Young conservationists from around the world now have an exciting opportunity to become part of one of the most prestigious global biodiversity leadership programmes. Applications are officially open for the 2027–2029 EDGE Fellowship Programme, led by the Zoological Society of London under its globally recognized EDGE of Existence initiative.
This fully funded fellowship supports passionate early-career conservationists working to protect some of the world’s most evolutionarily unique and endangered species. The upcoming fellowship cohort is especially significant as it coincides with the 200th anniversary of ZSL and the 20-year celebration of the EDGE initiative.
Applicants from eligible developing countries are strongly encouraged to apply.
About the EDGE Fellowship Programme
The EDGE Fellowship is an intensive conservation leadership and capacity-building programme designed for locally based conservation professionals who are committed to protecting threatened species in their own countries.
The fellowship empowers participants with funding, mentorship, technical training, and leadership development so they can design and implement impactful conservation projects for overlooked species facing extinction risks.
Fellows become part of a global network of conservation leaders dedicated to science-based and community-driven biodiversity protection.
Fellowship Benefits
Selected fellows will receive a comprehensive support package, including:
- A fully funded 28-month fellowship programme (January 2027 – May 2029)
- Six weeks of in-person conservation training
- £15,000 project grant for implementing conservation initiatives
- Dedicated mentorship and technical guidance
- Leadership and professional development support
- Access to a global network of EDGE conservation leaders
- International exposure and collaboration opportunities
Eligible Species Categories
Applicants must propose projects focusing on species listed on the official EDGE species list. Eligible categories include:
- Amphibians
- Mammals
- Birds
- Crocodylians
- Sharks and rays
- Ray-finned fish
- Turtles and tortoises
- Snakes, lizards, and tuatara
- Angiosperms (flowering plants)
- Gymnosperms
Projects focusing on high-priority EDGE species are particularly encouraged, although medium- and lower-priority species proposals are also welcome.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the 2027 EDGE Fellowship, applicants should:
- Be early-career conservationists
- Demonstrate strong commitment to protecting an eligible EDGE species
- Be nationals or long-term residents of the proposed project country
- Show strong links with local ecosystems and communities
- Clearly explain the conservation problem and project impact
- Be willing to fully participate in training, mentoring, and peer learning activities
- Aspire to become future conservation leaders in their regions
Applicants from countries outside the G12, the European Union, New Zealand, and South Korea are eligible to apply.
Application Process
The selection process consists of two stages:
Stage 1: Expression of Interest
Applicants must first submit an initial project concept outlining their proposed conservation initiative.
Deadline: 10 June 2026 (17:00 BST)
Shortlisted candidates will then be invited to submit a full application.
Fellowship Timeline
| Stage | Date |
|---|---|
| Expression of Interest Opens | 13 May 2026 |
| Expression of Interest Deadline | 10 June 2026 |
| Full Application Invitation | 8 July 2026 |
| Full Application Deadline | 12 August 2026 |
| Interviews & Selection | September – October 2026 |
| Fellowship Period | January 2027 – May 2029 |
Why This Fellowship Is Important
The EDGE Fellowship stands out because it directly invests in local conservation leaders working in biodiversity-rich regions where resources and support are often limited.
Rather than focusing only on academic research, the programme emphasizes practical conservation impact, leadership development, community engagement, and long-term sustainability.
Fellows gain the tools and international support needed to create measurable conservation outcomes while building strong local conservation movements in their countries.
For young environmental leaders, biodiversity advocates, wildlife researchers, and conservation practitioners, this fellowship can become a transformative career opportunity.
How to Apply
Interested applicants can learn more and submit their applications through the official EDGE Fellowship webpage below:
EDGE Fellowship Official Website
For more fully funded fellowships, internships, scholarships, and global opportunities, keep visiting Global Youth Opportunities