The African STARS Fellowship Programme 2026 is a prestigious, fully funded capacity-building initiative designed to develop the next generation of African leaders in genomics, diagnostics, biotechnology, and epidemic preparedness. The programme is jointly implemented by the Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI) at Stellenbosch University in South Africa and the Institut Pasteur de Dakar through its Center for Africa’s Resilience to Epidemics (CARE).
Backed by the Mastercard Foundation, the fellowship responds to Africa’s urgent need for a highly skilled scientific workforce capable of preventing, detecting, and responding to infectious disease outbreaks. Applications for the 2026 cohort are now open, with a closing date of 31 January 2026.
Overview of the African STARS Fellowship Programme
Africa has the world’s fastest-growing young population and continues to face a heavy burden of infectious diseases. Despite this challenge, the continent has limited local capacity in genomics, diagnostics, vaccine development, and biotechnology innovation. The African STARS Fellowship Programme was created to bridge this gap.
The fellowship equips talented African professionals with advanced technical skills, leadership training, and real-world industry exposure, ensuring they can contribute meaningfully to national and regional health systems. Fellows are trained not only as scientists but also as innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders committed to strengthening Africa’s epidemic preparedness and response systems.
Fellowship Tracks Available in 2026
The African STARS Fellowship Programme offers two distinct training tracks, each designed to meet different career stages and professional goals.
1. Advanced and Translational Training (ATT) Programme – 4 Months
The ATT Fellowship is an intensive, short-term programme focused on advanced technical expertise. It is ideal for early-career scientists seeking specialized training in high-impact areas.
Key focus areas include:
- Advanced genomics for public health
- Genomic diagnostic design
- Vaccine manufacturing and translational research
- Biotechnology innovation
In addition to technical training, ATT fellows receive leadership development in grant management, financial planning, team leadership, and strategic decision-making.
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2. Young Professional Programme (YPP) – 12 Months
The Young Professional Programme (YPP) is a year-long fellowship designed for scientists, innovators, and entrepreneurs who want to bridge the gap between research and industry.
Programme highlights include:
- Training in biotechnology innovation and entrepreneurship
- Placement opportunities in biotech companies, innovation hubs, or industry settings
- Skill development in critical thinking, project management, communication, grantsmanship, and scientific writing
- Exposure to commercialization and translational research pathways
The YPP track is particularly suited for professionals interested in transforming scientific research into scalable, real-world solutions.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the African STARS Fellowship Programme 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Born in and/or currently living in Africa
- Be 35 years old or younger
- Hold a relevant postgraduate qualification (minimum of a Master’s degree; a PhD is an advantage)
- Demonstrate excellence or experience in genomics, diagnostics, biotechnology, or vaccine development
- Show strong leadership potential and commitment to Africa’s scientific advancement
- Be willing to remain in Africa after the fellowship to contribute to local health, research, or innovation ecosystems
- Be fluent in English or French (proficiency in both is an advantage)
Track-specific requirements:
- ATT Track: Minimum of 3 years of experience in research, innovation, or industry
- YPP Track: Minimum of 5 years of experience in research management, innovation, commercialization, or related fields
Women are strongly encouraged to apply.
Fellowship Benefits
The African STARS Fellowship Programme is fully funded, removing financial barriers for successful applicants. Benefits include:
- Full coverage of travel, visa support, and accommodation
- A monthly stipend to cover living expenses
- Access to world-class research institutions and biotechnology hubs
- Dedicated mentorship and career development support
- Placement opportunities with leading academic, industry, and innovation partners
- Membership in the African STARS Alumni Network offers long-term collaboration and professional growth opportunities
Application Requirements and Deadline
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- A completed online application form
- A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) (official template provided)
- At least one letter of recommendation from an academic or professional referee
Application Deadline: 31 January 2026 (00:00 GMT)
Applicants must apply through the correct form based on their chosen track, as ATT and YPP have separate application portals.
Download the Curriculum Vitae (CV) Template
Why Apply for the African STARS Fellowship?
The African STARS Fellowship Programme is more than a training opportunity—it is a platform for shaping Africa’s future in health security, biotechnology innovation, and epidemic preparedness. Fellows gain not only technical excellence but also leadership confidence, industry exposure, and a powerful professional network across the continent.
For African scientists and innovators committed to making a lasting impact, the African STARS Fellowship 2026 represents a rare and transformative opportunity.
For more information, visit the African STARS Fellowship.
