Breaking opportunity—just announced by The Nature Conservancy (TNC) in partnership with the Smithsonian Institution! This 3-year, high-impact fellowship invites early‑career researchers to embark on a transformational journey at the intersection of conservation, health, and ecosystem finance. Hosted in Nairobi, Kenya, fellows will be co‑mentored by experts from TNC and Smithsonian, diving into cutting-edge research on the health impacts of Water Funds in Africa. You’ll spearhead the development of a scalable health impact measurement framework, engage with stakeholders, and drive evidence-based policy solutions that support both people and nature. Fellows also receive advanced communications training, networking opportunities, and access to a dedicated research budget for conferences, data collection, and publications—all while earning a competitive salary of KES 3,531,100–4,201,890/year (~USD 25,000–30,000). Act fast—deadline is July 31, 2025. This is your game-changer moment to launch a career where science meets real-world impact.
This fellowship explores how Water Funds can improve human and livestock health, shaping new investment pathways for conservation. You’ll design and implement a health measurement toolkit for the Jumuiya Water Fund and potentially expand it to other African regions, producing results that matter.
Receive expert mentorship from TNC and Smithsonian scientists—a rare combination that blends academic rigor with practical implementation, leading to both high-quality research and real-world policy applications .
As a fellow, you’ll conduct original research, write for peer-reviewed journals, and speak at global conferences. You’ll also gain advanced training in science communications, ensuring your work influences policy and practitioners.
Enjoy Nairobi-based collaboration with travel to Water Fund sites, a hybrid working model, and full support for logistics—no need to worry about research expenses or administration.
Supported by TNC’s mission-driven platform and Smithsonian’s scientific credibility, this fellowship carries significant professional weight and sets you on a leadership path in conservation.
Graduates emerge with project implementation experience, international institutional credentials, and visibility—providing a strong foundation for a high-impact career.
This is not just a fellowship—it’s an invitation to shape the future of conservation and ecosystem finance in Africa and beyond. With advanced mentorship, applied health impact research, and institutional weight, it’s the ultimate career accelerator for conservation scientists.
Name of Organizer
The Nature Conservancy (in partnership with Smithsonian Institution)
Requirement/Eligibility
1. PhD in natural or social science relevant to conservation, awarded no more than 4 years before fellowship start.
2. 1–2 years of postdoctoral or equivalent experience.
3. Proven ability in scientific writing and peer-reviewed publication.
4. Strong analytical skills in quantitative or qualitative methods.
5. Experience in grant writing or fundraising is a plus.
6. Fluent English – written and verbal communication.
7. Legal authorization to live and work in Kenya; immigration support not provided.
8. Willing to be based in Nairobi with hybrid work (min. 2 days/week in office).
9. Ready to commit to a full 3-year term, beginning October 1, 2025.
10. Passion for interdisciplinary, community-focused conservation, especially linking nature and health.
Duration/Stipend
This 3-year fixed-term fellowship runs from October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2028. Fellows receive:
A competitive annual salary of 3,531,100–4,201,890 KES, equitable across Nairobi roles
Dedicated research funding for travel, conferences, and publication
Advanced communications training and professional skill development throughout the cohort
Mentorship from TNC and Smithsonian experts, with field deployment in Kenyan and possibly Tanzanian Water Funds
This generous package ensures you can focus on producing peer-reviewed publications, influencing policy, and delivering real-world impact without financial worry.
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