The NRF and the FirstRand Empowerment Foundation invite applications for the 2027 NRF-FREF Black Academics Advancement Programme(BAAP) @FREF Black Academics Advancement Programme(BAAP)

Overview

The NRF-FREF:BAAP program supports well-structured research projects for Black South African academics, focusing on research excellence, achievability, and career development.

Eligibility

General Eligibility:

• Must be Black South African citizens or South African citizens with a disability.
• Must hold a permanent or fixed-term full-time academic appointment at a South African public university.
• Applicants must not hold an active NRF A, B, C, or P rating, although those receiving a Y-rating may continue the grant.
• Grants cannot be held concurrently with Thuthuka, nGAP, SARChI, NRF Thematic grants, or similar programs.

PhD Track Eligibility:

• Registered or intending to register for a PhD in any discipline.
• Applicants should generally be under 45 years old; exceptions require motivation.
• Proposed research projects must have supervisor support.

Post-PhD Track Eligibility:

• Applicants should generally be under 45 years old; exceptions require motivation.
• PhD must have been completed within five years of application.

Ethical Clearance:

• All research must comply with South African or foreign laws and institutional ethical standards.
• Ethical approval must cover human and animal subjects, copyright, and intellectual property regulations.

Benefits

The program offers grants for PhD Track (three-year full grants, one- or two-year completion grants, six-month near-completion grants) and Post-PhD Track (one to two years in duration).

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted with a nomination letter from the Head of Department and a detailed self-motivation addressing academic and research career plans and intended outcomes. Consult the official website for the Call for Proposals and funding guide.

Deadline

Refer to the official website for specific deadlines.