Objectives statement and Community Impact statement
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Full Research Proposal (using SVRI’s required format)
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Proof of academic enrollment and nationality
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Academic transcripts
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Two reference letters (including one from the academic advisor)
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview with a panel of reviewers.
Application Deadline
31 January 2026 at 11:50 PM (South African Time)
Late submissions will not be accepted.
Additional Resources
The full Request for Proposals (RFP) is available in English, French, and Spanish on the SVRI website:
https://www.svri.org
For questions, applicants may contact: svri@svri.org (subject: Fellowships).
Final Note
For more international career opportunities, visit Opportunities For Youth:
https://fundsdigest.com/
