The University of the Free State has announced the opening of applications for fully funded postgraduate bursaries under the DSI-NRF Research Chair in City and Regional Economies. University of the Free State Fully Funded 2027 Postgraduate Bursaries The opportunity is aimed at strengthening research capacity in urban and regional development while supporting emerging scholars at master’s and doctoral levels. The funding call includes two full-time PhD bursaries and one full-time master’s bursary for the 2027 academic cycle. The scholarships are fully funded and cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other related study costs, making them a comprehensive support package for selected candidates. University of the Free State Fully Funded 2027 Postgraduate Bursaries: Focus on urban and regional economic transformation The research chair is dedicated to advancing knowledge on city and regional economies, with a strong emphasis on urbanisation and inclusive economic development. Successful applicants will engage in research addressing critical challenges facing urban environments, particularly in rapidly changing African cities. Key areas of research interest include urban housing systems, land use dynamics, and spatial inequality. The program also prioritizes studies on strategic industries, business ecosystems, and the interaction between formal and informal economic activity within cities. Other thematic priorities include the functioning of urban labour markets, unemployment trends, and poverty dynamics. Researchers are also encouraged to explore governance structures shaping urban development, including public-private partnerships and the role of civil society in policy implementation. The bursary program further emphasizes infrastructure and service delivery, with research opportunities focused on transport systems, energy provision, water supply, sanitation, and waste management. These sectors are considered central to improving urban sustainability and economic resilience. University of the Free State Fully Funded 2027 Postgraduate Bursaries: Academic leadership and research environment The initiative is led by Professor Ivan Turok, a prominent urban studies scholar known for his work on spatial development and economic geography. The research community offers a collaborative environment where postgraduate students will contribute to ongoing academic work while developing independent research projects aligned with the chair’s thematic priorities. Participants will be integrated into a multidisciplinary academic setting that combines economic analysis, urban planning, and policy research. The program is designed to support both theoretical advancement and practical policy relevance, particularly in addressing inequality and spatial development challenges in African cities. Eligibility and application requirements Applicants are required to submit a single consolidated PDF application by 31 May 2026. The application must include a curriculum vitae, academic transcripts, a copy of an identification document or passport, and a short research proposal between 500 and 1,500 words. The research proposal is expected to outline a clear topic aligned with the chair’s focus areas in city and regional economies. Candidates are encouraged to demonstrate analytical ability, research potential, and a strong interest in urban development issues. Applications should be submitted via email to Ms Nomvula Makhubu at MakhubuNY@ufs.ac.za. Additional academic inquiries can be directed to Professor Ivan Turok at iturok@hsrc.ac.za or Professor Abrahama Matamanda at matamandaa@gmail.com. Strengthening African urban research capacity The bursary program reflects a broader effort to strengthen research-led approaches to urban development in South Africa and the wider region. As cities continue to grow and face increasing pressures related to housing, infrastructure, and employment, the need for evidence-based policy solutions has become more urgent. By supporting postgraduate research in these areas, the University of the Free State aims to develop a new generation of scholars equipped to address complex urban challenges. The program also contributes to expanding academic knowledge on how cities function as economic systems and how inclusive development can be achieved in diverse urban contexts. University of the Free State Fully Funded 2027 Postgraduate Bursaries: Outlook With applications now open for the 2027 intake, the DSI-NRF Research Chair bursaries are expected to attract graduates with strong interests in urban economics, spatial development, and public policy. The fully funded nature of the awards, combined with access to expert academic supervision, positions the program as a significant opportunity for emerging researchers focused on Africa’s urban future. LEARN MORE HERE For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.