AfAS 2024 Seed Research Grant: Apply Now for Funding to Support African Astronomy Research

The African Astronomical Society (AfAS) is the leading pan-African professional body representing the continent’s astronomers. AfAS is committed to building a globally competitive and collaborative community of astronomers across Africa while promoting the advancement of astronomy to address some of the continent’s pressing economic and social challenges.

About the AfAS Seed Research Grant

Launched in 2021 by the Early-Career Researcher Sub-Committee, the AfAS Seed Research Grant is designed to support postgraduate students and early-career researchers based in Africa with their astronomy research projects. This funding initiative aims to foster scientific innovation, collaboration, and capacity building within the African astronomical community.

For the 2024 cycle, AfAS will award three (3) seed grants, each worth up to 1,200 Euros. These grants are available to PhD students and postdoctoral researchers who demonstrate outstanding research potential. The grant may cover various research-related expenses, including international or domestic travel, accommodation, the purchase of essential computer equipment, or other necessary costs related to advancing the research project.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the AfAS Seed Research Grant, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Affiliation with an African University:
   Applicants may be citizens of any country but must be registered at a university or research institute located in an African country during the 2023-2025 academic years.
2. Research Focus:
   Applicants must be actively conducting research in astronomy or a closely related field.
3. Educational Background:
   Applicants must either be currently enrolled in a PhD program or have completed their doctoral degree within the past three years (i.e., no later than December 2021).

Application Process

Applicants should prepare the following documents, which must be compiled into a single PDF file and submitted via the AfAS online platform by 25 December 2024:

1. Curriculum Vitae (CV):
   A detailed CV that includes a full list of academic publications. The CV should also include the contact details of two academic referees who can write recommendation letters on behalf of the applicant.
2. Research Proposal:
   A comprehensive proposal (maximum of three pages) outlining the following:
   • Research title and abstract.
   • Scientific rationale and significance of the project.
   • Research methodology and expected outcomes.
   • A timeline for the project’s milestones.
   • A budget breakdown indicating how the grant will be used to support the research.
3. Motivation Letter:
   A personalized letter addressed to the AfAS Seed Research Grant Committee, detailing the applicant’s motivation for seeking the grant and how it will contribute to their academic and professional goals.
4. Proof of Registration/Employment:
   For PhD students, proof of registration at an African university. For postdoctoral researchers, proof of employment at a research institute.
5. University Transcripts:
   Official transcripts from the applicant’s completed degrees, confirming their academic background.

Additionally, two recommendation letters from academic referees must be sent directly to Dr. Sthabile Kolwa by 25 December 2024. One of these letters must be from a senior scientist familiar with the applicant’s research work (e.g., their supervisor or advisor).

Selection Criteria

The selection process will be handled by the AfAS Seed Research Grant Committee, comprising experienced astronomers and members of the AfAS Science Committee. Each application will be evaluated based on the following key criteria:

1. Quality of the Research Proposal:
   The proposal must demonstrate the scientific merit and potential impact of the research, with a clear articulation of the research statement.
2. Publication Record:
   Applicants’ academic publications will be assessed in relation to their career stage, reflecting their research productivity and quality.
3. Overall Academic Performance:
   Academic achievements, as reflected in transcripts and previous research accomplishments, will be considered.
4. Potential for Collaboration:
   The project’s ability to foster research partnerships and collaborations within the African astronomical community will be a significant factor.
5. Contribution to the Growth of Astronomy in Africa:
   The project should show potential for advancing the field of astronomy in Africa, addressing challenges, and contributing to local and regional development.

Grant Agreement and Reporting Requirements

Successful applicants must sign a grant agreement before funds are released. Recipients will also be required to submit a progress report within one year of receiving the award. This report must include updates on the research, a financial summary, and scanned receipts of major expenses incurred during the research project.

Estimated Timeline

• Opening of the call: 25 September 2024
• Deadline for applications: 25 December 2024
• Review period: January to February 2025
• Notification of successful applicants: At the AfAS Annual Conference in March 2025
• Grant disbursement: By 31 March 2025

Inquiries and Further Information

For any queries related to the application process or eligibility criteria, please contact:

AfAS Applications Administration
Email: admin@afasociety.org
Website: www.afasociety.org

This grant offers a valuable opportunity for emerging African astronomers to advance their research, engage in meaningful collaborations, and contribute to the development of astronomy across the continent.

Visit AFAS webpage for more details