ul Haq Early Career Scholarships 2026 for PhD Students and Researchers ·Human Development and Capability Association (HDCA)

Overview

The Human Development and Capability Association (HDCA), in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme’s Human Development Report Office (UNDP/HDRO), is accepting applications for the ul Haq Early Career Scholarships 2026. This mentorship programme is designed for outstanding early-career researchers committed to advancing the field of human development and capabilities.

Eligibility

• Be enrolled in a PhD programme in any discipline, or
• Be an early-career researcher within 5 years of completing a PhD.
• Submit a writing sample (5,000–8,000 words) such as:
  • Journal article
  • Book chapter
  • Thesis excerpt

Benefits

• Recognition as an ul Haq Scholar by HDCA and UNDP/HDRO
• Free HDCA membership throughout the scholarship period
• Personalized mentorship from leading experts in human development
• Support to publish in the Journal of Human Development and Capabilities (JHDC)
• Opportunity to present research in a global HDCA webinar
• Access to a global network of academics, practitioners, and policymakers

How to Apply

Interested candidates should prepare their application materials, including a strong academic writing sample, and submit before the deadline. More details can be found by clicking the application link below.

Deadline

Application Deadline: 15 May 2026

Scholar Responsibilities

• Join and actively participate in HDCA thematic and regional groups
• Maintain active HDCA membership
• Present at least one HDRO–HDCA joint webinar
• Develop and submit a research paper to the Journal of Human Development and Capabilities, with guidance from an assigned mentor