Sub-Saharan Africa Health Research Fellowship Opens Doors for Scientists

A new fully-funded fellowship program is now accepting applications. The Sub-Saharan Africa Health Research and Innovation (SAHRI) Fellowship will train future research leaders. It is open to mid-career scientists from the region. The application deadline is February 1, 2026.The program is a major initiative to strengthen Africa’s capacity in biomedical innovation. It is funded by the Global Health EDCTP3 and led by the Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp. This partnership aims to tackle infectious diseases through advanced research and development.

Sub-Saharan Africa Health Research Fellowship Structure

The SAHRI Fellowship is a comprehensive three-year program. It will support twelve talented researchers. The training combines academic study with hands-on industry and field experience.Fellows begin with a Master of Science in Tropical Medicine in Belgium. They also complete a course on biotech development. This academic phase builds a strong theoretical foundation.Next, participants embark on a six-month internship at BioNTech in Germany. This provides direct exposure to cutting-edge vaccine and therapeutic development. According to reports from Reuters, such industry partnerships are vital for technology transfer.The final phase involves a research project in the fellow’s home country. This ensures the skills and knowledge gained have a direct local impact. The goal is to create sustainable research leadership within sub-Saharan Africa.

Partnerships and Long-Term Impact

The consortium behind this effort includes leading African and European institutions. Collaboration is a core principle of the program. It connects academic training with real-world application.The long-term benefits for participants are significant. Fellows receive full financial support throughout the entire program. This includes tuition, travel, accommodation, and a living stipend.The broader impact aims to strengthen health systems across the continent. By empowering local scientists, the program addresses critical health challenges from within. This model of capacity building is seen as essential for sustainable development.

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This new Sub-Saharan Africa Health Research Fellowship represents a significant investment in the future of science on the continent. It provides a unique pathway for researchers to become leaders in their field.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is eligible for the SAHRI Fellowship?

Applicants must be nationals of a sub-Saharan African country. They need a master’s-level degree and a passion for infectious disease research. Institutional support for a leave of absence is also required.

What costs does the fellowship cover?

The program offers full financial support. It covers tuition fees, international travel, and accommodation. A living stipend and health insurance are also provided.

Where will the fellows receive training?

Training occurs across multiple countries. It starts in Belgium, continues with an internship at BioNTech in Germany, and concludes with research in an African partner country.

How does this program benefit African health research?

It builds local capacity by training scientists within the region. The goal is to create a network of leaders who can drive innovation and tackle local health challenges effectively.

Why is BioNTech involved in this initiative?

BioNTech’s involvement provides fellows with direct industry experience in mRNA technology. This partnership aims to foster innovation and research translation for diseases affecting Africa.