Research Development Groups

The American Political Science Association (APSA) and the African Politics Conference Group (APCG) are pleased to introduce the Africa Research Development Group (RDG) for early-career scholars interested in attending at the APSA Annual Meeting & Exhibition. The program offers an opportunity to advance research towards publication, participate in the annual meeting, and develop scholarly networks with colleagues.

Selected participants attend a full-day seminar on the Wednesday before the Annual Meeting to discuss and receive critical feedback on an article-length manuscript in progress. Papers are circulated in advance to allow time for thorough reading. In addition to focused discussions on each paper, the seminar addresses strategies and advice for publishing in peer-reviewed international journals and other professional development topics. Over subsequent days, participants attend panels of interest, including APCG-sponsored panels and meetings, and take part in the APSA Annual Meeting program. Organizers assist participants in developing personalized schedules to promote linkages with different organized sections, related groups, and other scholars.

Participation in the Africa Research Development Group is open to early-career scholars based in Africa (those whose primary institutional affiliation is outside of Africa are not eligible for this program). The 2022 and 2023 RDGs were generously funded by The William and Flora Hewlett Foundation.

For more information, contact africaworkshops@apsanet.org.