Apply for the LEGO Foundation Fellowship 2027–2029. Researchers can receive up to USD 300,000 to study children’s learning, development, and wellbeing.
The LEGO Foundation has launched applications for its new global Fellowship Programme, offering a significant opportunity for researchers interested in understanding how children learn, develop, and thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Created as part of the Foundation’s 40th anniversary celebrations, the LEGO Foundation Fellowship will support up to 10 early- and mid-career researchers with funding of up to USD 300,000 over three years.
The programme seeks ambitious research projects that can generate practical insights and evidence to improve outcomes for children globally. Researchers from a wide range of disciplines and regions are encouraged to apply.
For academics and research professionals looking for substantial funding and international recognition, this fellowship represents one of the most exciting opportunities currently available.
About the LEGO Foundation
The LEGO Foundation is a globally recognized philanthropic organization dedicated to improving children’s learning and development through play.
For decades, the Foundation has invested in research, innovation, and partnerships designed to help children build the skills they need to succeed in school, work, and life.
Its work influences educators, policymakers, researchers, and organizations around the world by promoting evidence-based approaches to children’s development.
Researchers interested in education, child development, psychology, neuroscience, and social impact often view LEGO Foundation-supported projects as highly respected within the field.
What Makes This Fellowship Unique?
Many research grants focus narrowly on academic outputs.
The LEGO Foundation Fellowship places equal emphasis on research quality and real-world impact.
Successful fellows will be expected to conduct rigorous research while producing findings that can help practitioners, policymakers, and organizations better support children.
The programme specifically focuses on challenges that are becoming increasingly important globally.
Research Areas Supported
The fellowship will support projects exploring three major themes shaping children’s lives today.
Children in Crisis and Conflict Settings
Millions of children worldwide are affected by conflict, displacement, humanitarian emergencies, and instability. Researchers are encouraged to explore how children can continue learning and developing despite these challenges.
Neurodivergent Children and Inclusion
There is growing recognition of the importance of creating inclusive learning environments for children with diverse neurological profiles. Research in this area can help improve educational practices and social inclusion.
Children’s Learning and Development in an AI-Enabled World
Artificial intelligence is changing education, work, and society. Researchers have an opportunity to investigate how AI may affect children’s learning, development, opportunities, and wellbeing in the years ahead.
Funding and Fellowship Benefits
Selected fellows will receive:
- Up to USD 300,000 over three years
- Global recognition through the LEGO Foundation network
- Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration
- Access to an international research community
- Support for high-impact research projects
- Enhanced visibility within the education and child development sectors
The funding level makes this fellowship particularly attractive for researchers seeking to undertake ambitious projects that require sustained investigation.
Who Should Apply?
The programme welcomes applications from:
- Education researchers
- Psychologists
- Neuroscientists
- Data scientists
- Learning scientists
- Humanitarian researchers
- Child development specialists
- Social scientists
- Public policy researchers
Researchers from both the Global North and Global South are encouraged to participate.
The Foundation is particularly interested in diverse perspectives that can contribute new insights into how children thrive across different contexts.
Why Research on Children’s Development Matters
Investing in children is one of the most effective ways to create long-term social impact.
Research helps decision-makers understand:
- How children learn best
- What supports healthy development
- How education systems can improve
- How technology influences childhood
- What interventions produce meaningful outcomes
Evidence generated through high-quality research often shapes policies and programmes that affect millions of children worldwide.
Career Benefits of Research Fellowships
Research fellowships provide benefits that extend beyond funding.
Successful fellows often gain:
- Stronger publication records
- International visibility
- Expanded professional networks
- New collaborative opportunities
- Enhanced grant competitiveness
- Leadership experience within their field
Researchers seeking to build long-term academic careers may find fellowships particularly valuable for establishing expertise in emerging areas of research.
You can also explore additional opportunities through our Fellowship Opportunities section and discover funding programmes featured in our Career Resources hub on FlexJobSpace.
Application Tips
Competition for prestigious international fellowships is often intense.
Applicants should focus on:
- Demonstrating originality
- Showing practical relevance
- Explaining potential impact
- Presenting a clear methodology
- Communicating complex ideas simply
Strong applications often connect academic rigor with real-world challenges and practical solutions.
Important Dates
Applications Open:
1 June 2026
Application Deadline:
31 July 2026
Fellowship Period:
2027–2029
Applicants should begin preparing research proposals early to ensure they submit a competitive application.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the official LEGO Foundation Fellowship platform.
Official Fellowship Information
Applicants should carefully review all eligibility requirements, programme guidelines, and application instructions before applying.
Final Thoughts
The LEGO Foundation Fellowship offers a rare opportunity for researchers to secure substantial funding while contributing to some of the most important questions affecting children today.
Whether investigating education in crisis settings, inclusion for neurodivergent children, or the future of learning in an AI-driven world, successful fellows will have an opportunity to generate research that could influence policy and practice for years to come.
For researchers seeking both funding and impact, this fellowship deserves serious consideration.
Disclaimer
FlexJobSpace is an independent opportunity-sharing platform. We are not affiliated with the LEGO Foundation and do not participate in the fellowship selection process. Applicants should verify all information directly through the official programme website before applying.
- Fellowship Opportunities: https://flexjobspace.com/category/fellowships/
- Career Resources: https://flexjobspace.com/category/career-resources/
- Research Opportunities: https://flexjobspace.com/category/research-opportunities/
- International Opportunities: https://flexjobspace.com/category/international-opportunities/
