Applications are open for the 2026–2029 Sub-Saharan Africa Health Research and Innovation Fellowship (SAHRI Fellowship), a fully funded programme aimed at strengthening the continent’s next generation of biomedical and clinical research leaders.

The fellowship, funded by Global Health EDCTP3 and delivered by a partnership of African and European institutions, offers a three-year professional development pathway for 12 mid-career scientists who are ready to advance research on infectious disease prevention, diagnostics, treatment, and control.

About the SAHRI Fellowship

The programme was created in response to the growing need for strong scientific leadership to address persistent and emerging health challenges across sub-Saharan Africa. Led by the Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp with contribution from BioNTech and regional research centres, it brings together academic excellence, industry exposure, and community-driven research practice.

The fellowship aims to develop researchers who combine strong scientific grounding with the ability to put innovation into practical use in their home countries.

Programme Structure

The SAHRI Fellowship is organised into three major phases:

1. Academic Phase (Year 1)

Fellows begin with intensive academic training in Belgium through:

• A Master of Science in Tropical Medicine at the Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp.

• A specialised course in Systems Thinking in Biotech Development at KU Leuven.

This phase equips participants with advanced scientific tools, critical thinking techniques, and new perspectives on global health innovation.

2. Placement Phase (Year 2)

Fellows gain hands-on experience in biomedical research and biotech innovation through:

• A six-month placement at BioNTech headquarters in Mainz, Germany.

• Additional training at partner research institutions across Africa, including:

  • East African Consortium for Clinical Research (Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda)

  • Clinical Research Unit of Nanoro (Burkina Faso)

This stage provides direct exposure to state-of-the-art research environments and mentorship from leading scientists.

3. Return-Home Phase (Year 3)

Fellows return to their home institutions to launch an independent research project that:

• Strengthens local research systems

• Builds sustainable collaborations

• Contributes to institutional capacity

• Supports long-term career development, including potential PhD pathways

Don't miss out on the application deadline which is 1 February 2026.

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link attached below to apply for this opportunity.