Hey future world-changers! Are you an early career researcher passionate about making a real difference for our planet? Then buckle up, because the incredible French Government’s Make Our Planet Great Again (MOPGA) Bursary 2026 might just be your golden ticket!
This isn’t just any funding; it’s a chance to dive deep into crucial environmental and climate research in France, collaborating with top-notch institutions. Ready to contribute to a greener, more sustainable future? Let’s get into the deets!
The MOPGA Bursary, launched by the French Government, is an awesome initiative designed to attract brilliant international early career researchers to France. It’s all about empowering you to conduct cutting-edge research on urgent global environmental and climate issues, from understanding our Earth’s systems to tackling climate change, energy transition, and even the ‘One Health’ approach (connecting human, animal, and environmental well-being). This program helps you collaborate with leading French research institutions, making a tangible impact on critical global challenges while advancing your career.
Who Can Apply?
This bursary is super competitive, so make sure you fit the bill! Here’s who the French Government is looking for:
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You must NOT hold French citizenship.
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You need to have obtained your doctoral degree less than 5 years ago (meaning your thesis defence must have been between December 2020 and December 2025).
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You must NOT have resided in France for more than 90 days between 12 September 2025 and 12 December 2025.
They are particularly interested in projects focusing on:
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Earth system sciences
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Climate change and sustainability science
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Energy transition
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Societal challenges related to environmental issues
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The “One Health” approach (looking at how human, animal, and environmental health are all connected – projects only on human medicine without this broader link won’t qualify).
Bonus points for innovative projects using advanced technologies!
What Does It Cover?
Okay, let’s talk about the perks! The MOPGA Bursary is a 12-month fellowship that provides some awesome support:
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A generous monthly allowance of €2,500 (that’s some serious euro for your living expenses!).
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A one-time installation grant of €500 to help you settle in.
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Comprehensive health coverage, including health insurance, civil liability, and repatriation assistance, plus complementary health coverage once you’re officially part of the French social security system.
You’ll be granted the status of a French Government Scholarship holder (BGF), and your host laboratory in France will provide the perfect scientific environment for your research project.
How to Apply?
Ready to jump into this amazing opportunity? Here’s your step-by-step guide:
Application Process:
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Prepare your research project: Your application needs a compelling research project title, keywords, an abstract (max 2,000 characters), context and motivation (max 2,000 characters), scientific objectives (max 2,000 characters), methodology and timeline (max 4,500 characters), how your project aligns with the MOPGA initiative (max 2,000 characters), and the international collaboration/impact for your home country (max 2,000 characters). You can write this in English or French!
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Gather your documents:
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Your CV (max 4 pages) including your publications.
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Your PhD Diploma or a completion certificate.
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CV of your potential scientific advisor at the host laboratory (max 2 pages).
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A strong letter of support from your scientific advisor, co-signed by the laboratory director (or a separate commitment letter from them), confirming they have the environment and resources for your project.
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Up to 3 letters of recommendation.
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Your passport or proof of ID.
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Apply Online: Submit everything through the official portal. The application period opened on 12 September 2025.
Important Dates:
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Application period ends: 12 December 2025
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Notification of results: May/June 2026
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Arrival in France and start of fellowship: Between September 2026 and December 2026 (at the latest)
Don’t miss out on this incredible chance to make your mark on global environmental research!
Ready to make your planet great again? Head over to the official application portal:
Apply for the MOPGA Bursary 2026 Here!
For more detailed information, check out the official webpage:
Visit the Official MOPGA Program Webpage
If you’re an ambitious early career researcher ready to tackle our planet’s biggest challenges, the French Government MOPGA Bursary 2026 is calling your name! This is a phenomenal opportunity to advance your career, contribute to vital research, and live in beautiful France. Don’t wait – get your application in before 12 December 2025! And while you’re here, why not explore more amazing opportunities on Bursaries Room? Your future starts now!
