ul Haq Early Career Scholarships 2026 for PhD Students and Researchers @Human Development and Capability Association (HDCA)

Overview

The Human Development and Capability Association (HDCA), in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme’s Human Development Report Office (UNDP/HDRO), is accepting applications for the ul Haq Early Career Scholarships 2026. This mentorship programme is designed for outstanding early-career researchers committed to advancing the field of human development and capabilities.

Eligibility

• Be enrolled in a PhD programme in any discipline, or
• Be an early-career researcher within 5 years of completing a PhD.
• Submit a writing sample (5,000–8,000 words) such as:
  • Journal article
  • Book chapter
  • Thesis excerpt

Benefits

• Recognition as an ul Haq Scholar by HDCA and UNDP/HDRO
• Free HDCA membership throughout the scholarship period
• Personalized mentorship from leading experts in human development
• Support to publish in the Journal of Human Development and Capabilities (JHDC)
• Opportunity to present research in a global HDCA webinar
• Access to a global network of academics, practitioners, and policymakers

How to Apply

Interested candidates should prepare their application materials, including a strong academic writing sample, and submit before the deadline. More details can be found by clicking the application link below.

Deadline

Application Deadline: 15 May 2026

Scholar Responsibilities

• Join and actively participate in HDCA thematic and regional groups
• Maintain active HDCA membership
• Present at least one HDRO–HDCA joint webinar
• Develop and submit a research paper to the Journal of Human Development and Capabilities, with guidance from an assigned mentor