Call for Applications: Africa Research Excellence Fund (AREF) Research Development Fellowship Programme 2025/26

The Africa Research Excellence Fund (AREF) is pleased to invite applications for the 2025/26 AREF Research Development Fellowship (RDF). This prestigious programme is a unique opportunity aimed at empowering the next generation of outstanding African researchers who are committed to improving health outcomes through high-quality, locally relevant scientific research.

About the Fellowship Programme

The AREF Research Development Fellowship is a capacity-building initiative designed to nurture early-career researchers based in Africa. It offers a transformative opportunity for these individuals to strengthen their research skills, build international networks, and engage in collaborative projects that have the potential to drive innovation in health research.

The overarching goal of the fellowship is to bridge the capacity gap between African researchers and their international peers by providing access to advanced research environments, cutting-edge resources, and world-class mentorship. This initiative is an investment in Africa’s scientific future—cultivating leaders who will generate impactful research tailored to address the continent’s unique health challenges.

What the Fellowship Offers

Successful applicants will receive:

• A fully funded placement of 3 to 9 months at a leading research institution in the UK, Europe, or Africa.

• Continued mentorship and support before, during, and after the fellowship—ensuring that skills gained are integrated into the fellow’s home institution.

• Funding of up to £47,000, which covers:

  • Research training

  • International travel

  • Accommodation and living expenses

  • Research consumables

  • Other related costs (excluding salary)

This support allows researchers to immerse themselves in a high-quality research setting, gain hands-on experience, and return with enhanced capabilities to contribute to their institutions and the broader scientific community.

Who Should Apply?

The AREF RDF is open to:

• Postdoctoral researchers and clinicians who are actively involved in research

• Individuals with advanced degrees (e.g., PhD, MD, etc.)

• Citizens of any African country who are currently employed by African-based institutions

Please note: Applicants must ensure their eligibility by carefully reviewing the full criteria on the AREF portal before applying.

How to Apply

Interested researchers should follow these steps:

1. Review the Application Documents
   Visit the AREF portal and read the following key documents thoroughly:

   • Scheme Information

   • Guidance on Completing the Application Form

   • AREF Terms and Conditions

2. Prepare Your Application

   • Develop a strong research proposal aligned with the programme’s objectives.

   • Secure institutional support from both your employer and your proposed host institution. Their sponsorship is crucial.

3. Submit Your Application
   Applications must be submitted via the official AREF portal:
   👉 https://programmes.aref-africa.org.uk/

Application Deadline:
27 June 2025 at 13:00 GMT

Key Dates to Remember

• Application Deadline: 27 June 2025 (13:00 GMT)

• Outcome Notification: December 2025

• Fellowship Start Period: Between June 2026 and December 2026

Additional Information & Support

• Applicants are strongly encouraged to engage with their employing organizations and potential host institutions early to ensure a robust and well-supported application.

• AREF will be hosting information sessions to guide applicants through the process—details to be shared via their social platforms and newsletter.

If you have any specific questions that aren’t answered in the scheme documents, please contact AREF directly via the Contact Us section on their portal. To guarantee a timely response, it is recommended that you reach out before 20 June 2025.

Note from Global South Opportunities (GSO)

This announcement is shared for informational purposes only. GSO is not involved in the application or selection process. All inquiries and applications must be directed to the Africa Research Excellence Fund via their official platform. GSO is unable to process applications or respond to application-related queries due to the volume of correspondence received.