The Africa Research Excellence Fund (AREF) has recently announced the launch of the highly anticipated AREF Research Development Fellowship Programme for the year 2023/24. This prestigious initiative aims to empower exceptional health researchers based in Africa by providing them with the necessary resources to lead research projects tailored to the unique challenges faced on the continent, ultimately contributing to the reduction of disease burdens.
The Research Development Fellowship Programme offers a golden opportunity for selected recipients to cultivate their research ideas, enhance their skills and capabilities, foster collaborations through mentorship and partnerships, and work towards securing substantial research funding. Early career researchers, including research-active postdoctoral scientists and clinicians with higher qualifications, who are nationals of and employed in Africa are eligible to apply for this program.
Successful fellows will be awarded placements ranging from three to nine months at leading research institutions located in the United Kingdom, Europe, or Africa. In addition, the fellowship provides support to fellows at their home institutions both before and after the placement. To support their research endeavours, financial assistance of up to £47,000 will be made available to the selected fellows.
Over the years, AREF Fellows have achieved remarkable milestones, securing prestigious fellowships and grants from renowned institutions such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Wellcome Trust, African Academy of Sciences (AESA, FLAIR), and the UK Medical Research Council (MRC), among others.
Applicants for the Research Development Fellowship Programme are required to demonstrate a credible and ambitious vision for their research career, specifically in an area of human health challenge relevant to Africa. Additionally, they must present a well-supported development plan that highlights how the RDF Programme can significantly contribute to their professional growth. AREF strongly encourages potential applicants to engage in early discussions with their employing and potential host organizations to ensure a seamless application process.
The deadline for submission of all applications is set for September 14, 2023. Prospective applicants are encouraged to thoroughly review the application requirements and guidelines provided by AREF to maximize their chances of success.
Article by Jed Mwangi
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