Advance Your Research Career: Apply for the AREF Research Development Fellowship 2025/26| £47,000

The Africa Research Excellence Fund (AREF) is excited to announce the call for the 2025/26 AREF Research Development Fellowship Programme. This fellowship is designed to support early-career researchers in Africa who are emerging leaders tackling critical challenges in human health. With substantial funding and opportunities for skill development, this program is an excellent chance to advance your research career.

Programme Overview

Aim

The primary aim of the AREF Research Development Fellowship is to empower early-career researchers in Africa to enhance their research skills and capabilities. By providing placements at leading research institutions in the UK, Europe, or Africa, the fellowship seeks to foster the next generation of researchers dedicated to addressing important health challenges.

What We Offer

• Placement Duration: Successful candidates will undertake a placement lasting between three to nine months at a prestigious research institution.

• Financial Support: Each fellow can receive up to £47,000 to cover accommodation, travel, subsistence, and training costs during the placement.

• Pre- and Post-Placement Support: In addition to the placement experience, fellows will receive support at their home institutions before and after their time abroad, ensuring a comprehensive development experience.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the AREF Research Development Fellowship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be an early-career researcher actively engaged in research, including post-doctoral scientists and clinicians.

• Hold higher qualifications and be employed in Africa.

• Nationality must align with African countries; specific eligibility details can be found in the scheme information document.

How to Apply

The application process for the AREF Research Development Fellowship involves several steps:

1. Read the Guidance Documents: Familiarize yourself with the guidance documents available on the AREF portal to understand the application requirements and expectations.

2. Develop Your Proposal: Create a compelling research proposal that aligns with the fellowship’s objectives and demonstrates your potential as a researcher.

3. Complete the Application Form: Submit your application through the AREF portal at AREF Application Portal.

Key Dates

• Application Deadline: All application documents must be submitted by 13:00 GMT on 27 June 2025.

• Notification of Outcomes: Applicants will be informed of the results by December 2025.

• Fellowship Start Dates: Successful fellowships can commence between June 2026 and no later than December 2026.

Important Considerations

Before applying, it is crucial to discuss your plans for an AREF Fellowship with senior leaders at both your Employing Organisation and Host Organisation. Gaining their support and agreement early in the process will be essential for a successful application.

Please note that while AREF does not cover your salary during the placement, it does support reasonable costs associated with accommodation, travel, subsistence, and training.

Guidance Documents

• Scheme Information: Detailed information about the fellowship.

• Guidance on Completing the Application Form: Tips and advice for a successful application.

• AREF Terms and Conditions: Important terms that applicants should be aware of.

You can find these documents on the AREF portal for thorough preparation.

APPLY

Next Steps

To stay informed about the AREF Research Development Fellowship and receive updates, consider following AREF on Twitter and LinkedIn. You can also subscribe to their newsletter for the latest news and opportunities.

This fellowship represents a significant opportunity for emerging researchers to enhance their skills and contribute to vital health research in Africa. Don’t miss your chance to advance your career—apply now!