Applications are now open for the African STARS Fellowship Programme, a flagship initiative led by the Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI) at Stellenbosch University, South Africa, in partnership with the Center for Africa’s Resilience to Epidemics (CARE) at the Institut Pasteur de Dakar, Senegal. The programme is supported by the Mastercard Foundation.

About the Fellowship

Africa continues to face a high burden of infectious disease outbreaks while also being home to the world’s fastest-growing youth population. The African STARS Fellowship was created to address this challenge by strengthening local scientific leadership and technical capacity in areas critical to epidemic preparedness and response.

The fellowship supports the development of emerging African leaders in genomics, diagnostics, vaccine development, and biotechnology innovation, equipping them with advanced skills, leadership training, and real-world experience.

Fellowship Tracks

1. Advanced & Translational Training (ATT) Fellowship Duration: 4 months
This track offers intensive, hands-on training in:

• Advanced genomics for public health

• Genomic diagnostics design

• Vaccine manufacturing and translational science

Participants also receive leadership training in grant management, financial oversight, team leadership, and strategic decision-making. The ATT track is designed for early-career scientists and professionals seeking to deepen their technical expertise.

2. Young Professional Programme (YPP) Fellowship
Duration: 12 months
This track focuses on biotechnology innovation and entrepreneurship, with opportunities for placements at:

• Commercial biotechnology companies

• Industry partners

• Innovation hubs and research-to-market platforms

The programme emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, scientific writing, grantsmanship, communication skills, and project management. It is tailored for young professionals interested in translating research into scalable health solutions.

Don't miss out on the application deadline which is 8 February 2026.