2nd NigeriaLics Ph.D. Academy 2026

NigeriaLics invites applications for the 2nd NigeriaLics Ph.D. Academy on Innovation and Competence Building Systems, to be held at the University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria, from 15–19 September 2026.
The Academy is designed for Ph.D. students enrolled at Nigerian and West African universities whose research focuses on innovation and development studies, particularly the relationship between science, technology, innovation, economic development, and social transformation. It aims to strengthen research capacity, innovation scholarship, and policy-relevant knowledge production in Nigeria and the wider West African region.
Participants will have the opportunity to engage with leading researchers in innovation and development studies, receive feedback on their doctoral work, develop new academic and professional skills, and interact with practitioners and policymakers. The Academy will include lectures by senior scholars, student paper presentations, feedback sessions, discussions on transforming innovative ideas into projects, study visits to innovation hubs or innovative organizations, and sessions on key academic skills such as publishing and project management.
Eligible applicants must be Ph.D. students at Nigerian or West African universities, at least in their second year of study, and must have successfully defended their research proposal. Their research should explicitly address issues related to science, technology, innovation, and development. Applicants must also be able to present an original academic paper derived from their doctoral studies and communicate effectively in English. Female applicants are particularly encouraged to apply as part of NigeriaLics’ commitment to strengthening diversity in the innovation and development research community.
Applications should include an extended abstract of up to five pages, a CV of no more than three pages, and a recommendation letter from the applicant’s local supervisor. A maximum of 25 participants will be selected.