The African STARS Fellowship Programme 2026 for young health professionals and Entrepreneurs (Fully Funded) – Opportunities For Africans

Application Deadline: 31 January 2026

Applications are actually open for the 2026 African STARS Fellowship Programme. 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 happy to announce the subsequent name for functions for the African STARS Fellowship Programme. This prestigious initiative, supported by the Mastercard Foundation, goals to develop the subsequent technology of African leaders in genomics, diagnostic.

The African STARS Fellowship Programme goals to develop the subsequent technology of African leaders in genomics, diagnostics, vaccine design, and biotechnology innovation. Fellows will achieve superior technical experience, management expertise, and profession improvement Opportunities in cutting-edge fields important for strengthening Africa’s health sector.

Fellowship Tracks

Advanced and Translational Training (ATT) Fellowship – 4 months

• Intensive coaching in superior genomics for public health, genomic diagnostic design, and/or vaccine manufacturing.
• Designed for early-career scientists and professionals looking for specialised technical coaching.
• Includes management improvement in grants and monetary administration, staff administration, and strategic management.

Young Professional Programme (YPP) Fellowship – 12 months

• Focus on biotechnology innovation and entrepreneurship, together with placements at industrial firms, trade, or innovation hubs.
• Training in important considering, problem-solving, writing, grantsmanship, efficient communication, and undertaking administration.
• Designed for young scientists and entrepreneurs aiming to bridge the hole between analysis and trade.

Eligibility Criteria

• Born in and/or dwelling in Africa
• 35 years previous or youthful
• Relevant postgraduate qualification (minimal Master’s diploma, PhD advantageous)
• ATT Track: Minimum 3 years of analysis, innovation, or trade expertise
• YPP Track: Minimum 5 years expertise in analysis administration, innovation, or commercialization; prior expertise in biotech startups, innovation hubs, or translational analysis advantageous
• Demonstrated excellence in genomics, diagnostics, biotechnology, or vaccine improvement
• Strong management potential and dedication to advancing scientific capability in Africa
• Willingness to stay in Africa to contribute to native scientific, enterprise, and public health initiatives
• Fluency in English or French (proficiency in each is a bonus)
• Women are strongly inspired to apply

Fellowship Benefits

• Fully funded coaching, together with journey, visa help, and lodging
• Monthly stipend to cowl dwelling bills
• Mentorship and profession improvement help
• Placement Opportunities at main analysis institutes, biotechnology hubs, and trade companions
• Access to an intensive African STARS Alumni Network for continued collaboration and skilled development

Application Requirements

• Completed application type:
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) – Download template
• At least one letter of advice from tutorial or skilled referees

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the African STARS Fellowship Programme