PEACE Action Next Gen Programme 2027 for Young Researchers and Innovators

The PEACE Action Next Gen Programme 2027 is a mentorship and professional development opportunity for young researchers and innovators in peace and conflict research. The application deadline is 31 October 2026 (23:59 CET) . Selected participants will join a programme running from January to October 2027, with workshops in Estonia and the Czech Republic. The programme combines mentorship, networking, and a Short-Term Scientific Mission (STSM). In addition, participants receive travel and accommodation reimbursement for the in-person workshops. The STSM grant is worth up to 1500 euro . Key Details: Application Deadline: 31 October 2026 (23:59 CET) Eligible Countries: COST full member states; COST cooperating member states; COST partner member states; European RTD Organisations; Near Neighbour Countries; COST Inclusiveness Target Countries (ITCs) encouraged Program Duration: January – October 2027 (programme period). STSM: up to 2 weeks between January – September 2027. Program Location: Various locations in Europe. First workshop: CEES Hub at Tallinn University (25–26 February 2027, Tallinn, Estonia). Second workshop: Peace Research Centre Prague at Charles University (20–21 September 2027, Prague, Czech Republic). STSM takes place at a host institution between January–September 2027. Funding/Benefits: up to 1500 euro Award Provider: PEACE Action network About this Program This fellowship supports Young Researchers and Innovators through structured mentoring and professional development. It includes two in-person workshops, individual mentorship with a senior researcher, and participation in the PEACE Action network. Participants may also undertake a Short-Term Scientific Mission at a host institution for up to two weeks. However, the programme does not fund research activities as such and does not provide a salary. Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must be aged 39 years or younger at the time of application. Applicants must have institutional affiliation to a COST full, cooperating or partner member state, a European RTD Organisation, or a Near Neighbour Country for financial support. Applicants must have completed a Master’s degree by the time of application. A PhD degree is not required. Applicants affiliated with COST Inclusiveness Target Countries (ITCs) are especially encouraged to apply. One CEEShub fellow position is reserved for applicants taking a critical-relational approach to security.

What Fellows Receive: Individual mentorship from a senior researcher; two in-person workshops with travel and accommodation covered; STSM grant of up to 1500 euro to finance up to 2-week stay; networking and professional development within the European peace research community; reimbursement for travel and accommodation needed to participate. Program Components Participate in two in-person workshops (kick-off and closing). Engage in individual mentorship with a senior researcher of the PEACE network. Undertake a Short-Term Scientific Mission at a host institution if applicable. Become a member of the PEACE Action network upon participation and actively engage with working groups and other activities. Number of Awards: Seven participants (one position reserved for a CEEShub fellow) Required Documents: Completed application form/registration form; CV (max. 2 pages, PDF); Proof of main affiliation (PDF; e.g., certificate of enrolment, employment contract, supervisor confirmation letter, staff badge) Level of Study: PhD students and early career researchers (applicants must have finished a Master’s degree by application time). PhD not required. How to Apply Interested applicants should complete the application process on the official programme page. Before applying, review the eligibility rules, prepare the required documents, and confirm your institutional affiliation. 👉 Visit the official fellowship page for details