ViGOR Research Fellowships 2026: Funding & Training for African Public Health Researchers

Introduction

The ViGOR Research Fellowships 2026 are now open, offering a transformative opportunity for African researchers to deepen their expertise in virus genomics and outbreak modelling. Delivered through the KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme and global partners, this initiative is designed to strengthen Africa’s leadership in infectious disease research and response.

With increasing global health threats, this fellowship equips researchers with advanced tools, funding, and mentorship to tackle real-world public health challenges.

About the ViGOR Fellowship Programme

The Virus Genomics for Outbreak Response (ViGOR) consortium is a global health initiative focused on enhancing research capacity in Central and East Africa. By integrating genomics, bioinformatics, and epidemiological modelling, the program empowers scientists to respond effectively to viral outbreaks.

The fellowship runs for 9–12 months and supports innovative, high-impact research projects aligned with public health priorities.

Fellowship Tracks Available

🧬 Genomic Research Fellowships (GRF)

• Focus: Virus sequencing and bioinformatics
• Number of positions: 5
• Funding: Up to £15,000

📊 Outbreak Modelling Fellowships (OMF)

• Focus: Mathematical and epidemiological modelling
• Number of positions: 5
• Funding: Up to £10,000

Key Benefits of the ViGOR Fellowship

• Research funding of up to £15,000
• Access to world-class mentorship and international networks
• Hands-on training in genomics, bioinformatics, and disease modelling
• Opportunities to present at regional and global conferences
• Participation in specialized short courses and workshops
• Contribution to policy-relevant public health research

Funding Details

The fellowship supports research-related costs, including:

• Laboratory reagents and consumables
• Data analysis tools and computing resources
• Travel for conferences, workshops, or mentor visits

Note: Funding does not cover salaries, stipends, or new fieldwork activities.

Research Focus Areas

Applicants must propose projects aligned with:

• Virus genomics and sequencing
• Bioinformatics pipelines
• Outbreak modelling
• Viral phylodynamics
• Integration of genomic and epidemiological data for policy impact

Projects must already have ethical approval and demonstrate clear public health relevance.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should:

• Be early-career researchers with a Master’s or PhD (within 6 years post-PhD)
• Be affiliated full-time with a recognized academic, research, or public health institution
• Be based in Central or East Africa
• Have ongoing research projects aligned with ViGOR themes

Application Requirements

Candidates must submit:

• A 2–3 page research proposal (with budget and justification)
• Updated CV (max 3 pages)
• Academic certificates
• Motivation statement
• Institutional support letter
• Supervisor support letter

Key Dates

• Application Opens: March 24, 2026
• Application Deadline: April 30, 2026
• Interviews: Third week of May 2026
• Start Date: July 1, 2026

Why This Fellowship Matters

Africa continues to face a significant burden of infectious diseases. However, gaps remain in advanced research areas such as genomics and outbreak modelling. The ViGOR Fellowship addresses this by building local expertise and empowering African researchers to lead both regional and global health solutions.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online only. Ensure all documents are complete and aligned with the fellowship requirements.

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