The AREF Research Development Fellowships 2025/26; April 14, 2025
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Introduction
The Africa Research Excellence Fund (AREF) is calling for applications for its Research Development Fellowships (RDF) 2025/26, a prestigious program designed to empower early-career African researchers in the field of human health. This fellowship offers a unique opportunity to enhance research skills, build international collaborations, and contribute to solving critical health challenges in Africa.
In this blog, we’ll explore the key details of the fellowship, including its aims, benefits, eligibility criteria, and application process. Whether you’re a clinician, PhD holder, or a researcher with a master’s degree, this guide will help you determine if the AREF RDF is the right stepping stone for your career.
What is the AREF Research Development Fellowship?
Aim of the Fellowship
The AREF RDF aims to nurture emerging African researchers by providing them with advanced training, mentorship, and resources to become independent research leaders. The program focuses on addressing significant health challenges in Africa, including infectious and non-communicable diseases.
What Does the Fellowship Offer?
- A 3 to 9-month placement at a leading research institution in the UK, Europe, or Africa.
- Funding of up to £47,000, covering accommodation, travel, training, and research costs.
- Mentorship support to enhance professional development.
- A grant-writing workshop to strengthen funding proposal skills.
- Opportunity to apply for Seed Funds (up to £50,000) after completing the fellowship.
Expected Outcomes
By the end of the fellowship, awardees should demonstrate:
- Enhanced research skills and independence.
- Stronger collaborations and networks.
- Success in securing further research funding.
- Increased impact through publications and health solutions.
Who Can Apply?
Eligibility Criteria
- Nationality & Residency
- Must be a national of an African country.
- Should be employed (at least 30% full-time) at an African research institution.
- Academic Qualifications
- PhD holders (or equivalent) in a health-related field.
- Clinicians with an MBBS + specialist qualification (e.g., FRCP, FWACP) OR a master’s degree with a research component.
- If currently pursuing a PhD, the thesis must be defended by 27 June 2025.
- Research Experience
- Early-career researchers (ECRs) within 8 years of their highest degree (exceptions for career breaks).
- At least 3 years of research experience (but not more than 10).
- Minimum 3 first-author publications (or equivalent outputs).
- Must not have previously won a major grant (>£300,000).
- Host & Employing Institutions
- Host Organisation (HO): Must be in Africa or Europe, with a strong research track record.
- Employing Organisation (EO): Must be an African institution that guarantees salary and research support.
Fellowship Structure & Funding
Program Timeline
| Phase | Duration | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Preparatory Period | 1-3 months | Planning, training, and ethical approvals. |
| Placement (Core Phase) | 3-9 months | Research training, collaborations, and skill development at a host institution. |
| Follow-up Period | 1-3 months | Implementing new skills, writing grant proposals, and disseminating findings. |
Funding Breakdown
- 3-month placement: Up to £25,000
- 6-month placement: Up to £37,000
- 9-month placement: Up to £47,000
Additional Opportunities
- Seed Fund Competition: After the fellowship, awardees can apply for up to £50,000 to generate pilot data for larger grants.
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How to Apply?
Key Steps
- Read the Guidelines
- Review the Scheme Information and Guidance on Completing the Application Form.
- Prepare Your Proposal
- Define your research goals, training needs, and host institution.
- Secure support letters from both Employing and Host Organisations.
- Submit Online
- Applications must be submitted via the AREF Portal.
- Deadline: 13:00 GMT, 27 June 2025.
Assessment Criteria
Applications will be evaluated based on:
- Research potential & career vision
- Fellowship plan & training relevance
- Host institution suitability & support
- Justification of resources
Key Dates & Deadlines
- 📅 Application Deadline: 27 June 2025
- 📅 Outcome Notification: December 2025
- 📅 Fellowship Start: June – December 2026
Why Apply for the AREF Fellowship?
- Accelerate Your Career: Gain world-class training and mentorship.
- Expand Your Network: Collaborate with leading researchers.
- Boost Funding Success: Develop competitive grant proposals.
- Make an Impact: Contribute to solving Africa’s pressing health challenges.
For further details, visit the AREF Website or contact them via the portal.
Don’t miss this chance to elevate your research career! Apply before 27 June 2025. 🚀
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For more announcements like this AREF’s 2025 Grant Writing Programme for Early-Career African Researchers, join us on Telegram