African Women Breeders Invited to Apply for the New GROW Fellowship with Leadership and Research Training | Deadline:24 July 2026 ·Unknown

GROW Fellowship Summary

• Title:GROW Fellowship – Gender Responsive Research for Optimized Women-led Breeding Systems (Inaugural Cohort)
• Location:Africa (Non-Residential Fellowship)
• Application Deadline:24 July 2026, 23:59 East Africa Time (GMT+3)
• Contract Duration:Two-Year Non-Residential Fellowship

About the GROW Fellowship

The GROW Fellowship (Gender Responsive Research for Optimized Women-led Breeding Systems) is now accepting applications for its inaugural cohort.

This innovative programme aims to empower African women involved in crop and livestock breeding by providing leadership development, research skills, and networking opportunities.

Designed to boost the careers and visibility of women breeders, the fellowship promotes gender-responsive research, policy influence, and agricultural innovation across Africa.

The programme combines virtual learning with face-to-face sessions over two years, fostering a vibrant community of women leaders in agricultural research.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply, candidates must meet the following:

• Be an African citizen residing in Africa
• Be an African woman
• Hold at least a Master’s degree in plant or livestock breeding
• Have a minimum of 5 years of active experience in crop or livestock research and practice

• Be affiliated with a university, NARES, private company, or relevant organization involved in crop improvement
• Be fully committed to participating in all fellowship activities over two years
• Not be enrolled in any other AWARD Fellowship at the time of application

Fellowship Activities

Selected fellows will engage in a comprehensive leadership and research development programme, including:

Leadership Development

• Leadership and negotiation skills training
• Capacity building in gender-responsive breeding research

Mentorship

• Structured mentorship from experienced professionals

Networking Opportunities

• Knowledge-sharing forums
• Professional networking events
• Peer learning sessions with women leaders in agricultural research

Benefits of the Fellowship

Participants will gain opportunities to:

• Strengthen leadership and management skills
• Deepen expertise in gender-responsive breeding approaches
• Expand their professional networks across Africa

• Increase visibility within the agricultural research community
• Accelerate their careers in crop and livestock improvement
• Contribute to inclusive, gender-responsive agricultural innovation

How to Apply

Applications are exclusively accepted through the official online portal:

Before applying, review the application guidelines, FAQs, and programme brochure to ensure eligibility and a smooth application process.

Application Deadline

Closing Date: 24 July 2026 at 23:59 East Africa Time (GMT+3). No late submissions will be accepted.

About the Programme

The GROW Fellowship is part of the Gender Responsive and Women-Led Research and Development Programme, funded by the Gates Foundation and implemented by African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD), in partnership with GREAT (Gender-Responsive Researchers Equipped for Agricultural Transformation), Makerere University, and Cornell University.

Ready to lead agricultural innovation?
Apply now and be part of Africa’s next generation of women leaders in crop and livestock breeding!