Applications Now Open for the 2026 African STARS Fellowship Programme

Admin,

A premier opportunity is now available for emerging African scientists and innovators. The African STARS Fellowship Programme has launched its call for applications for the 2026 cohort. This transformative initiative is jointly led by the Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI) at Stellenbosch University, South Africa, and the Center for Africa’s Resilience to Epidemics (CARE) at the Institut Pasteur de Dakar, Senegal, with generous support from the Mastercard Foundation.

The programme is dedicated to empowering the next generation of African leaders in critical health security fields, including genomics, diagnostics, vaccine design, and biotechnology innovation.

Programme Objectives

The fellowship is designed to:

  • Provide advanced technical and translational training.
  • Develop essential leadership and entrepreneurial skills.
  • Build a robust network of professionals dedicated to strengthening Africa’s health sector and scientific innovation ecosystem.

Fellowship Tracks

Applicants can choose one of two tailored tracks:Advanced and Translational Training (ATT) Fellowship

  • Duration: 4 months
  • Focus: Intensive, hands-on training in advanced genomics for public health, diagnostic design, and vaccine manufacturing.
  • Ideal For: Early-career scientists and professionals (minimum 3 years’ experience) seeking to deepen their technical expertise.
  • Leadership Component: Includes training in grants management, financial oversight, and team leadership.
  • Duration: 12 months
  • Focus: Biotechnology innovation, entrepreneurship, and the commercialization of research. Includes placements within industry partners, companies, or innovation hubs.
  • Ideal For: Young scientists and entrepreneurs (minimum 5 years’ experience) aiming to bridge the gap between research and market impact.
  • Skills Development: Emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, project management, grantsmanship, and effective communication.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered, applicants must:

  • Be an African national, born and/or currently living on the continent.
  • Be 35 years of age or younger at the time of application.
  • Hold a relevant postgraduate qualification (a Master’s degree is mandatory; a PhD is advantageous).
  • Demonstrate a strong record of excellence in genomics, diagnostics, biotechnology, or a related field.
  • Exhibit clear leadership potential and a commitment to advancing Africa’s scientific capacity.
  • Be fluent in English or French (proficiency in both is a strong asset).
  • Women are strongly encouraged to apply.

Additional Track-Specific Experience:

  • ATT Track: Minimum of 3 years in research, innovation, or industry.
  • YPP Track: Minimum of 5 years in research management, innovation, or commercialization. Experience in biotech startups or translational research is beneficial.

Fellowship Benefits

Selected fellows will receive comprehensive support, including:

  • Full funding for the training programme, covering travel, visas, and accommodation.
  • A monthly stipend for living expenses.
  • Dedicated mentorship and career development guidance.
  • Placement opportunities at leading African research and innovation institutions.
  • Lifetime access to the influential African STARS Alumni Network.

How to Apply

Interested candidates must prepare the following:

  • A comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV). Download Template
  • At least one letter of recommendation from an academic or professional referee.

    For detailed information and to begin your application, please visit the official African STARS Fellowship Programme webpage.

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