The 2024–2025 AREF Research Development Fellowship program call for applications is being announced with great excitement by the Africa Research Excellence Fund (AREF).
The goal of this esteemed fellowship is to develop the next wave of African research leaders who are tackling important issues pertaining to human health.
AREF seeks to improve the research capacity in Africa and make a contribution to the global health landscape by giving these up-and-coming leaders the chance to advance their research abilities and acquire international experience.
The goal of the AREF Research Development Fellowship program is to assist African early-career researchers who exhibit leadership potential in the field of health research.
With the fellowship, you will have the exceptional chance to complete a placement at a top research institute in the UK, Europe, or Africa, where you will be able to hone your research abilities, forge global partnerships, and acquire priceless experience that will propel your careers forward.
Fellowship Objectives and Benefits:
The fellowship intends to provide you with advanced training in data analysis, grant writing, research methodology, and other critical areas that will improve your capacity to carry out high-caliber research.
You will get the chance to collaborate with top scientists in your field and will be exposed to fresh concepts, methods, and viewpoints that will enhance your studies.
The program aims to increase Africa’s total research capacity by providing support to up-and-coming research leaders. This will allow African researchers to more effectively address global health concerns.
The fellowship has a duration of three to nine months, during which you will be placed in a premier research institution. Before and following the placement, you will receive additional assistance from your home institution.
Up to £47,000 is awarded by the fellowship to cover placement-related fees such as appropriate lodging, transportation, and training costs. However, your wages will be paid by your employer.
Eligibility Criteria:
Early-career researchers who fulfill the following requirements are eligible to apply for the AREF Research Development Fellowship:
- You must be working in research-active roles within Africa and be citizens of an African nation.
- You should be actively conducting research and be postdoctoral scientists or doctors with higher degrees.
- You must show promise if you are just starting in your career.
- You must have the endorsement of your host university and employing organization, as well as the consent of sponsors and senior staff to support your fellowship application.
- To make sure that your plans are in line with your professional development objectives, you should speak with the relevant executives in your organizations early on.
Application Schedules:
- Application deadline: On October 4, 2024, at 13:00 GMT, you must submit all application materials.
- Notification of results: By April 2025, you will receive word on the status of your applications.
- Start date of Fellowship: It is anticipated that fellowships that are awarded will begin in July 2025 and run through December 2025.
How to Apply:
1. Carefully develop your research proposal in line with the fellowship’s objectives and your career development goals. It is important to make sure that your proposal is well-structured, clearly written, and addresses a significant research question relevant to human health in Africa.
2. Before beginning the application, it is crucial to thoroughly review the scheme information, guidance documents, and terms and conditions available on the AREF portal.
3. Use the AREF portal to fill out the application form once your proposal is ready. Make sure you include all the information requested and attach the required files, such as your research proposal, letters of recommendation, and any other pertinent files.
4. Before the deadline, send in your finished application. It is best to submit your application early in advance of the deadline to avoid any last-minute problems, as late entries will not be accepted.
