Deadline: January 31, 2026
The African STARS Fellowship Programme 2026 is a prestigious, fully funded leadership and capacity-building initiative designed to equip Africa’s next generation of scientific leaders with advanced skills in genomics, diagnostics, vaccine development, and biotechnology innovation.
The African STARS Fellowship Programme 2026 is implemented by leading African research institutions and supported by global partners to strengthen Africa’s preparedness for epidemics and public health challenges.
About the African STARS Fellowship Programme 2026
The African STARS Fellowship Programme is supported by the Mastercard Foundation and jointly delivered by:
- Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI), Stellenbosch University, South Africa
- Centre for Africa’s Resilience to Epidemics (CARE), Institut Pasteur de Dakar, Senegal
The programme is designed to address critical skills gaps in Africa’s health and biotechnology ecosystem by developing highly skilled professionals who can lead innovation, research translation, and public health interventions across the continent.
Fellowship Tracks and Duration
The African STARS Fellowship Programme 2026 offers two distinct fellowship tracks, tailored to different career stages and professional needs.
1. Advanced and Translational Training (ATT) Fellowship
Duration: 4 months
This track focuses on advanced scientific and technical competencies, including:
- Genomics for public health
- Genomic diagnostic design
- Vaccine research, development, and manufacturing
- Biotechnology innovation
In addition to technical training, fellows receive leadership development in:
- Project management
- Financial management
- Translational research skills
2. Young Professional Programme (YPP) Fellowship
Duration: 12 months
The YPP Fellowship is designed for early-career professionals and innovators seeking deeper exposure to biotechnology innovation and leadership. Areas of focus include:
- Biotechnology innovation and entrepreneurship
- Critical thinking and problem-solving
- Science communication and stakeholder engagement
- Project and programme management
Fellows may be placed within commercial companies, innovation hubs, or research institutions, gaining real-world experience within Africa’s growing biotech ecosystem.
Fellowship Benefits (Fully Funded)
Successful candidates of the African STARS Fellowship Programme 2026 will receive comprehensive support, including:
- International and local travel support
- Visa assistance
- Accommodation during the fellowship period
- Monthly living stipend
- Structured mentorship and professional development
- Placement opportunities with leading research institutes and biotech partners
- Long-term access to the African STARS Alumni Network, enabling collaboration, networking, and career advancement
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be born in Africa and/or currently living in Africa
- Be 35 years old or younger at the time of application
- Hold a relevant postgraduate qualification (minimum of a Master’s degree; PhD is an added advantage)
- Demonstrate strong leadership potential and commitment to advancing Africa’s scientific and innovation ecosystem
- Be proficient in English or French (proficiency in both languages is an advantage)
Additional Experience Requirements
- ATT Fellowship: Minimum of 3 years of relevant research or industry experience
- YPP Fellowship: Minimum of 5 years of experience in research management, innovation, or biotechnology-related fields
Women are strongly encouraged to apply.
Application Requirements
Applicants will be required to submit the following:
- A completed online application form
- An up-to-date Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- At least one letter of recommendation
Applicants should ensure all documents are accurate, complete, and aligned with the selected fellowship track.
Application Deadline
- 31 January 2026
Early application is strongly encouraged due to the competitive nature of the programme.
Why Apply for the African STARS Fellowship Programme 2026?
The African STARS Fellowship Programme 2026 provides a unique opportunity to:
- Gain cutting-edge technical and leadership skills
- Work with leading African and global research institutions
- Build a strong professional network across Africa’s public health and biotech sectors
- Contribute meaningfully to Africa’s epidemic preparedness, innovation, and scientific leadership
Need Support With Your Application?
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review to strengthen your fellowship application and improve your chances of success.
