LEGO Foundation Fellowship 2027 Opens Applications for Early- and Mid-Career Researchers Worldwide ·LEGO Foundation

Overview

The LEGO Foundation Fellowship is a prestigious global research fellowship designed to support early- and mid-career researchers whose work advances understanding of how children thrive in diverse contexts. It provides substantial funding and international collaboration opportunities for researchers committed to improving outcomes for children worldwide.

Eligibility

• Hold a PhD or equivalent research doctorate by 31 July 2026
• Received their doctorate no earlier than 1 January 2016
• Employed by a university or research institute at the start of the fellowship
• Have institutional capacity to administer fellowship funds
• Submit an individual application
• Propose research aligned with one or more fellowship themes

Researchers from most countries are eligible to apply, except those located in countries subject to relevant EU or US sanctions.

Benefits

• USD 300,000 in flexible funding over three years
• Institutional administration of research funds
• Support for personnel, travel, equipment, and dissemination
• Access to an international interdisciplinary cohort
• Participation in annual convenings and virtual sessions
• Opportunities to engage with researchers, practitioners, and policymakers
• Visibility through LEGO Foundation communication platforms
• Recognition within the LEGO Foundation network

Selected fellows will create a vibrant community of researchers working to improve children's lives through evidence-based approaches.

How to Apply

Applicants must submit:

• Online application form
• Two-page curriculum vitae (CV)
• 250-word research abstract
• 500-word personal statement
• Five-page research proposal
• Budget and budget justification
• Two-page selected bibliography

The personal statement should explain motivation for researching childhood development and how the research will strengthen leadership in translating evidence into practice.

Deadline

Applications Open: 1 June 2026
Application Deadline: 31 July 2026
Results Notification: November 2026
Fellowship Period: 1 February 2027 – 31 December 2029