The LEGO Foundation Fellowship is a global initiative supporting researchers working to deepen our understanding of how children thrive. Spanning disciplines from education and psychology to public health, data science, and humanitarian studies, the fellowship brings together early- and mid-career scholars whose work has the potential to generate evidence that matters for children’s lives.
The LEGO Foundation Fellowship is developed in partnership with the LEGO Foundation, and administered by SSRC as part of its commitment to supporting scholars whose work bridges research and real-world impact.
Proposals must align with one of three research themes:
The Youngest Children in Crisis and Conflict Settings
Research may focus on children from birth to age eight and their caregivers in humanitarian emergencies, displacement settings, and other crisis-affected contexts. Topics include resilience, caregiving environments, mental health and psychosocial support, and the translation of evidence into practice.
Inclusion and Wellbeing of Neurodivergent Children
This theme seeks research that improves understanding of how to support neurodivergent children and youth, particularly those with autism and ADHD. Areas of interest include support before diagnosis, family environments, inclusive education, transitions across life stages, and the role of digital technologies.
Children’s Learning and Development in an AI-Enabled World
Researchers are invited to examine how artificial intelligence is shaping children’s learning, wellbeing, social development, and relationships with adults. Priority areas include AI-assisted learning, social-emotional development, adult-child interactions, and the differential impacts of AI on children and youth.
Eligibility
The fellowship is open to early- and mid-career researchers worldwide who:
- Are employed by a university or research institute.
- Hold a PhD or equivalent research doctorate by July 31, 2026.
- Received their doctoral degree within the past 10 years (on or after January 1, 2016, subject to approved career-break policies).
Researchers from a broad range of disciplines are encouraged to apply, including education, psychology, child development, public health, economics, sociology, neuroscience, data science, disability studies, humanitarian studies, and related fields.
Funding and Timeline
The fellowship provides:
- Up to $300,000 in funding over three years (inclusive of indirect costs).
- Support for research-related expenses.
- Access to a global cohort of fellows and professional networking opportunities.
- Opportunities to engage with researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and LEGO Foundation partners.
Applications must be submitted by July 31, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. EST. The fellowship period runs from February 1, 2027, through December 31, 2029. Up to 10 fellowships will be awarded.
For questions about the fellowship or application process, contact [email protected].