Call for Applications: Fully-funded AREF Research Development Fellowship 2025/26 (financial support of up to £47,000 available)
Deadline: 27 June 2025 (13:00 GMT)
The Africa Research Excellence Fund (AREF) is excited to announce the launch of the 2025/26 Research Development Fellowship Programme, designed to support early career researchers across Africa who are emerging leaders in health research. This fellowship offers the opportunity to enhance research skills and gain valuable experience by working at leading research institutions.
Programme Overview
Aim: The AREF Research Development Fellowship aims to support early career researchers in Africa who are addressing key health challenges, to help them develop their research skills and build a foundation for a successful career in scientific research.
What’s Offered:
- A three to nine-month placement at a top-tier research institution in the UK, Europe, or Africa.
- Additional support at your home institution before and after the placement.
- Financial support of up to £47,000 to cover accommodation, travel, subsistence, and training costs during the fellowship.
Eligibility Criteria
Who can apply?
- Early career researchers, including post-doctoral scientists and clinicians who are nationals of, and employed in, Africa.
- Applicants should be actively involved in research, with higher qualifications, and must have the potential to become leaders in the field of health research.
Please note: Specific eligibility criteria and required qualifications can be found in the detailed guidance documents.
How to Apply
To apply for the AREF Research Development Fellowship, applicants must:
- Read the guidance documents thoroughly before developing your proposal.
- Complete the application form via the AREF portal: https://programmes.aref-africa.org.uk/
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 27 June 2025 (13:00 GMT)
- Notifications of Outcomes: By December 2025
- Fellowship Start Dates: Between June 2026 and December 2026
Support for Applicants
Applicants are strongly encouraged to discuss their fellowship plans with appropriate leaders in their Employing Organisation and Host Organisation early on to ensure support for their application. It is essential to have their sponsorship before proceeding with the application.
AREF does not reimburse salary for the time spent away from your home institution. However, it will cover reasonable costs for accommodation, travel, subsistence, and relevant training during the placement.
Additional Information
- Guidance Documents: Access the full Scheme Information, Guidance on Completing the Application Form, and AREF Terms and Conditions via the AREF portal.
- AREF will be hosting information sessions for applicants. Stay updated by following AREF’s Twitter and LinkedIn profiles, and consider subscribing to the newsletter for the latest news and fellowship updates.
Questions?
If you have questions that are not addressed in the scheme information documents, you can contact AREF via the “Contact Us” section on the application portal. Be sure to do this by 20 June 2025 for timely assistance.
This fellowship represents an exciting opportunity for emerging African researchers to enhance their expertise and make impactful contributions to human health research. Don’t miss your chance to apply for this prestigious fellowship!
