WORLD WIDE FUND (WWF)
WWF Russell E. Train Fellowships 2026–2027: Conservation Research Funding for ...
- Master's and PhD DegreesStudy Level
- Up to ~USD 30,000 per yearFunding Amount
- Up to 3 yearsDuration
- Focus on Conservation ResearchField of Study
- Two specialized fellowshipsProgram Structure
- Deadline Dec 15, 2026 (est.)Next Deadline
At a glance
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Funding
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Max amount
Rolling
Deadline
Uganda
Country
World Wide Fund (WWF)
Provider
The WWF Russell E. Train Fellowships, offered by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) through its Education for Nature (EFN) Program, provide funding for postgraduate studies in conservation and related disciplines. This initiative aims to cultivate conservation leaders, researchers, and practitioners who can address pressing environmental challenges. Established as part of WWF’s broader efforts in education, the program supports both Master's and PhD level studies, contributing to strengthened conservation science and local leadership. The fellowships feature specialized opportunities, including the Human-Wildlife Conflicts in Uganda Fellowship, which focuses on practical solutions to human-elephant conflict, particularly around Murchison Falls National Park in Uganda. Another key component is the WWF Conservation Futures Fellowship, supporting research that integrates Indigenous peoples and local communities' knowledge into conservation strategies. The program offers up to ~US$30,000 per year for doctoral candidates and up to ~US$15,000 per year for Master's students, for durations of up to 2-3 years depending on the degree level. Since its inception, the EFN program has supported thousands of conservation professionals globally, reflecting WWF's commitment to building capacity for environmental protection. These fellowships are critical for fostering evidence-based environmental management and community-led conservation practices. Treat the figures and dates here as estimates and confirm current-cycle details on the official website.
What's covered
- Tuition and Academic Fees — Covers the cost of university tuition and other mandatory academic fees, up to ~USD 30,000 per year (est.).
- Living Expenses — Financial support for daily living costs such as accommodation, food, and utilities.
- Books and Learning Materials — Funds to purchase required textbooks, journals, and other educational resources.
- Research-Related Costs — Support for expenses directly associated with the fellow's research, including field work, equipment, and data collection.
- Travel (for research) — May cover travel costs for conducting research, attending conferences, or engaging with communities as part of the approved research plan.
How to apply
To apply for the WWF Russell E. Train Fellowships, candidates must consult the official WWF Education for Nature website for specific guidelines and application forms. The application process typically involves developing a detailed research proposal and submitting it by the specified deadline.
- Visit the Official Website — Go to the official WWF Education for Nature website to access the application guidelines and forms for the relevant fellowship (Human-Wildlife Conflicts in Uganda or Conservation Futures).
- Review Eligibility and Requirements — Carefully read all eligibility criteria and specific requirements for the fellowship you intend to apply for, paying attention to nationality, study level, and research focus.
- Develop a Research Proposal — Prepare a focused research proposal that clearly identifies a conservation challenge, outlines the proposed methodology, and demonstrates measurable benefits for wildlife and local communities.
- Prepare a Realistic Budget — Create a detailed and realistic budget outlining how the requested funds (up to ~USD 15,000 or ~USD 30,000 per year) will be used for tuition, living expenses, books, and research costs.
- Submit Application — Complete the application form and submit all required documents by the stated deadline, ensuring all eligibility requirements are satisfied.
Eligibility
NationalityVaries by fellowship. Human-Wildlife Conflicts in Uganda Fellowship requires Ugandan nationality. Conservation Futures Fellowship is open to applicants from WWF-US priority areas (Belize, Bhutan, Bolivia, Brazil, Cambodia, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chile, Colombia, DRC, Ecuador, Fiji, French Guiana, Gabon, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Indonesia, Kenya, Laos, Madagascar, Malaysia, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nepal, Paraguay, Peru, Republic of Congo, Suriname, Tanzania, Uganda, Vietnam, Zambia).
Study LevelMaster’s or PhD programme at an accredited institution.
Academic StandingHold a bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline (e.g., biology, ecology, conservation). Must be enrolled in, admitted to, or have applied to a postgraduate program.
Research FocusPropose research aligned with conservation goals. For the Uganda fellowship, focus on human-elephant conflict near Murchison Falls National Park. For the Conservation Futures fellowship, focus on advancing conservation knowledge, strengthening skills, capacities, and participation of Indigenous peoples and local communities.
Applicants should demonstrate a clear interest in conservation, research, and practical approaches to improving human-wildlife coexistence, as well as a commitment to collaborative conservation research and community engagement.
Eligible countries
Uganda, Belize, Bhutan, Bolivia, Brazil, Cambodia, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chile, Colombia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ecuador, Fiji, French Guiana, Gabon, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Indonesia, Kenya, Laos, Madagascar, Malaysia, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nepal, Paraguay, Peru, Republic of the Congo, Suriname, Tanzania, Vietnam, Zambia
Deadlines
Conservation Futures (est.)2026-04-15
Human-Wildlife Conflicts in Uganda2026-12-15
Selection
Selection of WWF Russell E. Train Fellows is based on the strength of their research proposal, alignment with program objectives, and demonstrated commitment to conservation. Proposals are assessed for their clarity, realistic budget, and potential to inform conservation policy or improve community participation. Academic preparation and the relevance of the proposed research to practical environmental solutions are also key factors in the selection process.
Verified sources
- WWF Education for Nature Programworldwildlife.orgofficial
About the provider
The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) is one of the world's largest independent conservation organizations, founded in 1961. It works to conserve nature and reduce the most pressing threats to the diversity of life on Earth. The Education for Nature (EFN) Program is a key initiative fostering conservation leadership globally.
Frequently asked questions
Answers below are best-effort estimates from the most recent application cycle. Values marked ~ or (est.) may shift year-to-year — confirm specifics on the official scholarship page.
What is the WWF Russell E. Train Fellowship?
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The WWF Russell E. Train Fellowship is a postgraduate funding opportunity offered by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) through its Education for Nature (EFN) Program. It supports Master's and PhD students pursuing studies in conservation and related disciplines.
What does the scholarship cover?
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The fellowship provides comprehensive funding that may cover tuition and academic fees, living expenses, books and learning materials, and research-related costs. The exact coverage depends on the individual fellowship and approved budget.
What is the award value?
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Fellows may receive up to ~US$15,000 per year for Master’s programs and up to ~US$30,000 per year for PhD programs. The final amount is determined by the scope and requirements of the approved proposal.
Who is eligible to apply for this fellowship?
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Eligibility varies by fellowship. Generally, applicants must be enrolled in or admitted to a Master’s or PhD program in a relevant field and demonstrate a commitment to conservation. Specific fellowships have additional nationality and research focus requirements.
Which countries are eligible for this fellowship?
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Eligible countries include Uganda for the Human-Wildlife Conflicts in Uganda Fellowship. The Conservation Futures Fellowship is open to applicants from WWF-US priority areas, including various countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
Which study levels are supported by the fellowship?
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The WWF Russell E. Train Fellowships support students pursuing both Master’s (postgraduate) and PhD (doctoral) degrees in conservation or related disciplines.
What is the application deadline for the upcoming cycle?
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The application deadline for the Human-Wildlife Conflicts in Uganda Fellowship is December 15, 2026. While the Conservation Futures Fellowship for the 2026 cycle has closed, future rounds are expected with an estimated deadline of April 15, 2027 for a new cycle.
How do I apply for the Russell E. Train Fellowships?
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Applicants should visit the official WWF Education for Nature website to find detailed guidelines and application forms. The application typically involves submitting a strong research proposal, academic credentials, and a realistic budget.
What documents are required for the application?
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Required documents generally include a completed application form, a detailed research proposal, academic transcripts, proof of program enrollment/admission, a CV, and a budget proposal. Letters of recommendation are also typically expected.
How are fellowship recipients selected?
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Recipients are selected based on the quality of their research proposal, its relevance to conservation challenges, and the applicant's academic background and commitment to community engagement. The potential impact of the research is a key consideration.
What is the duration of the fellowship and is it renewable?
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Funding is provided for up to two years for Master’s programs and up to three years for PhD programs. While the page text does not explicitly mention renewal, awards are generally for the full duration within these limits based on satisfactory progress.
Where can I confirm the current cycle's details?
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All specific details, including the most current deadlines, eligibility requirements, and application forms, should be confirmed on the official WWF Education for Nature website.