2026 AERC-World Bank Visiting Scholars Programme

📖 About the Programme

The AERC-World Bank Visiting Scholars Programme provides an opportunity for African Economic Research Consortium (AERC) researchers to visit the World Bank for four to six months, with a total of three researchers selected annually.

Participants will:

• Work on their own research relevant to economic development in Africa.
• Collaborate with World Bank researchers, particularly those in the Africa Region.
• Engage in capacity-building efforts and analytical work on World Bank Regional Flagship Studies.

Key Responsibilities of Visiting Scholars

Visiting scholars will:

• Be part of the Office of the Chief Economist for Africa Region (AFRCE) team.
• Attend AFRCE-led activities and capacity-building efforts.
• Revise their draft paper and submit it to the World Bank Working Paper Series and a ranking journal.
• Present at least one seminar on their research during the program.
• Contribute to ongoing research and analytical work in the Africa Region.
• Develop a repository of research interests.
• Comply with all terms and conditions outlined in their consultancy contract.

🎁 Benefits

• Gain professional experience from the World Bank, a leading global organization.
• Collaborate with top researchers and scholars.
• Access World Bank resources to enhance research and teaching materials.

✅ Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the programme, applicants must:

• Be an AERC researcher, including those from the AERC collaborative PhD programme (CPP).
• Have an active AERC research project at least at the interim/post-field stage or final research paper stage.
• Ensure their research project aligns with the World Bank Africa Region’s research agenda and imperatives for sustained African development.

📝 Application Process

Applicants must submit an expression of interest that includes:

1. A two-page statement of interest.
2. A draft paper on a subject relevant to the Africa Region’s research agenda and African development imperatives.
3. Curriculum/course materials (if teaching a relevant course) that they aim to improve during the visit.
4. An updated curriculum vitae.

Submission Details

• Email application packages to the AERC Research Department at research@aercafrica.org.
• Up to three awards will be announced for the 2025/2026 cohort.
• Deadline: Submit your application by September 1, 2025. Late applications will not be considered.

Note: Women are especially encouraged to apply.

📅 Important Dates

• Date Published: August 1, 2025
• Application Deadline: September 1, 2025

🌟 Sponsor Organization

The programme is sponsored by The African Economic Research Consortium (AERC).

🔗 Additional Information

For more details, visit the AERC-World Bank Visiting Scholars Programme page.

Don't miss this opportunity to advance your research and contribute to Africa's development!

• Gain professional experience from World Bank, a leading organisation.