Applications are now open for the 2026–2029 Sub-Saharan Africa Health Research and Innovation Fellowship (SAHRI Fellowship) — a fully funded, three-year programme designed to strengthen the next generation of biomedical and clinical research leaders across sub-Saharan Africa.
Funded by Global Health EDCTP3 and delivered through a consortium of African and European institutions, the fellowship will support 12 mid-career scientists who are committed to advancing research on infectious disease prevention, diagnostics, treatment, and control.
About the SAHRI Fellowship
The SAHRI Fellowship was created to address the pressing need for strong scientific leadership capable of tackling persistent and emerging health challenges in Africa. Led by the Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp, with contributions from BioNTech and several African research institutions, the program combines:
- Academic excellence
- Industrial research exposure
- Community-focused scientific leadership
Its goal is to develop researchers with both technical expertise and the ability to implement innovative, practical solutions in their home countries.
Programme Structure
The SAHRI Fellowship is divided into three phases:
1. Academic Phase (Year 1) – Belgium
Fellows begin their journey with advanced academic and scientific training, including:
- A Master of Science in Tropical Medicine at the Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp
- A specialised course in Systems Thinking in Biotech Development at KU Leuven
This phase equips researchers with critical scientific skills, analytical tools, and a deeper understanding of global health innovation.
2. Placement Phase (Year 2) – Germany & Africa
Fellows gain hands-on experience through placements at leading global and regional research institutions, including:
- A six-month placement at BioNTech headquarters in Mainz, Germany
- Additional research training at partner institutions across Africa, such as:
- East African Consortium for Clinical Research (Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda)
- Clinical Research Unit of Nanoro (Burkina Faso)
- East African Consortium for Clinical Research (Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda)
This phase provides exposure to cutting-edge research environments and mentorship from world-class scientists.
3. Return-Home Phase (Year 3) – Home Institutions
Upon returning home, fellows will:
- Lead an independent research project
- Strengthen local research systems
- Build sustainable scientific collaborations
- Contribute to institutional capacity development
- Receive career support with pathways toward PhD advancement
Program Benefits
The SAHRI Fellowship provides full financial support, including:
- Tuition and academic fees
- Accommodation and monthly living allowance
- Research funding
- International travel
- Health insurance
- Internship and placement expenses
This ensures fellows can focus entirely on their academic and professional development.
Eligibility Criteria
The fellowship targets mid-career biomedical or clinical researchers who:
- Are nationals of sub-Saharan African countries
- Hold a qualification equivalent to a Master’s degree recognized in the EU
- Demonstrate strong interest in infectious disease research aligned with EDCTP priorities
- Have institutional support to participate
- Can clearly articulate how the fellowship will advance their research career
Women are strongly encouraged to apply, reflecting the programme’s commitment to gender equity in science.
Eligible Countries
All sub-Saharan African countries.
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