Are you a researcher in Central or East Africa looking to advance your skills in virus genomics or outbreak modeling? The ViGOR Research Fellowships 2026 offer a great chance to lead projects with real public health impact. This program supports early-career experts to build local expertise during virus outbreaks.
What is the ViGOR Consortium?
The ViGOR project, funded by the UK’s National Institute for Health Research, works to improve public health in Central and East Africa. It partners with groups like the University of Warwick’s Mathematics Department, KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme in Kenya, KEMRI-Centre for Virus Research in Kenya, Institut National de Recherche Biomédicale in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Institut National de Recherche pour l’Agriculture, la Pêche et l’Environnement in Comoros.
The main goal is to provide better access to genomics, bioinformatics, and outbreak modeling tools. These skills help countries respond faster to viral threats. Fellows will work on projects that strengthen these systems right in their home regions.
Types of Fellowships Available
ViGOR offers two kinds of fellowships, with five spots in each area. Genomic Research Fellowships focus on virus sequencing and bioinformatics. Outbreak Modelling Fellowships center on mathematical and epidemiological modeling for outbreaks.
Each fellowship lasts 9 to 12 months. Fellows carry out research projects with clear benefits for public health. This setup helps build skills that last beyond the program.
Funding Support
Successful applicants get budget support for their projects. Outbreak Modelling Fellowships provide up to £10,000. Genomics Fellowships offer up to £15,000.
Applicants must submit a project description and a detailed budget with reasons for each cost. This ensures funds go toward meaningful work, like equipment or data analysis.
Who Can Apply?
You need a Master’s or PhD, with no more than six years since your PhD. Work in public health labs, departments, universities, or research institutions in Eastern or Central Africa. Full-time employment or affiliation there is required.
Your home institute must confirm salary support during the fellowship. Supervisors should back your skills for the project.
What to Include in Your Application
Prepare these items:
- A 2-3 page research proposal with budget and explanations. Use the provided template.
- CV up to three pages.
- Info on your home institute supervisor and why they fit.
- Academic certificates.
- Motivation statement on why you deserve this.
- Letter from your institute about salary support.
- Letter from your supervisor.
How to Submit Your Application
Apply through the online form at the KEMRI-Wellcome jobs site. For full details, check the ViGOR Research Fellowships page.
Key Deadline
Submit by April 30, 2026. Start preparing now to meet this date and boost your career in outbreak response.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ViGOR Consortium?
ViGOR, funded by the UK’s National Institute for Health Research, partners with institutions in Central and East Africa to improve access to genomics, bioinformatics, and outbreak modeling tools for better virus responses.
Who is eligible to apply for the fellowships?
You need a Master’s or PhD with no more than six years since your PhD, and full-time employment or affiliation with public health labs, universities, or research institutions in Central or East Africa.
What funding and duration do the fellowships offer?
Fellowships last 9-12 months with up to £15,000 for genomics projects and £10,000 for outbreak modeling, including budget support justified in your application.
How and when should I apply?
Apply online through the KEMRI-Wellcome jobs site by April 30, 2026, submitting a research proposal, CV, motivation statement, and required support letters using the provided template.
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