Cambridge-Africa ALBORADA Research Fund: A Gateway for African Researchers

The Cambridge-Africa ALBORADA Research Fund offers a significant opportunity for researchers in sub-Saharan Africa to collaborate with institutions at the University of Cambridge. This fund aims to foster new research partnerships and strengthen existing ones across all academic disciplines. By providing financial support, the program encourages the exchange of knowledge and the development of innovative research projects that benefit both African institutions and the University of Cambridge.

Understanding the ALBORADA Research Fund

Established in 2012 with support from The ALBORADA Trust, this research fund is designed to promote research, training, and engagement activities between Cambridge and African institutions. It specifically supports pairs of researchers, at the post-doctoral level or higher, who are looking to initiate or enhance collaborative research efforts. The core principle is to ensure a genuine partnership where both parties contribute equally to the project’s design and execution.

Eligibility and Application Requirements

To be eligible for the Cambridge-Africa ALBORADA Research Fund, applicants must be at post-doctoral level or above. The application process requires a joint submission from a researcher at the University of Cambridge (or an affiliated institution like the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, NIAB, or British Antarctic Survey) and a researcher from an African institution. Both researchers must have the support of their respective Heads of Department or equivalent.

The fund emphasizes that the collaboration should not be a one-sided service provision. Instead, it seeks to demonstrate true partnership and co-creation of research projects. This means that the funding should support activities that are mutually beneficial and contribute to the development of both research teams and institutions.

Funding Benefits and Scope

The Cambridge-Africa ALBORADA Research Fund competitively awards grants ranging from £1,000 to £25,000. These funds can be used for various research-related expenses. This includes covering costs for essential research materials such as reagents and equipment, as well as supporting fieldwork necessary for data collection.

Additionally, the grant can be used to fund research training activities taking place within Africa. This might involve organizing and conducting courses or workshops designed to build capacity and share expertise among researchers on the continent. The goal is to ensure that the funding directly supports the advancement of research and the development of research skills in Africa.

Application Procedure and Deadline

The application process for the Cambridge-Africa ALBORADA Research Fund is managed online through the Cambridge-Africa website. Both the Cambridge-based Principal Investigator (PI) and the African PI must register and complete a saveable online application form. It is important to note that applications can be submitted at any time before the deadline.

The final submission must include several key documents. These are: a case for support detailing the research and collaboration plans, an itemized budget using a provided template, a letter of support from the Cambridge PI’s department or faculty, a letter of support from the African PI’s department or institution, and CVs (maximum two pages) for both PIs. The deadline for all submissions is September 3, 2026. Any questions regarding the application process should be directed to the provided email address.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main goal of the Cambridge-Africa ALBORADA Research Fund?

The fund aims to create and strengthen research partnerships between sub-Saharan African institutions and the University of Cambridge, promoting knowledge exchange and joint project development.

Who is eligible to apply for this fund?

Researchers at the post-doctoral level or higher are eligible. Applications must be a joint effort between a researcher at Cambridge (or affiliated institutions) and a researcher from an African institution.

What kind of expenses can the grant cover?

The grant can fund research materials, equipment, fieldwork, and research training activities conducted within Africa, with awards ranging from £1,000 to £25,000.