Call for Applications: African STARS Fellowship Program 2026

Published: 22 Dec 2025

2026 African STARS Fellowship Programme Applications are now Open 

The Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI) at Stellenbosch University in South Africa and Center for Africa’s Resilience to Epidemics (CARE) at the Institut Pasteur de Dakar (IPD) in Senegal are pleased to announce the next call for applications for the African STARS Fellowship Programme. This prestigious initiative, supported by the Mastercard Foundation, aims to develop the next generation of African leaders in genomics, diagnostic.

Programme Overview

Africa has the fastest-growing young population in the world, with a workforce expected to exceed one billion in the coming decades. At the same time, the continent faces a disproportionate burden of infectious disease outbreaks, highlighting the urgent need for a highly skilled workforce in epidemic preparedness and response.

The African STARS Fellowship Programme aims to develop the next generation of African leaders in genomics, diagnostics, vaccine design, and biotechnology innovation. Fellows will gain advanced technical expertise, leadership skills, and career development opportunities in cutting-edge fields essential for strengthening Africa’s health sector.

African STARS Fellowship Programme is in Two Tracks

Advanced and Translational Training (ATT) Fellowship – 4 months

• Intensive training in advanced genomics for public health, genomic diagnostic design, and/or vaccine manufacturing.
• Designed for early-career scientists and professionals seeking specialized technical training.
• Includes leadership development in grants and financial management, team management, and strategic leadership.

Young Professional Programme (YPP) Fellowship – 12 months

• Focus on biotechnology innovation and entrepreneurship, including placements at commercial companies, industry, or innovation hubs.
• Training in critical thinking, problem-solving, writing, grantsmanship, effective communication, and project management.
• Designed for young scientists and entrepreneurs aiming to bridge the gap between research and industry.

African STARS Fellowship Program

Application Deadline	January 31, 2026
Funding Type	Fully Funded
Type	Fellowship
Sponsor	Stellenbosch University

African STARS Fellowship Program Benefits

• Fully funded training, including travel, visa support, and accommodation
• Monthly stipend to cover living expenses
• Mentorship and career development support
• Placement opportunities at leading research institutes, biotechnology hubs, and industry partners
• Access to an extensive African STARS Alumni Network for continued collaboration and professional growth

Requirements for African STARS Fellowship Program

• Born in and/or living in Africa
• 35 years old or younger
• Relevant postgraduate qualification (minimum Master’s degree, PhD advantageous)
• ATT Track: Minimum 3 years of research, innovation, or industry experience
• YPP Track: Minimum 5 years experience in research management, innovation, or commercialization; prior experience in biotech startups, innovation hubs, or translational research advantageous
• Demonstrated excellence in genomics, diagnostics, biotechnology, or vaccine development
• Strong leadership potential and commitment to advancing scientific capacity in Africa
• Willingness to remain in Africa to contribute to local scientific, business, and public health initiatives
• Fluency in English or French (proficiency in both is an advantage)
• Women are strongly encouraged to apply

Check also:
Queen Elizabeth Scholarship (How to Apply)

Application Deadline

January 31, 2026

How to Apply

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