Leakey Foundation offers the 2026 Research Grant to support innovative studies on human origins, evolution, and behavior. This funding opportunity is open to PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers working in fields such as archaeology, paleoanthropology, and primate behavioral ecology.
The grant supports field-based and laboratory research that deepens understanding of human evolutionary history, with competitive funding provided annually to researchers worldwide.
This overview covers the grant details, eligibility requirements, benefits, required documents, and application steps.
Leakey Foundation Research Grant Summary
- Host Country: United States of America
- Host Organization: Leakey Foundation
- Category: PhD Research Grants | Postdoctoral Research Funding
- Eligible Countries: All Countries
- Study Level: PhD (Dissertation stage) | Postdoctoral Research
- Reward: Fully Funded | Up to $20,000 – $30,000 Grant
- Deadline: July 15, 2026
Leakey Foundation Research Grant Details
The Leakey Foundation Research Grant supports high-impact research focused on human origins and evolution. It funds projects that explore archaeological records, fossil evidence, primate behavior, and other interdisciplinary approaches to understanding human development.
The foundation is a major global supporter of evolutionary anthropology research and awards approximately $1 million annually to qualified researchers. Grants are typically used to cover fieldwork, travel, research materials, and living expenses during data collection.
Eligibility Requirements for Leakey Foundation Research Grant 2026
To be considered, applicants must:
- Conduct research related to human origins, evolution, or behavior.
- Be PhD candidates at the dissertation stage or postdoctoral researchers.
- Be affiliated with a recognised university or museum.
- Be open to applicants of any nationality.
- Have fulfilled reporting requirements if previously awarded a Leakey Foundation grant.
Benefits of Leakey Foundation Research Grant 2026
Selected researchers may receive:
- Up to $20,000 for PhD dissertation research.
- Up to $30,000 for postdoctoral research projects.
- Funding support for:
- Fieldwork travel.
- Living expenses during research.
- Research materials and supplies.
- Project-related operational costs.
How to Apply for Leakey Foundation Research Grant 2026 (Step by Step)
To apply for the Leakey Foundation Research Grant, interested and qualified candidates should:
- Download the official application instructions and materials from the Leakey Foundation website.
- Carefully review all eligibility and submission requirements.
- Prepare all required documents and research materials.
- Submit the application through the official online application portal.
- Ensure submission before the deadline.