Applications are now open for the GSK Africa Open Lab initiative, aimed at advancing scientific research and building robust research capabilities in sub-Saharan Africa. The initiative supports early-career African scientists and clinicians through funding, training, and collaborative opportunities.
Mission
To strengthen research and development (R&D) capacity in Africa by supporting impactful, health-focused research that addresses the continent’s unique challenges and narrows the global research gap.
Funding Information
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Up to £100,000 per award
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Project duration: Up to 36 months
What the Award Covers
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Research project costs, including:
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Equipment
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Fieldwork and data collection
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Consumables
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Research assistance
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Training activities relevant to the project or career development (e.g., short courses or visits to research institutions)
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Ongoing scientific support from GSK throughout the award duration
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
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Be early-career African scientists or clinicians.
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Hold a graduate degree (e.g., MSc, PhD, PharmD, or MD).
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Hold a position such as lecturer, junior fellow, or other research staff role.
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Be employed by a research or academic institution.
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Be a national of a sub-Saharan African country.
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Show a track record and commitment to health-related research.
Clinicians are strongly encouraged to apply.
Eligible Research Areas
Proposals must focus on one or more of the following:
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Malaria
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Tuberculosis (including drug-resistant TB)
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Drug-resistant bacterial infections
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Enteric infections
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Infectious disease epidemiology, pathophysiology, aetiology, prevention, or treatment.
Application Process
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The application consists of two stages:
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Preliminary Concept Application
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Full Application (by invitation only)
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Selection is based on scientific merit
How to Apply
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Register on the GSK website to access the Preliminary Concept Application form.
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Complete the form and submit it along with your CV (use the CV template provided).
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Carefully review the Conditions for Applicants before submission.
Deadline: September 3, 2025
The GSK Africa Open Lab initiative is accepting applications to promote scientific research and enhance research capabilities in sub-Saharan Africa by supporting early-career African scientists and clinicians. Aimed at strengthening R&D capacity, it funds impactful, health-focused research tackling Africa's unique challenges and closing the global research gap.
Successful applicants can receive up to £100,000 for projects lasting up to 36 months, covering research project costs such as equipment, fieldwork, consumables, and research assistance, along with supporting training activities. Continuous scientific support from GSK is also provided during the award period.
Eligibility criteria include being an early-career African scientist or clinician with a relevant graduate degree, employment in a research or academic institution, and a track record in health-related research. Proposals should focus on areas like malaria, tuberculosis, drug-resistant infections, and more related to infectious diseases.
Applications involve a two-stage process: a Preliminary Concept Application followed, if shortlisted, by a Full Application. Selection is based on scientific merit, and candidates must submit a CV alongside their application. Registration and submission are through the GSK website, with a deadline of September 3, 2025.
