Application Deadline: 1 February 2026
Applications are officially open for the prestigious sub-Saharan Africa Health Research and Innovation Fellowship Program, commonly known as the SAHRI Fellowship. This comprehensive three-year fellowship is expertly crafted to nurture and develop 12 outstanding mid-career biomedical and clinical researchers originating from sub-Saharan Africa (sSA). Its core mission is to cultivate leaders in the fields of biomedical innovation and clinical research who will directly confront pressing challenges related to infectious disease prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and control throughout the region.
The SAHRI Fellowship is fully funded through a grant awarded by the Global Health EDCTP3 initiative. The program is managed by a collaborative consortium of leading academic and research institutions spanning Europe and Africa. At the helm is the renowned Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp, working in strategic partnership with the biotechnology company BioNTech.
Eligibility and Requirements
The fellowship seeks applications from promising mid-career clinical or biomedical scientists who are nationals of sub-Saharan African countries. Ideal candidates are those with a demonstrated potential to emerge as future leaders in clinical research and biomedical innovation, focusing on infectious diseases.
- Applicants must hold citizenship in a sub-Saharan African country and possess a valid passport that permits international travel.
- A university degree equivalent to a European Union Master’s degree is mandatory. Candidates must also fulfill all the admission criteria for the Master of Science in Tropical Medicine program.
- Applicants should show a clear interest in infectious disease research, aligned with the EDCTP Strategic Research Agenda priorities.
- While prior research experience and publications will strengthen the application, they are not compulsory.
- Proof of institutional backing is required, including documented commitment from the home institution to grant leave of absence during the fellowship period.
- Candidates must articulate a clear vision of how they intend to leverage this fellowship to advance health research within their home country or institution, demonstrating a strong dedication to capacity building in their local research environments.
- Interest in biomedical innovation and entrepreneurship is highly valued.
- Women candidates are especially encouraged to apply, to promote gender balance in biomedical research leadership across sub-Saharan Africa.
Fellowship Benefits
The SAHRI Fellowship fully funds all stages of the training, beginning with enrollment in the Master in Tropical Medicine programme and extending through the subsequent phases of the fellowship. Financial support covers a wide range of essential expenses, ensuring fellows can focus exclusively on their professional and academic development without financial stress.
- Full tuition fees and internship-related costs
- Accommodation during the fellowship period
- A living stipend to cover daily expenses
- All research-related costs necessary for the successful completion of fellowship activities
- International airfare to facilitate travel between the home country and the hosting institution
- Comprehensive health insurance coverage
Learn More and Apply
For more detailed information regarding the fellowship structure, application process, and eligibility criteria, prospective applicants are encouraged to Visit the Official Webpage of the sub-Saharan Africa Health Research and Innovation Fellowship Program. This resource provides comprehensive guidance to help candidates prepare competitive applications and clarify any questions about the program.
