The Make Our Planet Great Again (MOPGA) Fellowship Program is an exceptional initiative launched by the French government to support early-career researchers from around the world. The program reflects France’s strong commitment to addressing global environmental challenges and advancing the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement. It offers international researchers the opportunity to carry out high-level research in France, focusing on issues related to climate change, biodiversity, and sustainability.
This 12-month fellowship provides a unique platform for scientists and researchers to collaborate with French institutions and contribute to innovative research that promotes sustainable solutions for the planet. The program aims to attract brilliant minds whose work contributes to understanding and mitigating the effects of climate change while strengthening international scientific cooperation.
Research Focus Areas
Applicants are encouraged to propose projects that align with one or more of the program’s priority research themes. These include:
- Earth System Sciences – Studies focusing on planetary processes, environmental dynamics, and global ecosystems.
- Climate Change and Sustainability Science – Projects addressing climate adaptation, mitigation strategies, and sustainable development models.
- Energy Transition – Research on renewable energy technologies, sustainable energy systems, and green innovation.
- Societal and Environmental Interactions – Projects that explore how societies respond to environmental change and the socio-economic implications of sustainability.
- One Health Approach – Studies that link environmental, human, and animal health to promote a holistic understanding of global well-being.
Projects must demonstrate a strong environmental dimension, particularly under the One Health theme. Proposals limited solely to medical or human-health aspects without ecological or animal relevance will not be considered.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the MOPGA Fellowship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be non-French citizens.
- Hold a Ph.D. degree obtained within the last five years at the time of application.
- Not have lived in France for more than 90 days during the 12 months preceding the application deadline.
- Be able to present a clear and feasible research proposal in collaboration with a French host institution.
These criteria ensure that the program remains open to diverse, talented researchers while encouraging international collaboration and mobility.
Fellowship Benefits
Successful candidates receive comprehensive support to facilitate their research stay in France. The benefits include:
- A monthly stipend of €2,500 for 12 months to cover living expenses.
- A one-time installation allowance of €500 to assist with settling in.
- Health insurance coverage including liability and repatriation, followed by French social security registration upon arrival.
- Official recognition as a French Government Scholar (Bourse du Gouvernement Français) under a research residency status.
It is important to note that the fellowship funds are allocated directly to the researcher, not the host laboratory. Therefore, applicants must secure a French host institution that agrees to provide necessary facilities, supervision, and a conducive research environment.
Application and Selection Process
Applicants must submit their research proposals and required documents through the official online portal. The selection process is conducted in two main phases: a scientific review by experts in the relevant fields, followed by evaluation and final selection by a dedicated committee.
The annual call for applications typically opens in September and closes in December, with results announced by mid-year. Selected fellows usually begin their research stay between September and December of the following year.
A strong application should include a well-defined research plan, a letter of commitment from a French host institution, academic transcripts, and references from previous supervisors.
Why Apply for the MOPGA Fellowship
The MOPGA Fellowship is more than just a funding opportunity it represents a gateway to global scientific impact. Fellows gain access to France’s advanced research infrastructure, interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities, and exposure to international networks. By participating, researchers become part of a worldwide effort to develop sustainable solutions for climate and environmental challenges.
This program fosters innovation, supports global knowledge exchange, and helps shape future leaders in environmental research. It is an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the planet’s future while advancing one’s academic and professional career in one of the world’s leading scientific environments.
Deadline: 12 December 2025
