Launch Your Research Career at UC Berkeley: Fully Funded CEGA Fellowship (Deadline: July 15th, 2024)
Are you a passionate researcher from Latin America or sub-Saharan Africa tackling economic development challenges in your home region? Do you dream of making a tangible difference in the lives of others? If so, the prestigious CEGA Fellowship Program at the University of California, Berkeley, could be the perfect springboard for your aspirations.
This fellowship offers a unique opportunity for LMIC (low- and middle-income country) scholars to conduct impactful research at a world-renowned university. During the program, you’ll be immersed in a stimulating intellectual environment, collaborating with distinguished faculty members and fellow researchers from across the globe.
This comprehensive guide delves into the CEGA Fellowship Program, exploring its eligibility criteria, program details, application process, and the incredible benefits it offers. By the end, you’ll have all the information you need to determine if this fellowship aligns with your goals.
The CEGA Fellowship Program: Empowering LMIC Researchers
The CEGA Fellowship Program, offered by the Centre for Effective Global Action (CEGA) at UC Berkeley, is a fully funded research fellowship specifically designed to support researchers from Latin America and sub-Saharan Africa. The program prioritizes research focused on critical economic development issues plaguing these regions.
The fellowship particularly seeks applications in three key tracks:
- Displacement: Researching the effectiveness of programs that improve the lives and livelihoods of refugee, migrant, and host communities. The program prioritizes “two-generation” approaches that integrate early childhood development (ECD) and livelihood interventions. Geographies of focus include Colombia, Ecuador, Ethiopia, and Uganda.
- Early Childhood Development: Researching the effectiveness of programs that promote good health, proper nutrition, safety, security, responsive caregiving, and early learning opportunities, particularly for children aged 0-3. Priority regions include Tanzania, Mozambique, and Kenya.
- Youth Livelihoods: Researching the effectiveness of programs designed to equip young people (ages 16-24) with the necessary skills and support to find meaningful work, focusing on education, skills training, and comprehensive support services. The program prioritizes research conducted in Kenya, especially in Mombasa.
Who Can Apply For The CEGA Fellowship
To be eligible for the CEGA Fellowship Program, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a researcher from Latin America or sub-Saharan Africa.
- Hold LMIC (low- and middle-income country) scholar status.
- Possess a PhD or be enrolled in a PhD program in a social science field (completed within the last eight years).
- Demonstrate fluency in English.
- Have prior experience with displacement research or be affiliated with a relevant research organization (preferred).
- Women and individuals with experience in forced relocation are highly encouraged to apply.
Benefits of the CEGA Fellowship
The CEGA Fellowship Program offers a wealth of benefits to its fellows, including:
- comprehensive stipend to cover living expenses in Berkeley, California.
- Health insurance coverage.
- Round-trip airfare.
- Dedicated research support.
- Unrestricted access to UC Berkeley’s vast library resources and other facilities.
- The invaluable opportunity to collaborate with leading scholars in your field.
- A chance to network and exchange ideas with fellow researchers from around the world.
The Application Process CEGA Fellowship
The CEGA Fellowship Program application process is competitive. To ensure your application stands out, you’ll need to submit the following materials:
- A current curriculum vitae.
- A well-developed research proposal clearly aligned with one of the program’s focus tracks.
- A letter of recommendation from your PhD advisor or a senior scholar familiar with your work.
- A compelling statement of purpose outlining your research goals and how the fellowship aligns with your career aspirations.
Deadline for CEGA Fellowship
Mark your calendars! The application deadline for the CEGA Fellowship Program 2025 is Monday, July 15th, 2024, at 5 PM GMT. Ensure you begin working on your application materials well in advance to allow ample time for revisions and feedback.
Enhancing Your Application: Stand Out from the Crowd
Here are some valuable tips to strengthen your application for the CEGA Fellowship Program:
Start Early: Don’t procrastinate! Begin working on your application materials well before the deadline to ensure a polished final product.
Eligibility Matters: Carefully review the eligibility requirements and program details to confirm you’re a perfect fit.
Sharpen Your Research Proposal: Develop a focused and compelling research proposal that clearly aligns with one of the program’s three tracks.
Seek Feedback: Don’t be shy! Share your application materials with trusted advisors or mentors for valuable feedback