Deadline: November 30, 2025
Applications are now open for the Harry Oppenheimer Fellowship Award 2025, the most prestigious research award granted by the Oppenheimer Memorial Trust. With a value of R2.5 million, this fellowship supports outstanding scholars whose groundbreaking research has the potential to advance knowledge, contribute to global development, and leave a lasting impact.
About the Harry Oppenheimer Fellowship Award 2025
Established in 2001, the Harry Oppenheimer Fellowship Award was created to honour the legacy of Harry Oppenheimer and his lifelong dedication to intellectual and human development. It is awarded annually to scholars in South Africa whose cutting-edge academic work demonstrates excellence, boldness, and transformative impact across disciplines.
The fellowship is not limited to one field of study. Past laureates have spanned diverse areas such as:
- Biochemistry and Biology
- Engineering and Physics
- Mathematics and Computer Science
- Philosophy and Social Sciences
- History and Humanities
- Medicine and Neurosciences
This interdisciplinary scope ensures that innovation in every field of research is recognised and supported.
Award Value
- Fellowship amount: R2.5 million
- Purpose: To support bold, world-class research projects with national and global significance.
- Disbursement: At the discretion of the Trustees of the Oppenheimer Memorial Trust.
Eligibility Criteria
The award is open to:
- Top-tier scholars engaged in research of global relevance.
- Researchers advancing teaching, knowledge, research, and development in South Africa and beyond.
- Individuals whose work demonstrates innovation, originality, and the potential for long-term impact.
Note: Only applications and nominations submitted through the official application portal will be considered. Incomplete or emailed submissions will not be accepted.
Application Process & Deadline
- Deadline for applications: November 30, 2025
- Submission method: Online portal only (no email submissions).
- Shortlisted candidates: Must be available for interviews during the first quarter of 2026.
Awards are granted at the sole discretion of the Trustees of the Oppenheimer Memorial Trust.
Previous Awardees (2025)
In 2025, the Fellowship was awarded to two outstanding scholars:
- Professor Andrew Forbes (University of the Witwatersrand)
- Recognised for his pioneering work in quantum computing, with potential to revolutionise computing power and drive South Africa’s future economic development.
- Professor Anthony Figaji (University of Cape Town)
- Honoured for groundbreaking contributions in paediatric neurosurgery, especially research into brain injuries in children and their treatment.
Both laureates exemplify the award’s mission to encourage bold, original research that has both local and global significance.
Summary at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Fellowship | Harry Oppenheimer Fellowship Award 2025 |
| Value | R 2.5 million |
| Application Deadline | November 30, 2025 |
| Submission Method | Official portal only (no emails, no partials) |
| Shortlist Interviews | First quarter of 2026 |
| 2025 Laureates | Prof. Andrew Forbes & Prof. Anthony Figaji |
Final Notes
The Harry Oppenheimer Fellowship Award 2025 is more than funding; it is an investment in intellectual leadership, innovation, and transformative research. If you are a scholar working on bold, world-class ideas that can shape the future, this is your opportunity to apply.
👉 (contact us for proposal drafting, refinning and review)
