FUNDING - MRC/DFID African Research Leader scheme 2018

27 Nov 2017

Lack of grant funding and research infrastructure in many sub-Saharan African countries can make it difficult to attract and retain talented African scientists and as a result, African nationals are currently under-represented as leaders in medical research in the region. The ARL scheme invites applications from African researchers already based in sub-Saharan African countries and from those individuals currently working overseas who wish to return to SSA. We would particularly welcome high quality applications from female scientists and from investigators across a broad range of disciplines.

The scheme is open to talented and enthusiastic African investigators working in all biomedical and health research areas within the MRC/DFID remit on global health. A series of short case studies about the current awards are available showing the breadth of diseases being tackled and the different models of leadership. Priority will be given to applications that address the key health problems relevant to national and regional health needs and hence best conducted in SSA.

The African Research Leader will be nominated by a UK based principal investigator as part of the partnership between the African and UK institutions. The application must be submitted by the UK institution.

The awards provide support for up to five years. The grant package includes a potential contribution to the African Research Leader’s salary (up to 100% in the first year), funds for a programme of research and support for collaborative activities between the African and UK institutions.  

Strong applications will meet the four key elements of the scheme, namely:

  • a talented ‘rising star’ African Research Leader candidate,
  • a high-quality research programme proposal,
  • a research-conducive academic African environment / institution,
  • a firm partnership with a UK partner institution (where the principal investigator is based).

Applications close on 27th Feb 2018 16:00 GMT. Please click here for more information.