MECAM Fellowship 2026 Application Deadline: Apply by March 2 for Research in Tunisia

The application window for the prestigious MECAM Individual Fellowships 2026-2027 is closing soon. If you are a researcher in the humanities or social sciences looking for international exposure, this is a significant opportunity.

The Merian Centre for Advanced Studies in the Maghreb (MECAM) has announced that the deadline to apply for its residential fellowship program is March 2, 2026. This fellowship offers postdoctoral and advanced scholars a chance to spend eight months in Tunis, Tunisia, working on independent research while connecting with a global academic network.

Here is a complete guide on the eligibility, benefits, and how to submit your application before the deadline.

MECAM Fellowship 2026-27: Program Overview

MECAM is an international research center based in Tunis. It is a joint initiative involving German and Tunisian universities to promote free academic exchange.

For the 2026-2027 academic year, MECAM is inviting applications for eight residential fellowships. The program focuses on the main theme: “Imagining Futures: Dealing with Disparity.” Selected fellows will live and work in Tunis from September 2026 to April 2027.

Read more: NABARD Development 

Research Themes (Interdisciplinary Research Fields): Your research proposal must align with the main theme and at least one of these five sub-themes:

1. Aesthetics & Cultural Practice
2. Inequality & Mobility
3. Memory & Justice
4. Resources & Sustainability
5. Identities & Beliefs

Important Dates and Deadline

• Application Deadline: March 2, 2026
• Time: 12:30 PM CEST (Central European Summer Time)
• Fellowship Start Date: September 1, 2026
• Fellowship End Date: April 30, 2027

Note: Late applications or those sent via email will not be accepted. You must use the official online portal.

Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)

This call is open to researchers from all countries, including India.

• Academic Level: You must hold a PhD. The call is open to Postdoctoral Researchers and Advanced Scholars.
• Field of Study: Your work must be in the Humanities or Social Sciences.
• Language: You should be able to engage academically in English or French.
• Residency: You must be willing to live in Tunis for the 8-month duration of the fellowship.

Benefits and Financial Support

MECAM provides comprehensive support to ensure fellows can focus entirely on their research.

• Monthly Stipend: Fellows receive a monthly allowance to cover living expenses.
• Travel Costs: Travel and relocation expenses are reimbursed based on a “no gain/no loss” principle.
• Research Budget: Up to €1,000 is available for proven research costs (books, archival fees, etc.).
• Workspace: A shared office space is provided at MECAM in Tunis.
• Networking: Opportunities to present work, organize workshops, and publish through MECAM’s networks.

How to Apply for MECAM Fellowship 2026

The application process is entirely online. Follow these steps:

1. Prepare Your Documents:
   • CV: 2-3 pages, including a list of publications.
   • Research Proposal: Max. 1,000 words (abstract).
   • Writing Sample: A recent journal article, book chapter, or thesis chapter.
   • Statement: 1-2 pages explaining how your project relates to the Maghreb region and MECAM’s themes.
   • Referees: Names and contact details of two academic referees (letters are not required at this stage).
2. Visit the Portal: Go to the secure application platform of the Forum Transregionale Studien.
3. Submit: Upload your files and submit the form before 12:30 PM CEST on March 2, 2026.

Selection Process

MECAM will select six postdoctoral researchers and two advanced researchers. The selection is based purely on the quality and originality of the research proposal. Successful candidates will be notified after the review process is complete.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)