Do you enjoy the challenge of supporting children to learn, grow, and succeed as a researcher? For the 40th anniversary of the LEGO Foundation, the foundation has announced a new global research fellowship. They’re seeking early to mid-career researchers who are dedicated to developing evidence that can lead to action in the real world for children.
All you have to know about this thrilling opportunity!
What does the Fellowship do?
The LEGO Foundation Fellowship offers flexible financial support for three years for those with clear, ambitious and rigorous ideas. To reinforce learning in their understanding of the ways in which children flourish in a range of settings.
You will not only be funded as a fellow, you will be part of a network of other researchers around the world. This community will provide you with a platform for idea sharing, feedback and communicating your results to policy makers and practice audiences.
Which areas of the research do the Research Themes cover?
The research you plan to undertake should fall under one of these three general research themes:
Children in Crisis: Supporting the resilience, development and family environments of youngest children (birth to eight years) living in conflict and crisis situations.
Neurodivergent Children: Improving the inclusion, learning environments and overall wellbeing of neurodivergent children (up to 18 years old) in particular with a focus on Autism and ADHD.
AI and Children: Mapping the impact of AI on the lives, social-emotional growth, and learning experiences of children (up to 18 years old).
Note: This is an elective topic for your research and investigation on the concept of “play.”
Who Can Apply?
The fellowships will be available to those who meet the following standards:
Must be early- or mid-career researcher from any country in the world (excluding sanctioned countries of US or EU).
PhD or equivalent research doctorate is required by July 31, 2026.
Must have PhD degree awarded after January 1, 2016 (but career breaks will be considered).
Applicants must have a current position within a university/ a research institute at the time of appointment for the fellowship.
Your host institution needs to have the capability to manage the fellowship money.
The Important Details
Fellowship stipend: The amount of the fellowship is $300,000 for three years (15% for indirect costs).
Covered Costs: These will include costs for project personnel, professional travel, equipment, dissemination, and project costs.
The last date of application is 31st July 2026.
The dates for the Fellowship program are February 1, 2027, through December 31, 2029.
How to Apply
All applications should be submitted via their online application. Several documents will be requested – a standard application form, a short resume (two pages maximum), a research abstract, a 500 word personal statement, a detailed research proposal, a budget, and a selected bibliography.
You can contact the SSRC’s support team, legofellowship@ssrc.org, directly with any questions regarding the application process.
