Yale Emerging Climate Leaders Fellowship Offers Fully Funded Training in US and France

Applications are now being accepted for the Yale Emerging Climate Leaders Fellowship, a fully funded program designed to empower young professionals dedicated to addressing climate change and advancing clean energy solutions. This prestigious fellowship offers a unique hybrid learning experience, combining in-person sessions at Yale University in the United States and in Paris, France, with interactive remote sessions led by leading climate experts.

A Hybrid Program for Global Climate Leaders

The Yale Emerging Climate Leaders Fellowship is a five-month hybrid program structured into three key components. The program begins with an orientation week at Yale University (February 16-20, 2026), providing fellows with a foundation for global climate change discussions. Following the US-based session, participants will engage in interactive remote sessions with renowned climate experts from March to June 2026, focusing on policy issues related to climate change and clean energy transition.

The program culminates in a second in-person session in Paris (June 15-19, 2026), where fellows will share insights gained throughout the program and network with officials from international and governmental agencies. Participants will also present their recommendations to an advisory committee and publish their findings, contributing to the broader climate change discourse.

Benefits of the Yale Climate Fellowship

The fellowship provides comprehensive financial support, covering all costs associated with the in-person sessions, including:

Round-trip airfare Hotel accommodation Transfers Per-diem allowance

Beyond financial support, the program offers invaluable networking opportunities and skill development, enabling young leaders to enhance their technical expertise and expand their professional connections in the climate sector.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Yale Emerging Climate Leaders Fellowship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Possess 5-10 years of professional experience with regional, local, or global achievements. Represent the Global South (candidates from developing Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America/Caribbean are encouraged to apply). Demonstrate excellent command of the English language. Be available to participate in all three parts of the program, including the two in-person sessions and remote sessions. Be prepared to work on a collaborative group project.

Expert Perspective: The Importance of Global Collaboration

Dr. Emily Carter, a professor of environmental science and public policy, emphasizes the critical role of international collaboration in addressing climate change. "Climate change is a global challenge that requires collective action," says Dr. Carter. "Programs like the Yale Emerging Climate Leaders Fellowship are essential for fostering cross-cultural understanding and developing innovative solutions that can be implemented worldwide. By bringing together young leaders from diverse backgrounds, the fellowship creates a powerful network of change agents who are equipped to tackle this complex issue."

Historical Context and Current Relevance

Scholarships and fellowships focused on climate change have seen a significant increase in recent years, reflecting the growing urgency to address the climate crisis. Historically, environmental scholarships often focused on conservation and natural resource management. However, the emergence of climate change as a central global challenge has led to a surge in programs aimed at fostering climate leadership and innovation.

The Yale Emerging Climate Leaders Fellowship aligns with this trend, providing a platform for young professionals to develop the skills and networks necessary to drive meaningful change. The program's focus on the Global South is particularly relevant, as developing countries are disproportionately affected by climate change and require strong leadership to navigate the challenges ahead.

Application Process

Interested candidates can apply for the Yale Emerging Climate Leaders Fellowship through an online application form. The application process involves:

Registering for a new account. Completing the application form with personal and professional information. Uploading required documents, including a CV/Resume, a short video statement, a personal statement, a letter of recommendation, and a passport. Providing recommender details. Submitting the application before the deadline.

Key Documents Required

Applicants are required to submit the following documents as part of their application:

CV/Resume Short video statement Personal statement One letter of recommendation Passport

Deadline

The deadline to apply for the Yale Emerging Climate Leaders Fellowship is August 1, 2025.

For more information and to begin the application process, visit the official Yale Jackson School of Global Affairs website.