University of Cape Town RAENS Masters Bursary 2027–2028: R200,000 Annual Funding for Agroecology Research in South Africa
The Research for Agroecology Network Southern Africa (RAENS) is offering a full-time Master's bursary at the University of Cape Town to investigate agroecological transitions in South Africa. The award provides an annual tax-free stipend of R200,000 for two years, alongside fieldwork funding and fee coverage.
Overview
The Research for Agroecology Network Southern Africa (RAENS) Masters Bursary 2027–2028 is hosted by the Department of Environmental and Geographical Science under the DSTI/NRF Research Chair: Environmental and Social Dimensions of the Bio-economy at the University of Cape Town (UCT). The selected student will conduct independent yet collaborative research on either ecological and biophysical dimensions or social and economic dimensions of agroecological transitions, involving extensive fieldwork and engagement with rural communities across multiple pilot sites in South Africa.
Financial support includes a tax-free bursary of R200,000 per year for a duration of two years (running from January 2027 to December 2028), additional support for fieldwork costs, and coverage of UCT fees. Note that benefits, personal travel, and relocation expenses are not covered by the award.
Eligibility
- Must hold an Honours degree in a relevant field (such as environmental science, conservation, anthropology, sociology, development studies, geography, botany, agriculture, or closely related disciplines) with a minimum grade of 65%.
- The Honours degree must have been awarded within the last five years.
- Must not already possess a research Master's degree.
- Preference is given to South African candidates from historically excluded and disadvantaged groups, in line with UCT's commitment to redress.
- Desired competencies include strong research, analytical, and communication skills, familiarity with agroecology, an interdisciplinary background, qualitative and quantitative methods experience, a computer-literate profile, and a valid driver's licence.
How to Apply
Applicants must prepare and submit the following required application materials:
- A detailed letter of motivation outlining background, research interests, and alignment with the RAENS project.
- A comprehensive curriculum vitae (CV).
- Official academic transcripts.
- Contact information for two professional or academic referees.
Additionally, successful candidates must complete a separate Master's admission application through the Department of Environmental and Geographical Science at UCT, though applicants are advised to await the outcome of the RAENS scholarship before submitting their university application.
Deadline
Applications for the RAENS Master's scholarship close on 21 September 2026 at 9:00 S.A.S.T. The separate UCT Master's application deadline is 30 September 2026.