Apply Now: Fully Funded Data Science to Advance Women’s Health (DSAWH) Fellowship 2026 Cohort

Admin,

Application Deadline: November 3, 2025

Applications are now open for the Data Science to Advance Women’s Health (DSAWH) Fellowship Program – 2026 Cohort, a prestigious, fully funded 9-month fellowship empowering early-career women researchers in Eastern and Southern Africa to lead innovative, data-driven research in women’s health.

Running from January to September 2026, the fellowship is a transformative opportunity for 20 outstanding women scientists committed to using data science to address pressing health challenges faced by women across the continent. Applications close on 3 November 2025.

About the Fellowship

The DSAWH Fellowship is a flagship initiative dedicated to building research capacity, advancing gender equity in health leadership, and strengthening the representation of women in data science and public health research.

By combining technical training, mentorship, and publication support, the program equips fellows with the tools and networks to produce impactful research and become thought leaders in women’s health innovation.

Key Benefits of the DSAWH Fellowship

1. Advanced Data Science Training

Fellows receive in-depth, hands-on training in data analysis, statistical modeling, machine learning, and digital health tools. These sessions are tailored to enhance their ability to generate evidence-based solutions for women’s health issues in Africa.

2. Scientific Writing and Publication Development

Participants benefit from expert-led workshops that improve scientific writing, peer-reviewed publishing, and research visibility. Fellows are guided through every step of preparing and submitting manuscripts to reputable international journals.

3. Full Sponsorship for the Data Science Africa Summer School & Workshop

Each fellow attends the Data Science Africa (DSA) Summer School & Workshop, a major in-person event bringing together researchers, data scientists, and policymakers to explore how data-driven insights can shape public health outcomes in Africa.

4. Open Access Publication Fee Coverage

The fellowship fully covers open access publication fees for papers developed during the program, ensuring that fellows’ research reaches a global audience and contributes to global conversations on women’s health.

5. Personalized Mentorship and Career Guidance

Every fellow is paired with an experienced mentor specializing in health data science or women’s health research. Mentors provide tailored feedback, professional guidance, and ongoing support to help participants advance their research and academic careers.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the 2026 DSAWH Fellowship, applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • Identify as a woman researcher based in Eastern or Southern Africa.
  • Be an early-career researcher (within five years of completing a Master’s or PhD).
  • Be actively engaged in or planning a research project focused on women’s health.
  • Demonstrate a strong interest in data science or quantitative research methods.
  • Commit to full participation in all virtual and in-person fellowship activities.

Women from underrepresented groups in academia and health research are strongly encouraged to apply.

Program Timeline

  • Applications Open: 6 October 2025
  • Application Deadline: 3 November 2025
  • Fellowship Duration: January – September 2026
  • DSA Summer School & Workshop: June/July 2026 (location to be announced)

Why the DSAWH Fellowship Matters

The DSAWH Fellowship is more than a capacity-building program—it is a catalyst for change. It empowers women researchers to use data as a force for social and health transformation. By connecting women scientists across borders, the program fosters collaboration, innovation, and leadership in advancing women’s health in Africa.

Graduates of the fellowship emerge better equipped to design evidence-based policies, publish high-impact research, and contribute to building stronger, data-informed healthcare systems across the region.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are required to prepare and submit the following documents:

  • Updated CV (maximum of 2 pages)
  • Statement of Interest (up to 500 words) highlighting their research focus, motivation for applying, and how the fellowship will support their career goals
  • Brief Description of a current or planned women’s health research project
  • Contact Information for one academic or professional referee.

The DSAWH Fellowship 2026 offers women researchers in Africa a chance to grow, lead, and make a measurable impact in women’s health. With world-class training, mentorship, and resources, this fellowship is a gateway to advancing both personal career goals and the broader mission of achieving equitable health outcomes for women across Africa.

For more information and to apply, CLICK HERE 

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