Applications are now open for the PhD Scholarship – Violent Futures? Contestations Along Carbon Frontiers in East Africa. The deadline to apply is 21 June 2026. This opportunity is offered by the Collaborative Research Center TRR 228 (Future Rural Africa) for a PhD researcher who will conduct long-term ethnographic research in Kenya and Tanzania.
The project focuses on how future-orientated carbon credit projects shape social relations and conflicts along carbon frontiers in East Africa. In addition, the scholarship provides a monthly stipend of €1,475 for the full award period.
Application Deadline:
- 21 June 2026 (EAT)
Tell Me About The Award:
The University of Bonn (Germany), in collaboration with the University of Cologne, invites applications for a fully funded PhD scholarship under the Collaborative Research Center CRC‑TRR 228 “Future Rural Africa”. The project “Violent Futures? Contestations along Carbon Frontiers in East Africa” explores how carbon credit projects in Kenya and Tanzania shape social relations and conflict dynamics.
Which Fields are Eligible?
Applicants must hold an MSc/MA in:
- Sociology
- Anthropology
- Environmental Studies
- Economics
- Geography
- Political Science
- Development Studies
- Peace & Conflict Studies
- Or a related discipline.
Type:
- PhD Scholarship | Fully Funded | Germany (fieldwork in East Africa)
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Demonstrate strong interest in resource conflicts, land rights, rural development, and climate finance.
- Possess solid academic writing skills and experience with qualitative research methodologies.
- Be willing to conduct extended ethnographic fieldwork in rural East Africa.
- Have knowledge of peace and conflict studies, political ecology, land‑use change, and pastoralism.
- Be fluent in English; Swahili is highly desirable.
How are Applicants Selected?
- Based on academic background, research interest, and fit with CRC Project B03.
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited to online or in‑person interviews.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- All countries (international applicants welcome).
Where will the Award be Taken?
- University of Bonn, Germany (with fieldwork in Kenya and Tanzania).
How Many Awards?
- One fully funded PhD scholarship available.
What is the Benefit of the Award?
- Monthly stipend: €1,475.
- Duration: 41 months.
- Start date: August 2026.
- Participation in CRC‑TRR 228 research network.
- Opportunities to publish, present at conferences, and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams.
How Long Will the Award Last?
- 41 months (approx. 3 years, 5 months).
How to Apply:
- Prepare a single PDF file containing:
- Motivation letter (1–2 pages).
- Curriculum Vitae.
- Statement of research interest (1–3 pages).
- Academic certificates and transcripts.
- Names/contact details of 2–3 referees.
- 1–3 publications or sample of academic writing.
- Submit by 21 June 2026 to: [email protected]
Visit the Application Webpage for Details
