Applications are open for the 2026 SVRI Early Career Research Fellowships for doctoral and postdoctoral researchers in low- and middle-income countries. Learn about eligibility, benefits, research areas, and application steps.

SVRI Early Career Research Fellowships 2026: Empowering LMIC Researchers to Transform the Evidence on Violence Against Women and Children

The Sexual Violence Research Initiative (SVRI) has officially opened the call for proposals for the 2026 Early Career Research Fellowships, sparking strong interest across global research communities. These fellowships are designed to uplift emerging scholars in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) who are committed to deepening the understanding of violence against women (VAW) and violence against children (VAC).

In a world where research agendas are often shaped and funded by institutions in high-income countries, SVRI’s fellowships stand out by placing leadership and knowledge generation directly in the hands of LMIC scholars. Their work not only strengthens local evidence but also ensures that solutions are grounded in the lived realities of the communities most affected.

In 2026, SVRI will award four competitive fellowships—two doctoral and two postdoctoral—each supporting impactful, locally led research with the potential to shift policy, strengthen systems, and improve lives across regions.

Why This Fellowship Matters: The Urgent Need for Research on VAW and VAC Intersections

Recognition of the deep connections between VAW and VAC continues to grow, yet the global evidence base remains fragmented and uneven. Early reviews shared at the SVRI Forum 2013 identified six areas where these forms of violence intersect, including:

• Shared risk factors
• Social norms that discourage reporting or help-seeking
• High rates of co-occurrence inside households
• Intergenerational impacts
• Overlapping life-long consequences
• Adolescence as a uniquely vulnerable period

While research has expanded, major gaps persist—especially in LMICs. Many studies focus narrowly on intimate partner violence and child maltreatment, leaving limited evidence on other forms of violence. Few explore risk and protective factors within households, and even fewer apply strong gender or power analyses. Longitudinal studies remain rare.

A more recent rapid systematic review identified 29 promising interventions addressing both VAW and VAC, across 15 countries. However, most initiatives targeted either IPV or child maltreatment, rather than tackling them together. Gaps in definitions, measurement, and methodology continue to restrict understanding and limit progress.

Against this backdrop, SVRI’s commitment to supporting LMIC researchers is both timely and transformative. Locally led research increases relevance, strengthens community ownership, and supports long-term change.

About the SVRI Early Career Research Fellowships

The SVRI Early Career Research Fellowships are intentionally designed to support scholars who are still establishing themselves in academic and research spaces. These fellowships create room for early career researchers to shape the field, influence policy, and strengthen global knowledge on intersections between VAW and VAC.

Fellowship Objectives

The programme aims to:

• Build leadership and research skills among early career LMIC researchers
• Strengthen global evidence on the intersections of VAW and VAC
• Support the publication and dissemination of locally grounded knowledge
• Foster feminist, equity-focused regional and global research networks

Fellowship Categories and Funding

The 2026 cohort includes four awards:

These awards are specifically structured to support research, mentorship, learning, and participation in academic and professional activities essential for developing advanced expertise.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply, candidates must:

• Be nationals of a low- or middle-income country (LMIC)
• Be enrolled full-time at an in-person, accredited LMIC academic institution
• Be conducting doctoral dissertation or postdoctoral research focusing on intersections of VAW and VAC
• (PhD applicants) Have a defended or institutionally approved dissertation proposal

Preference is given to applicants who:

• Come from underrepresented regions or communities
• Demonstrate long-term commitment to advancing the rights and wellbeing of women and children

How to Apply for the 2026 SVRI Fellowships

All applications must be submitted online through Proposal Central.

First-time applicants must create an account before accessing the application portal.

Accepted Languages

• English
• French
• Spanish

The full Request for Proposals (RFP), including FAQs in all three languages, is available on the SVRI website.

Application Process

Applicants must complete:

1. Online Application Form, including:

• Career Objectives (6000 characters)
• Community Impact Statement (3000 characters)
• Research Proposal following SVRI’s structured format

2. Upload Required Documents

• Letter from academic institution verifying status and nationality
• Academic transcripts (past two years)
• Two reference letters (one from academic advisor)

3. Interview Stage

Short-listed applicants will be invited to a panel interview.

Application Deadline

⏳ 31 January 2026 at 11:50 pm (South African Time)

Late applications or submissions outside Proposal Central will not be considered. SVRI encourages early submission to avoid potential technical issues near the deadline.

Contact Information

For questions or application support:
📧 [email protected]
Subject line: Fellowships

Ready to Apply? Take the Next Step!

The SVRI Early Career Research Fellowships offer a remarkable opportunity for emerging LMIC researchers to shape global understanding and drive meaningful, community-centered change. With strong mentorship, sustainable funding, and a powerful global network, fellows are positioned to make long-lasting contributions to ending violence against women and children.

APPLY HERE

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