Oppenheimer Generations Research and Conservation (OGRC) has opened applications for its annual Jennifer Ward Oppenheimer (JWO) Research Grant.
This prestigious grant provides early-career African scientists with the resources to pioneer transformative solutions that will shape the future of sustainability, biodiversity, and conservation.
Now in its seventh year, the JWO Research Grant continues to champion
environmental research on the African continent and is seeking applications from visionary scientists whose work will bring clarity, innovation, and sustainable solutions to Africa’s most pressing environmental challenges.
“This is a unique award that addresses an important gap in the development of young African scientists. Whilst annually there can only be one winner, we would encourage those who have previously applied for the JWO Grant to apply again,” said head of Oppenheimer Generations Research and Conservation Dr Duncan MacFadyen.
“We are confident that the winning contributions will continue to not only enhance how we better manage our natural environment but also ensure the continued advancement of impactful science on our continent.”
“We strongly believe this grant will enable early career scientists to pursue their work and propose new and innovative solutions that will help develop Africa in a sustainable way.”
The Jennifer Ward Oppenheimer Research Grant (JWO Research Grant) was established in 2019 to honour the legacy of the late Jennifer Ward Oppenheimer, a distinguished pioneer in African education and environmental science.
Since its inception, the JWO Research Grant has been instrumental in advancing vital research initiatives across the continent, with early-career scholars and scientists specialising in various environmental disciplines.
These include biodiversity, microplastics, and disease vectors, all eagerly seeking this grant to explore innovative research topics aimed at addressing the unique challenges confronting Africa’s natural environment.
As it approaches almost a decade of existence, the JWO Research Grant is aiming to attract an even greater number of early-career scientists to apply in 2025, offering them the opportunity to receive a transformative award.
The 2025 JWO Research Grant of $150,000 will be awarded to one successful applicant and will support a research project or programme of up to three years.
The grant recipient will be announced at the Oppenheimer Research Conference on the October 16, 2025.
Grant eligibility criteria
- The lead applicant should be an early-career African scientist with strong links to a credible African
institution and proposing to conduct research on the continent. - The 2025 JWO Research Grant encourages transdisciplinary research applications that demonstrate
a strong link to biodiversity and conservation.
To apply for the grant, follow this link
For more opportunities visit Expression Africa
