LEGO Foundation Fellowship 2027 for Global Researchers

The LEGO Foundation Fellowship 2027 is an international research fellowship for early- and mid-career researchers from around the world. The program supports researchers who are working on topics related to children’s growth, learning, wellbeing, and development. The fellowship is funded by the LEGO Foundation and managed by the Social Science Research Council (SSRC).

Selected fellows will receive flexible funding of USD 300,000 over three years to carry out their research projects. Researchers from different academic fields can apply, including education, psychology, sociology, public health, economics, neuroscience, data science, and many others.

The fellowship focuses on three important themes: young children in crisis and conflict situations, the inclusion and wellbeing of neurodivergent children, and children’s learning in a world influenced by artificial intelligence (AI). Fellows will also join an international network of researchers and participate in meetings, discussions, and knowledge-sharing activities throughout the fellowship period.

Fellowship Details

Host Organization: LEGO Foundation
Administered By: Social Science Research Council (SSRC)
Fellowship Type: Research Fellowship
Funding Amount: USD 300,000
Duration: 3 Years
Number of Fellowships: Up to 10
Eligible Countries: Most countries worldwide
Application Mode: Online
Fellowship Period: February 1, 2027 – December 31, 2029
Target Group: Early- and Mid-Career Researchers

Fellowship Benefits

USD 300,000 research funding over three years.
Funding managed through the fellow’s institution.
Support for research staff and assistants.
Professional travel funding.
Equipment and research-related expenses covered.
Support for publication and dissemination activities.
Access to an international network of researchers.
Participation in annual meetings and virtual sessions.
Opportunities to collaborate with experts and practitioners.
Recognition as a LEGO Foundation Fellow.
Increased visibility through media and communication channels.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

Hold a PhD or equivalent doctoral degree by July 31, 2026.
Have received their PhD on or after January 1, 2016.
Be employed by a university or research institute.
Submit an individual application.
Have a strong research background.
Propose a project related to one of the fellowship themes.
Be able to receive funding through their host institution.
Demonstrate research potential and leadership ability.
Be interested in interdisciplinary collaboration.

Required Documents

Online application form.
Updated CV or Resume (maximum 2 pages).
Research Abstract (maximum 250 words).
Personal Statement (maximum 500 words).
Research Proposal (maximum 5 pages).
Completed Budget Template.
Budget Justification.
Selected Bibliography (maximum 2 pages).
Any additional supporting documents requested by SSRC.

How to Apply

Read all fellowship requirements carefully.
Prepare all required documents.
Write a strong research proposal related to one of the fellowship themes.
Complete the budget and budget justification forms.
Visit the online application portal.
Fill out the application form.
Upload all required documents.
Review your application carefully.
Submit the application before the deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who can apply for the LEGO Foundation Fellowship?
Researchers from around the world who hold a PhD and work at a university or research institute.

2. How much funding is available?
Each fellowship provides USD 300,000 over three years.

3. What research areas are supported?
Children in crisis settings, neurodivergent children, and children’s learning in an AI-enabled world.

4. Can researchers from any country apply?
Yes, applicants from most countries can apply, except those affected by specific EU or US sanctions.

5. Is play-based research required?
No. Research related to play is welcome but not required.

6. How many fellowships will be awarded?
Up to 10 fellowships.

7. When will results be announced?
Applicants are expected to be informed in November 2026.