ICARDA and AFESD Dryland Academy - Two Calls to Empower the Next Generation of Dryland Researchers
ICARDA, in partnership with the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development (AFESD), has announced two new calls for applications under the AFESD–ICARDA Dryland Academy. These programs aim to strengthen research capacity and scientific collaboration across the Arab region, with a focus on climate change, food security, and sustainable agriculture in drylands.
Academic Co-Supervision and Research Support Program for Arab MSc Students
This program is designed to enhance higher education and research capacity in dryland agriculture for nationals of Arab countries. It offers selected MSc students access to ICARDA’s scientific expertise through co-supervision, technical mentoring, and opportunities to engage in research activities and scientific forums.
By bridging academic institutions with international research expertise, the program contributes to building a new generation of scientists capable of advancing solutions in agriculture, natural resource management, and environmental sustainability.
Eligibility criteria
Applicants must:
- Be a national of an Arab country
- Be currently enrolled in an MSc program (or equivalent graduate degree)
- Have an approved or near-finalized thesis topic
- Demonstrate that the research is ongoing or about to start
- Provide endorsement from their academic supervisor and university
- Be able to communicate in English
- Commit to actively participating throughout the program period (2026)Application deadline: 11 April 2026
Apply here: AFESD–ICARDA Dryland Academy – Fill out the form
More details on the application process: Click Here
The Online Mentoring and Peer-to-Peer Program for Mid-Career Arab Researchers
This program aims to strengthen the technical and professional capacities of researchers working in dryland agriculture for nationals of Arab countries. It provides structured online mentoring, peer learning, and technical exchange opportunities guided by ICARDA scientists and regional experts.
This initiative fosters collaboration, knowledge sharing, and innovation across the region, supporting researchers in advancing their work on climate resilience and food security.
Eligibility criteria
Applicants must:
- Be a national of an Arab country
- Be currently employed in a research or research-related position
- Have approximately 5 - 15 years of professional research experience (after MSc or PhD)
- Hold at least an MSc degree
- Demonstrate involvement in ongoing research activities
- Be able to communicate in English (working language of the program)
- Obtain institutional endorsement from their employer
- Commit to participating throughout the program duration (2026)
Application deadline: 11 April 2026
Apply here: AFESD–ICARDA Dryland Academy – Fill out form
More details on the application process: Click Here
Investing in Capacity Development for Dryland Agriculture
Training and capacity development programs are vital to ICARDA’s mission of delivering science-based solutions for dryland regions. Through this partnership, ICARDA and AFESD are investing in the next generation of researchers and professionals equipped to address the pressing challenges facing agri-food systems across the dry areas.
Researchers and students are encouraged to apply and become part of a growing network working to strengthen resilient and sustainable agri-food systems in dry areas.