MARS Awards is seeking early-career health researchers in Africa

Entries are now open for the 2026 MARS Awards, a programme designed to strengthen scientific research across Africa. The initiative highlights the importance of women’s health and reproductive care, bringing together researchers, institutions and policymakers.

Contents

Aim What’s on offer Who can apply How to apply Deadline

It provides a platform for early-career scientists to showcase research addressing real health challenges on the continent.

Aim

The MARS Awards aim to build Africa’s research capacity by encouraging emerging scientists to present innovative and relevant studies.

Key objectives include:

Promoting women and young researchers in STEM, giving them space to lead and contribute to long-term scientific progress.
Offering exposure to experts shaping healthcare strategies across Africa through the MARS summit.

What’s on offer

While the programme does not provide direct financial grants, it offers manifold career advantages:

Research presentation at the Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit (MARS).
Engagement with leading scientists and policymakers in health and science.
Broad professional networks and collaborative opportunities for future research.
Increased visibility within the African and global scientific community.

Who can apply

The call is open to emerging researchers across Africa whose work aligns with the summit’s themes. Eligible applicants include:

PhD students
Young investigators
Medical doctors in postgraduate fellowship programmes
Early-career researchers conducting studies in health or related fields

How to apply

Applicants must submit an abstract summarising their research focus, methodology and expected contributions.

Submissions should:

Demonstrate originality and scientific rigour.
Address women’s health, reproductive care, or broader scientific challenges affecting African communities.
Highlight the potential for real-world impact and relevance.