The Francis H. Brown African Scholarship Fund is a unique initiative designed to empower East African researchers and students by providing financial support for studies in earth sciences and botany related to human origins. This program seeks to build scientific capacity and further the legacy of Dr. Francis H. Brown by fostering research excellence in East African institutions.

Established in memory of Dr. Francis H. Brown (1943–2017), a pioneering geologist and scholar, this fund aims to provide opportunities for Africans to research and contribute to the understanding of human evolution and environmental sciences. Dr. Brown’s groundbreaking work in the Omo-Turkana basin laid the foundation for the timeline of human evolution and inspired the creation of this scholarship.

Applicants must:

• Be of African heritage and citizens of Kenya, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Uganda, South Sudan, Djibouti, Rwanda, Burundi, Somalia, or Eritrea.
• Be pursuing:
  • A graduate degree in an accredited institution (preferably in sub-Saharan Africa).
  • Postdoctoral research (within 10 years of obtaining a PhD).
  • Focus their research on earth sciences or botany related to human origins.
  • Show a commitment to advancing their field in their home country.

• Spring Cycle: January 10
• Fall Cycle: July 15

Funding Amount: Up to $30,000

• Travel, living costs during fieldwork, supplies, and research-related expenses.
• The grant does not cover institutional overhead, salary, benefits, or publication costs.

Applicants must submit the following via the online application system:

• Proposal (max 3 single-spaced pages) detailing study plan, research interests, career goals, and impact on their home country.
• Budget and Budget Justification for research activities.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Sponsor Letter from an academic or institution.
• References/Citations for the research proposal.
• Recent photo.

Returning scholars applying for an additional year of support must include a progress report and close out the current grant before reapplying.

To begin your application:

1. Download the Instructions Packet from the program’s official website.  
2. Access the online application portal  and submit your completed application along with all required documents.

Start your application today and shape the future of earth sciences and botany.

Visit the official scholarship page or contact the administrators for guidance on the application