The Africa Research Excellence Fund (AREF) Research Development Fellowship Programme 2026/2027 for early career African researchers (£47,000 in funding)

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Application Deadline: 08 May 2026

Applications are now open for the 2026/2027 AREF Research Development Fellowship Programme. The program support researchers in Africa who are emerging leaders and working on important challenges for human health, to develop their skills as a researcher.

Eligibility Requirements

• Early career researchers.
• These are research active post-doctoral scientists and clinicians with higher qualifications who are nationals of and employed in Africa.
• Research-active post-doctoral scientists and clinicians
• Nationals of, and employed in, an African country
• Emerging research leaders in human health

Benefits

• A 3–9 month placement at a leading research institution in the UK, Europe, or Africa
• Pre- and post-placement support at your home institution
• Up to £47,000 to support accommodation, travel, subsistence, and training costs

Fellowships

• Successful Fellowships can start between June 2027 and no later than December 2027.

How to Apply

• Read the guidance documents carefully before developing your proposal and starting your application. Complete the application form via the portal at https://programmes.aref-africa.org.uk/

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the AREF Research Development Fellowship Programme