Postdoctoral Fellowship SOFAR 2026 Zimbabwe

Contexte

Early-career researchers in Zimbabwe have an opportunity to advance their careers through the Southern Africa Research Capacity Network (SOFAR) Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026. The prestigious 24-month fellowship is designed to strengthen research capacity in global health while supporting fellows to develop high-quality publications, build international collaborations, and compete successfully for independent research funding.

Hosted in Zimbabwe through the Biomedical Research and Training Institute (BRTI) and delivered as part of the Southern Africa Research Capacity Network, the fellowship contributes to developing the next generation of African researchers addressing pressing public health challenges across the region. About the SOFAR Postdoctoral Fellowship

The SOFAR Postdoctoral Fellowship is a structured career development programme that supports promising postdoctoral researchers during a critical stage of their academic journey. The fellowship combines research, mentorship, publication support, and professional development to help participants transition into independent investigators.

The initiative is implemented through a collaboration of leading regional and international institutions, including the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU Munich), the Biomedical Research and Training Institute (BRTI), THRU ZIM, Zambart, and Instituto Nacional de Saúde (INS). It is supported under the Global Health EDCTP3 programme and co-funded by the European Union.

Successful applicants will undertake the fellowship in Zimbabwe for a period of 24 months. During the programme, fellows will receive structured support to enhance their research productivity, strengthen scientific writing, expand professional networks, and prepare competitive grant applications for future independent funding opportunities.

Missions et responsabilités

• Conduct a 24-month postdoctoral research appointment in Zimbabwe focused on global health priorities.
• Develop high-quality peer-reviewed publications and increase publication output.
• Participate in mentorship with experienced global health researchers.
• Engage in training for research leadership and professional development.
• Build and maintain regional and international research collaborations.
• Prepare competitive grant applications and secure independent research funding.
• Generate evidence, influence policy, and lead impactful health research within the region addressing infectious diseases, public health emergencies, and health systems strengthening.

Profil recherché

• Early-career postdoctoral researchers pursuing careers in global health research.
• Candidates demonstrating research potential and a strong commitment to global health and improving health outcomes in Southern Africa.
• Applicants with previous research experience and scholarly achievements.
• Candidates possessing a strong academic CV highlighting publications and research outputs.

Conditions et avantages

• A 24-month postdoctoral research appointment in Zimbabwe.
• Mentorship from experienced global health researchers.
• Support to increase peer-reviewed publication output.
• Training in research leadership and professional development.
• Opportunities to build regional and international research collaborations.
• Guidance in preparing competitive applications for independent research funding.
• Fully funded research opportunity supported under the Global Health EDCTP3 programme and co-funded by the European Union.

Dossier de candidature

• Official SOFAR Application Form, fully completed.
• Application Guidance documentation followed meticulously.
• Strong academic CV highlighting publications and research outputs.
• Well-prepared supporting documentation outlining academic qualifications and required supporting documents as detailed in the official guidance.
• Clear and compelling research focus relevant to public health priorities.

Comment postuler

Applications must be submitted using the official SOFAR Application Form and in accordance with the Application Guidance provided by the Southern Africa Research Capacity Network.

Applicants should review all eligibility requirements, complete the official application form, and submit the required supporting documents before the deadline.

Date limite : 23 October 2026 at 17:00 CAT

An information webinar was held on 15 July 2026 to explain the fellowship, eligibility requirements, and application process. The webinar recording and presentation slides remain available through the SOFAR resources page for prospective applicants seeking additional guidance.

Visit the official website and resources page to access the application form, application guidance, and to submit your application.