Applications Open: KCFP Climate Resilience Fellowship 2026 – Call for Professional Mentors and Academic Supervisors

Application Deadline: March 5, 2026

Climate change remains one of the most pressing challenges of our time, especially for Commonwealth Small Island Developing States (SIDS) that face rising sea levels, extreme weather, and threats to livelihoods. The Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) is inviting expressions of interest from professionals and academics passionate about supporting the next generation of climate leaders through the KCFP Climate Resilience Fellowship.

This is not just another academic role — it’s an opportunity to contribute directly to building climate adaptation capacity in some of the world’s most climate-vulnerable regions. Selected mentors and supervisors will play a critical role in guiding Fellows completing practical, workplace-based projects as part of a Postgraduate Certificate in Climate Adaptation Practice.

If you’re an academic expert or a professional working in the climate adaptation field, this fellowship offers a meaningful way to share your expertise, shape real-world solutions, and strengthen resilience across the Commonwealth.

About the KCFP Climate Resilience Fellowship

The Kirklees Climate Fellowship Programme (KCFP), delivered in partnership with the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU), focuses on equipping early-career professionals and postgraduate learners in SIDS with the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to tackle climate adaptation challenges.

The fellowship supports a Postgraduate Certificate in Climate Adaptation Practice, blending academic learning with practical project implementation. This approach ensures participants don’t just study climate resilience — they apply it in real communities.

To ensure each Fellow’s success, the program is now seeking experienced Academic Supervisors and Professional Mentors to provide expert guidance, feedback, and mentorship throughout the applied project phase.

Why This Program Matters

Small Island Developing States are on the frontlines of climate change, yet they often lack the technical and institutional capacity to respond effectively. Through the KCFP Fellowship, ACU aims to:

Strengthen local leadership in climate adaptation.
Promote collaboration between universities, government, and civil society.
Foster practical solutions that can be scaled across the Commonwealth.

Roles Available

1. Academic Supervisors

Academic Supervisors will be university-based scholars specializing in climate adaptation or related fields. Their primary responsibility is to guide the main assessment submission for each Fellow, ensuring academic rigor and alignment with climate adaptation best practices.

2. Professional Mentors

Professional Mentors will be industry or NGO-based practitioners, including experts from government agencies, nonprofits, or private sector organizations involved in climate action. Their role focuses on the practical implementation of Fellows’ projects, offering real-world insights, professional advice, and ongoing mentorship.

Both roles are central to bridging theory and practice — ensuring that Fellows produce outcomes that are academically sound and practically impactful.

Benefits of Becoming a Mentor or Supervisor

Participating in the KCFP Climate Resilience Fellowship offers unique professional and personal rewards. Selected mentors and supervisors will:

Contribute directly to advancing climate adaptation in vulnerable regions.
Build international networks with professionals and academics across the Commonwealth.
Gain recognition from the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU).
Support the academic and professional growth of emerging climate leaders.
Exchange knowledge and collaborate on sustainable development initiatives.

This is an excellent opportunity for those committed to advancing climate education, policy implementation, and community-based adaptation.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for this call for expressions of interest, applicants should meet the following requirements:

For Academic Supervisors:

Must be affiliated with a recognized university or higher education institution.
Demonstrated expertise in climate change adaptation, environmental management, or related disciplines.
Prior experience in academic supervision or postgraduate instruction preferred.

For Professional Mentors:

Must be employed in a climate-focused organization, NGO, government agency, or private entity.
Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in climate adaptation, resilience planning, or sustainability programs.
Strong mentoring, communication, and leadership skills.

Both roles require individuals who are passionate about supporting emerging leaders and promoting collaborative, evidence-based climate solutions.

Application Process and Deadline

Interested applicants should complete the Expression of Interest Form provided by the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU).

How to Apply:

Visit the official ACU webpage to access the Expression of Interest (EOI) Form.
Review the Terms of Reference carefully — available in the application portal.
On page 4 of the form, select whether you’re applying as a Professional Mentor or Academic Supervisor.
Fill in all required sections. You can save your progress and return later before final submission.
Submit your completed EOI before the deadline.

Application Deadline: 15:00 UTC, Thursday, 5 March 2026

For queries, contact: info-kcfp@acu.aĺc.uk

Tips for a Strong Application

Highlight relevant expertise: Emphasize your background in climate resilience, mentoring, or academic supervision.
Show impact: Mention real examples of your contributions to sustainability or adaptation projects.
Be specific: Tailor your EOI to the selected role — academic or professional.
Demonstrate commitment: Explain why climate adaptation in SIDS matters to you personally or professionally.
Submit early: Avoid last-minute technical issues by completing your form well before the deadline.

Remember, this is a global network of changemakers — your experience and guidance could empower the next generation of climate leaders across the Commonwealth.

Why You Should Apply

Becoming a mentor or supervisor with the KCFP Climate Resilience Fellowship goes beyond volunteering — it’s an opportunity to shape the future of climate action. You’ll help bridge the gap between research and real-world implementation while fostering innovation in countries most affected by climate change.

If you’re driven by impact and committed to advancing climate education, this is your chance to make a difference where it truly matters.

For more information and to apply, CLICK HERE

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