APSA 2026 MENA Research Development Group

Brief Information

The APSA 2026 MENA Research Development Group is now open for applications for early-career scholars from the Middle East and North Africa.
Selected participants will take part in an intensive research mentoring program during the APSA Annual Meeting in Boston.
This opportunity supports academic publishing, professional development, and global scholarly networking.

Key Dates & Details

• Program: MENA Research Development Group at APSA 2026
• Organizer: American Political Science Association
• Conference Dates: September 3–6, 2026
• Application Deadline: March 1, 2026
• Location: Boston, Massachusetts, USA
• Type: In-person (conference-based)
• Target Group: Early-career MENA scholars (PhD candidates & recent PhD graduates)
• Application Form: Online submission

Overview

The APSA 2026 MENA Research Development Group is a highly selective academic support program designed to strengthen the research capacity of early-career scholars working on Middle East and North Africa–related topics.

Held during the APSA Annual Meeting, the program provides participants with structured feedback sessions, senior-scholar mentorship, and exposure to one of the world’s most influential political science conferences. Selected scholars will join a small cohort and work closely with established academics to refine journal-ready research papers.

The initiative aims to:

• Improve publication outcomes for MENA-focused research
• Support early-career scholars navigating international academia
• Foster long-term scholarly networks across regions and institutions

Participants benefit not only from formal workshops but also from informal networking opportunities throughout the APSA Annual Meeting, including panels, receptions, and thematic discussions.

Beyond academic feedback, the APSA 2026 MENA Research Development Group offers participants valuable exposure to international scholarly standards and publication practices. Scholars will gain insight into peer-review processes, journal expectations, and strategies for positioning MENA-focused research in global debates. The program also helps participants build confidence in presenting their work, engaging with senior academics, and navigating professional spaces within large international conferences such as the APSA Annual Meeting.

Eligibility

Applicants for the APSA 2026 MENA Research Development Group must meet the following criteria:

• Be an early-career scholar (advanced PhD candidate or recent PhD graduate)
• Conduct research related to the Middle East and North Africa
• Work within political science or closely related disciplines
• Be able to attend the APSA Annual Meeting in Boston (September 3–6, 2026)
• Submit a working research paper suitable for journal publication
• Demonstrate strong motivation for academic development and collaboration

Scholars based both within and outside the MENA region are encouraged to apply.

Application Details

To apply for the APSA 2026 MENA Research Development Group, candidates must complete the official online application form by March 1, 2026.

The application typically requires:

• Personal and academic background information
• Abstract or draft of a research paper
• Statement of research interests and career goals
• Confirmation of availability to attend APSA 2026

All applications are reviewed competitively, and only a limited number of scholars will be selected.

Early submission is strongly recommended.

FAQ

Official Link

👉 Apply here for the APSA 2026 MENA Research Development Group:
🔗 https://apsa.wufoo.com/forms/zsyzjz71ndajk5/

For more information about APSA programs, you may also explore resources via the official APSA website.

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