The STARS Fellowship Program (Fully Funded)

The STARS Fellowship Program 2025 is a collaborative initiative managed by Cornell University, in partnership with the Center for Global Development (CGD), the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), the World Bank's Development Research Group, and the Partnership for Economic Policy (PEP). This program is designed to support early-career researchers focusing on critical issues in agriculture and rural development. (IICA Repository)

Fellowship Overview:

Duration: 15 months, beginning upon selection in April 2025.

Research Focus: Topics include agricultural productivity, risk management, food security, gender inclusion in rural areas, and other themes related to structural transformation in low and lower-middle-income countries. 

Eligibility: Open to early-career researchers, including Ph.D. students in their final year or those who have completed their Ph.D. no earlier than 2019. Priority is given to researchers who have earned at least one degree from an institution in a low or lower-middle-income country and plan to work professionally in such countries. Qualified female researchers are particularly encouraged to apply. 

Research Themes:

Applicants are encouraged to develop proposals in the following thematic areas:

1. Dynamics of agricultural inputs use, technological change, and productivity growth.

2. Rural factor and product market performance and links to urban markets.

3. Agri-food systems and value chains, their performance and evolution.

4. Food security, nutrition, health, and education linkages.

5. Poverty dynamics, risk management, and resilience against shocks.

6. Sustainable natural resources management.

7. Gender and marginalized groups. 

(IICA Repository)

Fellowship Benefits and Support:

Funding: Covers travel and participation expenses for a three-week mentorship program at Cornell University and the mentor’s home institution. A modest honorarium is provided; however, no salary support is available. 

Professional Development: Access to training workshops, mentorship from experienced researchers, and opportunities to present findings at scientific and policy conferences. (IICA Repository)

Application Requirements:

1. Research Proposal: A detailed proposal (maximum 2,500 words) outlining the intended research, data sources, methodology, and a plan for completion by June 30, 2026. 

2. Curriculum Vitae (CV): An up-to-date resume detailing academic and professional experience.

3. Letter of Support: A letter from the applicant’s current advisor or supervisor, indicating support and availability of adequate work time for full participation in the program. 

4. Proof of Data Access: Documentation demonstrating access to any non-public data proposed for use. 

Application Deadline:

Deadline for Submissions: January 17, 2025, at 11:59 PM Eastern Standard Time. 

How to Apply:

Interested applicants should submit their proposals via the STARS online application link provided in the official call for research proposals. An informational webinar is scheduled for December 12, 2024, from 9:00 – 10:00 AM Eastern Time. Registration details and additional information are available in the official call document. 

About the STARS Fellowship:

The STARS Fellowship program aims to empower the next generation of researchers in agriculture and rural development by supporting early-career scholars in generating valuable insights and solutions to global challenges in agriculture, food security, and sustainable development. 

For more detailed information, including the application process and research themes, please refer to the official call for research proposals. STARS Application Website

The STARS Fellowship Program has a significant impact on advancing research and development in agriculture and rural transformation. Here are the key impacts:

1. Strengthening Agricultural Research Capacity

The program nurtures early-career researchers, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to tackle pressing challenges in agriculture and rural development.

Fellows gain exposure to advanced research methodologies, improving the quality and relevance of their work.

2. Promoting Evidence-Based Policy Development

Research conducted by fellows addresses critical issues such as food security, gender equity, sustainable resource management, and rural poverty alleviation.

The insights generated inform policies that can transform agricultural practices and rural livelihoods in low- and lower-middle-income countries.

3. Encouraging Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing

By bringing together researchers from diverse backgrounds, the program fosters collaboration and the exchange of ideas.

Fellows participate in mentorship programs, workshops, and conferences, strengthening global networks among scholars and policymakers.

4. Empowering Underrepresented Groups

The program prioritizes gender equity by encouraging female researchers to apply and contribute to the agricultural research landscape.

It also emphasizes inclusivity, providing opportunities for researchers from marginalized and underserved communities.

5. Catalyzing Sustainable Development

Research outputs contribute to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly goals related to poverty reduction, zero hunger, gender equality, and sustainable resource use.

The program's focus on practical, actionable research ensures that results directly benefit rural communities.

6. Building Long-Term Professional Capacity

Participants develop strong professional profiles, enhancing their career prospects and ability to lead future research initiatives.

They receive mentorship from experienced researchers, helping them navigate challenges and refine their focus areas.

By combining cutting-edge research, mentorship, and policy engagement, the STARS Fellowship Program fosters a new generation of leaders in agriculture and rural development.