Attention Researchers and Academics in India: A prestigious international fellowship opportunity is closing soon.
The Merian Centre for Advanced Studies in the Maghreb (MECAM), based in Tunis, has announced the deadline for its Individual Fellowships for the academic year 2026-2027. If you are a postdoctoral researcher in the Humanities or Social Sciences, this is your chance to work in an international environment with full funding.
The application window closes strictly on March 2, 2026. Here is everything Indian scholars need to know about the eligibility, benefits, and how to apply before the date passes.
What is the MECAM Fellowship?
MECAM is an international research centre that promotes cooperation between scholars from the Maghreb (North Africa), Europe, and other regions, including Asia.
For the 2026-2027 cycle, MECAM is inviting eight researchers (postdoctoral and advanced) to live and work in Tunis, Tunisia for eight months. The program is designed for scholars who want to explore the main theme: “Imagining Futures: Dealing with Disparity.”
Key Details at a Glance
- Deadline: March 2, 2026 (at 12:30 PM CEST).
- Fellowship Duration: September 1, 2026 – April 30, 2027 (8 months).
- Location: Tunis, Tunisia.
- Number of Seats: 8 Fellowships.
- Eligibility: Scholars from all countries (including India) can apply.
Research Themes (Important for Your Proposal)
To get selected, your research proposal must align with MECAM’s specific themes. Your project should focus on “Imagining Futures” and fall under one of these five Interdisciplinary Research Fields (IRFs):
- Aesthetics & Cultural Practice (Art, culture, and representations).
- Inequality & Mobility (Migration, social class, and movement).
- Memory & Justice (History, post-conflict societies, and legal justice).
- Resources & Sustainability (Environment, economy, and sustainable development).
- Identities & Beliefs (Religion, social identity, and diversity).
What Are the Benefits for Selected Fellows?
This is a fully funded fellowship, making it highly attractive for Indian researchers.
- Monthly Stipend: You will receive a generous monthly allowance to cover living costs.
- Travel Costs: The fellowship covers travel expenses to and from Tunis (No gain/No loss principle).
- Relocation Support: Costs for moving are compensated.
- Research Costs: Up to €1,000 provided for research-related expenses.
- Workspace: You get a shared office in Tunis and access to library resources.
- Networking: A chance to collaborate with top scholars from Germany, Tunisia, and across the globe.
Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, ensure you meet these simple requirements:
- Education: You must hold a PhD (Postdoctoral level) or be an advanced researcher. PhD students are not eligible.
- Field: Your research must be in Humanities or Social Sciences.
- Language: You must be proficient in English or French (as these are the working languages).
- Residency: You must be willing to live in Tunis for the full 8 months of the fellowship.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
The application process is entirely online. Do not send applications via email.
- Prepare Your Documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): 2–3 pages, including your publication list.
- Research Proposal: A short abstract of your project (Maximum 1,000 words).
- Writing Sample: One recent article, book chapter, or thesis chapter.
- References: Names and contact details of two academic referees (you do not need the letters yet, just the names).
- Visit the Portal: Go to the secure online platform of the Forum Transregionale Studien (MECAM’s partner).
- Submit Before Deadline: Upload all documents and submit your form before 12:30 PM (CEST) on March 2, 2026.
Note: Late applications are automatically rejected. Indian applicants should calculate the time difference carefully (CEST is behind Indian Standard Time).
Why This Matters for Indian Scholars?
Getting a MECAM fellowship is a significant career booster. It allows Indian academics to step out of the local system and engage in “South-South-North” dialogue. It is especially valuable for those studying Global South issues, post-colonial studies, migration, or Islamic studies, as North Africa shares many historical and social parallels with South Asia
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can Indian citizens apply for the MECAM Fellowship?
Yes, the call is open to researchers from all countries, including India. There is no nationality restriction.
2. Do I need to speak Arabic to apply?
No, knowledge of Arabic is not mandatory. However, you must be fluent in either English or French to participate in seminars and discussions.
3. Is there an application fee?
No, applying for the MECAM fellowship is completely free.
4. Can I apply if my PhD is not yet finished?
No. This fellowship is strictly for postdoctoral researchers. You must have your PhD degree in hand at the time of application or before the fellowship starts.
5. What happens if I miss the March 2 deadline?
The system usually closes automatically. If you miss this date, you will have to wait for the next academic cycle (likely 2027-2028).