AERC-World Bank Visiting Scholars Program 2026/2027: Research Opportunity

The AERC-World Bank Visiting Scholars Program 2026/2027 is inviting researchers to apply for a unique opportunity to spend time at the World Bank. This program allows participants to work on their own research related to economic development in Africa and collaborate with World Bank researchers. Applications are open to researchers within the AERC network.

Application Closing Date: September 6, 2026
Location: World Bank Headquarters
Programme Duration: Not specified
Stipend: Not specified (implied consultancy contract)
Minimum Qualification: Active AERC research project

About the AERC-World Bank Visiting Scholars Program

The AERC-World Bank Visiting Scholars Program is designed to support researchers from the African Economic Research Consortium (AERC) network. The program offers a chance to work at the World Bank, focusing on research that addresses economic development challenges and opportunities in Africa. Participants will engage with World Bank researchers and contribute to ongoing analytical work.

This fellowship provides a structured environment for scholars to refine their research papers, potentially for publication in the World Bank Working Paper Series or reputable journals. It also offers opportunities for capacity building and collaboration with peers and experts in the field of African economic development. The program aims to strengthen research capabilities and foster impactful contributions to the continent’s development agenda.

About AERC and the World Bank

The African Economic Research Consortium (AERC) is a leading research institution dedicated to strengthening economic research and policy analysis capacity in Africa. It supports a network of researchers and institutions across the continent, fostering evidence-based policymaking. AERC plays a key role in building a vibrant community of African economists.

The World Bank is a global financial institution that provides loans and grants to governments of low- and middle-income countries for capital projects. It aims to reduce poverty by offering economic development advice and technical assistance. The World Bank’s Africa Region focuses on supporting sustainable development and economic growth across the continent.

Available Research Opportunities

This program is open to researchers working on projects relevant to the World Bank’s Africa Region research agenda. Specific research areas may include, but are not limited to:

• Poverty reduction strategies
• Economic growth and diversification
• Trade and regional integration
• Climate change adaptation and mitigation
• Human capital development
• Governance and institutional reforms

Researchers are encouraged to align their project proposals with the current imperatives for sustained African development.

What the Program Offers

Successful applicants will benefit from several key aspects of the Visiting Scholars Program:

• Research Refinement: Opportunity to revise draft papers and prepare them for publication.
• Collaboration: Work alongside World Bank researchers and economists.
• Capacity Building: Participate in workshops and activities organized by the World Bank’s Africa Region.
• Networking: Connect with scholars and professionals in economic development.
• Resource Access: Utilize the World Bank’s extensive resources and data.
• Presentation Opportunities: Present research findings at seminars.

Programme Duration and Location

The program is hosted at the World Bank headquarters. While the specific duration for each scholar is not detailed, the program is referred to as the 2026/2027 cohort, suggesting it spans over this period. Participants will be integrated into the Office of the Chief Economist for Africa Region (DECAF) team during their tenure.

Eligibility

To be considered for the AERC-World Bank Visiting Scholars Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be an AERC researcher, including those from the AERC Collaborative PhD Programme (CPP).
• Have an active AERC research project that is at least at the interim/post field stage or final research paper stage.
• The research project must be pertinent to the research agenda of the World Bank Africa Region and address imperatives for sustained African development.

Competencies Required

While not explicitly listed as formal requirements, the nature of the program suggests that successful applicants will possess:

• Strong analytical and research skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• The capacity to work independently and collaboratively.
• A deep understanding of economic development issues in Africa.
• A commitment to producing high-quality research.

Who Should Apply?

This visiting scholars program is ideal for established AERC researchers who have ongoing research projects relevant to Africa’s economic development. It is suited for individuals looking to gain exposure to an international development institution, refine their academic work, and contribute to policy-relevant research. If you are an African researcher with a strong project and a desire to collaborate with global experts, this program offers a valuable platform.

Required Documents

Applicants are required to submit the following documents as part of their expression of interest:

• A two-page statement of interest outlining their research and how it aligns with the program.
• A draft paper on a subject pertinent to the research agenda of the World Bank Africa Region and African development imperatives.
• Curriculum vitae (CV).
• If applicable, curriculum/course materials for a relevant course they teach that they wish to improve while visiting the World Bank.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should submit their application packages via email. The expression of interest, along with all required documents, must be sent to [email protected] and [email protected] . Ensure that all documents are prepared accurately and submitted before the specified closing date.

Important Notes

• Only up to two awards will be announced for the 2026/2027 cohort.
• Late applications will not be considered.
• The program requires participants to comply with all terms and conditions of their consultancy contract.
• Participants are expected to contribute meaningfully to the World Bank’s Africa Region research.

Closing Date

The closing date for the AERC-World Bank Visiting Scholars Program 2026/2027 is September 6, 2026.

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