The Africa Research Excellence Fund (AREF) has opened applications for its 2026/27 Research Development Fellowship (RDF).
This initiative is a critical lifeline for emerging scientists across the continent who are tackling major human health challenges.
The Research Development Fellowship aims to nurture high-potential researchers, providing them with the tools and networks necessary to become global leaders in their fields.
By bridging the gap between local talent and international expertise, AREF seeks to transform the African health research landscape.
Funding and benefits
Selected fellows can access up to £47,000 in financial support to fuel their professional growth. This significant investment covers a three to nine-month placement at a premier research institution located in the UK, Europe, or Africa.
The Research Development Fellowship grant is specifically designed to remove financial barriers by covering essential costs such as travel, professional training, and reasonable accommodation.
Subsistence allowances are also provided to ensure researchers can focus entirely on their scientific development during their time abroad.
It is important to note that while the fellowship funds the placement and its associated costs, it does not reimburse the researcher’s home institution for their salary.
However, participants receive additional mentorship and support at their home organizations both before and after their placement.
Application requirements and eligibility
The Research Development Fellowship is exclusively tailored for early-career researchers, including post-doctoral scientists and clinicians with advanced qualifications.
To qualify, applicants must be nationals of an African country and currently employed within a research capacity on the continent.
Collaboration is a core requirement of the RDF program. Prospective fellows must engage with leaders at both their home and host institutions early in the planning process to ensure sponsorship and organizational support.
Applications must be submitted through the official AREF digital portal. Candidates are strongly urged to review all guidance documents, including the scheme information and terms and conditions, before drafting their formal proposals.
Deadline
The deadline for all application documents is 13:00 GMT on May 8, 2026. Late submissions will not be considered, and applicants are encouraged to resolve any technical or program queries by April 27, 2026.
Successful candidates will be notified of the selection outcomes by December 2026. These fellowships are scheduled to commence between June and December 2027, marking a major milestone for African scientific excellence.
To apply, visit the Research Development Fellowship page to apply. Explore our global opportunities page for more.
Summary not available at this time.
