Yale University’s Council on African Studies, under the Whitney and Betty MacMillan Center for International and Area Studies, is inviting applications for the Visiting African Scholars Fellowship 2026–2027. This prestigious fellowship is designed for African academics holding full-time positions in African universities, aiming to strengthen Africa-focused research and teaching at Yale University while fostering scholarly exchange between the U.S. and African institutions.
Fellowship Overview
The Visiting African Scholars Fellowship offers recipients the opportunity to teach one course on an African-related topic in the humanities or social sciences during either the fall or spring semester. Fellows will also develop a research project, deliver a public lecture to the Yale community, and engage fully in the intellectual and social life of the Council and the MacMillan Center. Yale provides generous stipends, research support, and access to its world-class library resources to ensure fellows can focus on scholarship and teaching.
Eligibility and Qualifications
Applicants must:
- Hold a full-time academic position at an African university.
- Possess a doctorate or equivalent qualifications in a relevant field.
- Be available for full-time residence at Yale starting August 1, 2026.
- Demonstrate a strong track record in research and teaching focused on African topics.
Fellows are expected to actively contribute to both Yale and the African academic community through research, mentorship, and teaching.
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Fellowship Benefits
The program provides:
- A competitive stipend to support the scholar during the fellowship.
- Access to Yale’s library and research facilities.
- Opportunities to engage in workshops, seminars, and networking with Yale faculty and students.
- A platform to deliver a public lecture and share research findings with a wider audience.
Application Instructions
Applicants should submit their materials via Interfolio and include:
- Cover Letter – Include your email, and indicate a Yale faculty member you wish to work with and why.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) – List academic positions, publications, and relevant experience.
- Research Project Proposal – Up to 1,000 words describing your planned research project.
- Proposed Course – Include a summary, schedule of readings, and assignments.
- References – Names and contacts of two referees who can provide recommendation letters if shortlisted.
The deadline for applications is December 15, 2025, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. Questions may be directed to rita.offiaeli@yale.edu with “Visiting African Scholars” in the subject line.
Yale University Commitment
Yale University is committed to diversity and equal opportunity, welcoming applicants from various backgrounds and perspectives. The fellowship supports the professional growth of African scholars and encourages collaborative academic engagement between Yale and African universities.
The final candidates may be subject to professional conduct review and background screening to ensure eligibility. This is a standard requirement for new faculty appointments.
Why Apply?
The Visiting African Scholars Fellowship offers a unique platform for African academics to expand their research, engage in teaching at a leading U.S. university, and build professional networks that can strengthen Africa-focused scholarship globally. Fellows gain valuable experience, contribute to cross-continental knowledge exchange, and enhance their professional portfolios.
For more information, visit the Visiting African Scholars Fellowship.
