The CLIFF-GRADS Programme is a joint initiative of the Global Research Alliance on Agricultural Greenhouse Gases (GRA), the Global Methane Hub (GMH), and the CGIAR Climate Action Science Program. It aims to build capability in early-career scientists from developing countries to conduct applied research in agriculture greenhouse gas emission quantification and mitigation. The program provides short-term (4-6 months) scientific training and research stays at host institutions globally.
Financial Benefits
- Grant Funding: Grants of $14,000 USD will be awarded to selected PhD students.
- Coverage: This grant typically supports travel, living costs, and research-related expenses during the research stay.
- Duration: Research stays are expected to be a minimum of 4 months and a maximum of 6 months. Extensions are possible only with additional external funding and mutual agreement between the student and supervisor.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be citizens of a developing country.
- Be undertaking their PhD in a university based in a developing country.
- Must not have previously been awarded a CLIFF-GRADS grant.
- Their research should focus on the measurement, modelling, quantification, and mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions, or carbon storage in agricultural systems relevant to developing countries (this may be in the context of enhancing food security).
- Preference will be given to students applying for opportunities outside their home country/country of study to encourage the building of global networks and connections.
Application Process
The application process for Round 7 is as follows:
- Application Deadline: Sunday, January 11, 2026, at 11:59 pm GMT.
- Application Submission: Applicants must complete the CLIFF-GRADS Round 7 online application form.
- Required Documents: The following documents must be merged into a single PDF file and submitted with the application:
- A 1-page motivation letter.
- A 1-page academic curriculum vitae (CV / Resume) that includes your contact details.
- A letter of support from your PhD supervisor at your current university.
- Research Opportunities: Applicants must apply for specific research opportunities listed in the call document.
- Selection Criteria: Applicants are selected based on their overall level of research experience, the relevance of their PhD thesis topic or other research experience to CLIFF-GRADS objectives, and the clarity of their description of how the CLIFF-GRADS experience will improve their scientific capability and contribute to their career.
- Notification: Successful applicants will be matched with a project and notified by email by Tuesday, April 21, 2026.
- Research Stay Start Date: Research stays must be started before the end of 2026.
Application Link:
Learn more about the Round 7 opportunities and how to apply in the call document, which can be accessed via the Global Research Alliance website.
