Overview

The Africa Research Excellence Fund (AREF) is offering the 2026/27 Research Development Fellowship (RDF) to support early career health researchers in Africa. This program aims to strengthen research leadership capacity by providing structured career development, international research placements, and funding.

Key Responsibilities

Not explicitly detailed, but implied to involve conducting research related to human health challenges and developing leadership skills.

Requirements

Research-active postdoctoral scientists or clinicians with higher qualifications
Nationals of an African country
Employed at an institution in Africa
Working on research related to important challenges in human health
Must secure agreement from their employing institution for continued salary support during the fellowship.

Benefits

Funding of up to £47,000 for a three to nine-month placement.
Placement at a leading research institution in the UK, Europe, or Africa.
Structured support before and after the placement.
Funding covers accommodation, travel, subsistence, and training/research development activities.
Mentorship and exposure to advanced research environments.
Opportunities to develop new collaborations.

Location

Africa (for applicants) with placements in the UK, Europe, or Africa.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted via the official AREF online portal. Applicants are strongly encouraged to read all guidance documents thoroughly and to have early discussions with their employing organization and proposed host institution.