The Make Our Planet Great Again (MOPGA) 2026 Fellowship in France is a special program for international young researchers. It gives them the chance to work on global challenges like climate change, sustainability, and environmental protection. This one-year fellowship supports postdoctoral researchers who want to make a real difference in science and society.
About the Scholarship
The MOPGA Fellowship was first launched in 2018 by the French government. It aims to support talented international scientists who wish to do research in France. The program is managed by Campus France and funded by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs (MEAE) and the Ministry of Higher Education and Research (MESR). It welcomes early career researchers who want to contribute to projects related to the environment, energy, and sustainability.
Host Country
France is the host country for the MOPGA 2026 Fellowship. Known for its world-class education and strong research institutions, France offers a great environment for scientific growth and international collaboration.
Host University
There is no fixed university for this fellowship. Applicants can choose any recognized French research institution or laboratory that agrees to host them. The host laboratory must provide full scientific and technical support for the research project.
Scholarship Type
This is a fully funded research fellowship for postdoctoral researchers. It focuses on research work rather than academic coursework.
Degree
The fellowship is open for researchers who already hold a PhD degree (doctorate). It is not a degree program but a funded research opportunity for PhD holders.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following conditions to apply:
Must be a non-French citizen
Must have completed their PhD between December 2020 and December 2025
Must not have lived in France for more than 90 days between September 12, 2025, and December 12, 2025
Must have a research project that fits one of the eligible scientific themes
Fields of Study
Applicants can apply in one of the following five major research areas:
Earth System Sciences
Climate Change and Sustainability
Energy Transition
Environmental and Societal Challenges
Human, Animal, and Environmental Health (One Health Approach)
Projects that include new and innovative technology ideas will receive special attention during the selection process.
Scholarship Benefits
Selected fellows will receive generous financial and practical support:
Monthly allowance of €2,500 for living expenses
One-time installation grant of €500
Full health and insurance coverage in France
Support from Campus France during the entire stay
Opportunity to work in a top French research institution
Recognition as a French Government Scholarship holder
The fellowship covers living and research expenses, but international travel costs are not included.
Required Documents
Applicants must upload the following documents in PDF format:
Curriculum Vitae (CV) with publications – max 4 pages
PhD diploma or official completion certificate
CV of the French host laboratory supervisor
Support letter signed by the host supervisor and lab director
Up to 3 recommendation letters
Copy of passport or official ID
Optional documents may include research figures, charts, or proof of parental leave.
Application Process
Applicants need to complete their application online through the official Campus France portal:
Write a clear and well-organized research proposal in English or French.
Make sure your host institution in France agrees to support your project.
Submit your online form before the deadline.
Wait for the evaluation and selection results.
Registration Deadlines
Application opens: September 12, 2025
Deadline to apply: December 12, 2025
Results announced: May or June 2026
Research start date: Between September and December 2026
Selection Process
The selection happens in two steps:
First, scientific experts from the Ministry of Higher Education and Research review all applications.
Then, a final committee selects the most promising candidates based on research quality, relevance to MOPGA themes, and collaboration potential.
Applicants with strong, innovative, and impactful projects will have a higher chance of selection.
Tips to Succeed
Write your proposal in clear and simple language.
Choose a research topic directly connected to environmental or climate issues.
Show how your work supports the Paris Agreement goals.
Highlight your international collaborations and your project’s impact on your home country.
Ask strong referees to write recommendation letters.
Contact your host lab early to secure their official support letter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I apply if I already live in France? No, applicants who have stayed in France for more than 90 days in the given period are not eligible.
Can I apply if my PhD is not yet issued? Yes, but you must provide an official completion certificate from your university.
Is the program open to all nationalities? Yes, applicants from any country outside France can apply.
Can I bring my family to France? Yes, but the fellowship does not cover family expenses.
Do I need to speak French? No, you can complete your application and research in English.
Why Choose This Scholarship
This fellowship gives you a chance to work with top French scientists and research teams on important global problems. It also helps you build an international career, improve your research profile, and gain experience in one of the world’s leading research environments. It’s a great opportunity for anyone passionate about sustainability and climate science.
Career and Future Opportunities
After completing the MOPGA fellowship, participants can:
Continue their research in international or French institutions
Publish their work in top journals
Collaborate with global environmental researchers
Build strong professional networks for future academic or policy-related roles
Student Experiences
Past fellows describe MOPGA as a life-changing experience. They highlight the program’s supportive environment, strong research infrastructure, and the opportunity to explore innovative ideas freely in France.
The MOPGA 2026 Visiting Fellowship is an excellent opportunity for early-career researchers who want to make a difference in global environmental science. France offers not only funding but also world-class research facilities, mentorship, and cultural experience. If you are passionate about protecting the planet and advancing sustainability, this program is the perfect step for your scientific journey.
