The sub-Saharan Africa Health Research and Innovation Fellowship Program (SAHRI Fellowship) 2026 for mid-career clinical or biomedical scientists (Fully Funded)
Henry Izuu 
Launch Your Career as a Health Leader: Apply for the Fully Funded SAHRI Fellowship 2026
Keywords: SAHRI Fellowship 2026, Sub-Saharan Africa, Fully Funded Fellowship, Biomedical Innovation, Clinical Research, Master of Science in Tropical Medicine
About the Program
The sub-Saharan Africa Health Research and Innovation Fellowship Program (SAHRI Fellowship) 2026 is now accepting applications from talented mid-career researchers committed to addressing infectious disease challenges across the region. This exceptional opportunity will select 12 promising biomedical and clinical researchers from sub-Saharan Africa for a comprehensive three-year training program.
The sub-Saharan Africa Health Research and Innovation Fellowship Program (SAHRI Fellowship) 2026 specializes in infectious disease prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and control throughout sub-Saharan Africa. Funded by the Global Health EDCTP3 and implemented by a consortium led by the Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp (ITM) in partnership with BioNTech, this fellowship represents a transformative pathway for emerging African health leaders.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the sub-Saharan Africa Health Research and Innovation Fellowship Program (SAHRI Fellowship) 2026, applicants must meet these essential criteria:
Nationality and Travel Documents
- Must be a national of a sub-Saharan African country
- Must possess a valid passport for international travel
Educational Background
- Hold a university degree equivalent to a Master’s degree in the European Union
- Meet all admission requirements for the Master of Science in Tropical Medicine program
Research Experience and Focus
- Demonstrate genuine interest in infectious disease research aligned with EDCTP Strategic Research Agenda priorities
- Previous research experience or publications are considered an advantage
Institutional Requirements
- Provide proof of institutional support confirming approval for necessary leave of absence during the fellowship period
- Show commitment to building research capacity in home institution or country upon return
Vision and Commitment
- Articulate a clear vision for advancing health research in Africa
- Display strong interest in biomedical innovation and entrepreneurship
Note: Women researchers are strongly encouraged to apply for the sub-Saharan Africa Health Research and Innovation Fellowship Program (SAHRI Fellowship) 2026.
Benefits
The sub-Saharan Africa Health Research and Innovation Fellowship Program (SAHRI Fellowship) 2026 provides comprehensive financial support covering all aspects of the three-year program:
Full Financial Coverage Includes:
- Complete tuition fees for the Master of Science in Tropical Medicine
- All internship-related costs
- Accommodation throughout the program duration
- Monthly living stipend
- Research-related expenses and materials
- International air travel (round-trip flights)
- Comprehensive health insurance coverage
This fully funded structure ensures that fellows can focus entirely on their professional development without financial constraints, making the sub-Saharan Africa Health Research and Innovation Fellowship Program (SAHRI Fellowship) 2026 accessible to talented researchers regardless of their financial circumstances.
Application Guidelines
Candidates interested in the sub-Saharan Africa Health Research and Innovation Fellowship Program (SAHRI Fellowship) 2026 should prepare their applications carefully, ensuring all eligibility criteria are met before submission.
Key Application Considerations:
- Review all admission requirements for the Master of Science in Tropical Medicine at ITM Antwerp
- Secure written institutional support confirming leave of absence approval
- Prepare a compelling statement outlining your vision for advancing African health research
- Demonstrate your commitment to biomedical innovation and entrepreneurship
- Highlight any previous research experience, publications, or relevant achievements
For comprehensive application details and official guidelines, candidates should visit the official webpage of the sub-Saharan Africa Health Research and Innovation Fellowship Program (SAHRI Fellowship) 2026.
Required Documents
While specific document requirements should be confirmed through the official program webpage, applicants for the sub-Saharan Africa Health Research and Innovation Fellowship Program (SAHRI Fellowship) 2026 should typically prepare:
- Valid passport (for international travel verification)
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates (proving Master’s level qualification)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing research experience and publications
- Letter of institutional support from current employer
- Research interest statement aligned with EDCTP priorities
- Vision statement for advancing health research in Africa
- Proof of meeting Master of Science in Tropical Medicine admission requirements
Ensure all documents are prepared in the required format and language as specified by the Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp.
Program Structure and Duration
The sub-Saharan Africa Health Research and Innovation Fellowship Program (SAHRI Fellowship) 2026 offers a carefully structured three-year professional development pathway comprising three distinct phases:
Phase 1: Academic Foundation (Year 1) Fellows complete the research-oriented Master of Science in Tropical Medicine (60 ECTS credits) at the Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp, Belgium. The program features a flexible, modular structure. Fellows also participate in the Systems Thinking in Biotech Development course at KULeuven, Belgium.
Phase 2: Practical Placement (Year 2) This phase includes a six-month internship at BioNTech headquarters in Mainz, Germany, providing hands-on experience in cutting-edge biomedical innovation. Fellows then gain practical research experience working with scientists from the East African Consortium for Clinical Research (EACCR) member centers or at the Clinical Research Unit of Nanoro (IRSS-CRUN) in Burkina Faso.
Phase 3: Return-Home Implementation (Year 3) Fellows return to their home countries or regions to implement an independent research project, advancing local research capacity and innovation. This phase may include pursuing PhD studies while building sustainable impact within home institutions.
Why You Should Apply
The sub-Saharan Africa Health Research and Innovation Fellowship Program (SAHRI Fellowship) 2026 offers unparalleled opportunities for mid-career African researchers:
Transform Your Career Trajectory Gain world-class training at prestigious European institutions while maintaining strong connections to African health priorities and challenges.
Build International Networks Collaborate with leading scientists at ITM Antwerp, BioNTech, and premier African research centers, creating lasting professional relationships across continents.
Drive Regional Impact Return home equipped with advanced skills, international experience, and resources to address urgent infectious disease challenges facing sub-Saharan Africa.
Zero Financial Barriers The fully funded nature of the sub-Saharan Africa Health Research and Innovation Fellowship Program (SAHRI Fellowship) 2026 ensures financial constraints never limit talent and potential.
Contribute to Innovation Gain expertise in biomedical innovation and entrepreneurship, positioning yourself to develop novel solutions for African health challenges.
Leadership Development Join an elite cohort of just 12 fellows selected to become the next generation of African health research leaders.
How to Apply
To apply for the sub-Saharan Africa Health Research and Innovation Fellowship Program (SAHRI Fellowship) 2026, follow these steps:
- Review Eligibility: Carefully verify that you meet all eligibility requirements outlined above.
- Prepare Documents: Gather all required documentation, including academic credentials, institutional support letters, and personal statements.
- Submit Formal Application: Complete and submit your formal application to the Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp specifically for admission to the Master of Science in Tropical Medicine – SAHRI Fellowship program.
- Visit Official Website: For detailed application procedures, forms, and additional information, visit the official webpage of the sub-Saharan Africa Health Research and Innovation Fellowship Program (SAHRI Fellowship) 2026.
- Seek Clarification: If you have questions about the application process, contact the Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp directly through their official channels.
Deadline
The application deadline for the sub-Saharan Africa Health Research and Innovation Fellowship Program (SAHRI Fellowship) 2026-2029 cohort is 1 February 2026.
Mark this critical date in your calendar and plan to submit your application well in advance to avoid last-minute technical issues. Late applications will not be considered. Don’t miss this exceptional opportunity to join the next cohort of African health research leaders!
Take the next step in your career. Apply for the sub-Saharan Africa Health Research and Innovation Fellowship Program (SAHRI Fellowship) 2026 today and become part of the solution to Africa’s most pressing health challenges.
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