Since its launch in 2018, France’s Make Our Planet Great Again (MOPGA) initiative has stood as a beacon for global researchers eager to contribute to the fight against climate change.
With its 2026 edition now accepting applications, this prestigious 12-month research fellowship is once again opening doors to early career international researchers ready to explore solutions to today’s most urgent environmental issues—in collaboration with some of France’s top research institutions.
A Climate Commitment Turned Global Opportunity
Born from France’s reaffirmed commitment to the Paris Agreement, the MOPGA program is one of the country’s flagship international research funding schemes. It’s administered by Campus France and funded by the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs (MEAE) in partnership with the Ministry of Higher Education and Research (MESR).
This year marks the ninth call for applications, and the 2026 edition aims to reinforce scientific contributions to topics discussed at the annual Conferences of the Parties (COP)—with a strong emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and international collaboration.
Who Can Apply?
The fellowship targets early career researchers from around the world who do not hold French citizenship, have earned a PhD within the last five years, and have not resided in France for more than 90 days between September 12 and December 12, 2025.
Whether you’re a climate scientist, a sustainability expert, or a One Health researcher, this program offers you the opportunity to deepen your research while contributing to the global scientific community’s response to climate and environmental crises.
Research Areas That Matter
MOPGA 2026 focuses on five priority themes:
- Earth System Sciences
- Climate Change and Sustainability Science
- Energy Transition
- Societal Challenges Related to Environmental Issues
- Human, Animal, and Environmental Health under the One Health approach
Proposals that demonstrate innovative methodologies or technologies and those adopting a holistic, interdisciplinary perspective—especially within the One Health framework—will receive priority consideration during selection.
What’s Included in the Fellowship?
Selected fellows will benefit from:
- €2,500/month living allowance
- A €500 relocation grant
- Health insurance, civil liability coverage, and repatriation assistance
- A 12-month fully funded research stay at a French institution
- The status of French Government Scholarship holder (BGF)
Importantly, while host laboratories offer scientific and logistical support, the fellowship funds go directly to the researcher, not the institution. This setup ensures independence and clarity in project implementation.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the official portal:
https://campusfrance.smapply.io/prog/mopga-2027/
Applications can be submitted in English or French, and must include:
- Research Project Title and Abstract
- Six keywords
- Detailed research proposal (including objectives, methods, timeline, and international impact)
- CV (max. 4 pages)
- PhD diploma or completion certificate
- Scientific advisor’s CV and support letter (co-signed by lab director or accompanied by separate endorsement)
- Up to 3 letters of recommendation
- Passport or ID
Timeline at a Glance
- Applications open: October , 2026
- Applications close: December 15, 2026
- Results announced: May–June 2027
- Research stays begin: Between September and December 2027
Given the program’s competitive nature and the technical review process by scientific committees, applicants are encouraged to start early and carefully tailor their proposals to align with the program’s mission and France’s strategic research priorities.
Why Choose MOPGA?
The MOPGA Fellowship is more than just a grant—it’s a platform for influence. Past laureates have gone on to publish high-impact research, build international collaborations, and bring critical environmental innovations back to their home countries.
This program is particularly valuable for researchers from regions already bearing the brunt of climate change. MOPGA not only supports scientific inquiry but also amplifies the global South’s voice in shaping future climate solutions.
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A Call to Climate-Conscious Researchers
If you’re an early career researcher ready to join a global movement for planetary health and scientific innovation, MOPGA 2027 is your invitation. France is opening its doors to international talent—offering not just funding, but a chance to be part of the solution to one of humanity’s greatest challenges.
Don’t miss your chance to contribute. Apply before December 15, 2026, and bring your expertise to one of the world’s most dynamic and environmentally committed research ecosystems.
