The ViGOR Research Fellowships 2026 offer African researchers a chance to build skills in virus genomics and outbreak modeling. This program helps early-career scientists from Central and East Africa lead efforts against infectious diseases. Backed by the KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme and global partners, it provides funding, training, and mentorship for projects that matter to public health.
About the ViGOR Fellowship Programme
The Virus Genomics for Outbreak Response (ViGOR) consortium works to boost research skills in Central and East Africa. It combines genomics, bioinformatics, and epidemiological modeling to help scientists handle viral outbreaks better. The fellowship lasts 9 to 12 months and funds projects that create real impact on health issues.
Fellowship Tracks Available
Genomic Research Fellowships (GRF)
This track focuses on virus sequencing and bioinformatics. It offers 5 positions with funding up to £15,000. Fellows work on projects that improve how viruses are studied and tracked.
Outbreak Modelling Fellowships (OMF)
This track centers on mathematical and epidemiological modeling. It also has 5 positions with funding up to £10,000. Fellows develop models to predict and control disease spread.
Key Benefits of the ViGOR Fellowship
Fellows receive up to £15,000 in research funding. They gain access to top mentors and international networks. The program includes hands-on training in genomics, bioinformatics, and disease modeling. Participants can present work at regional and global conferences. They also join short courses, workshops, and policy-focused research.
Funding Details
Funding covers costs like laboratory reagents and consumables. It includes data analysis tools and computing resources. Travel for conferences, workshops, or mentor visits is supported. Salaries, stipends, or new fieldwork are not included.
Research Focus Areas
Projects must fit these areas: virus genomics and sequencing, bioinformatics pipelines, outbreak modeling, viral phylodynamics, and combining genomic and epidemiological data for policy. All projects need ethical approval already in place. They should show clear links to public health needs.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must be early-career researchers with a Master’s or PhD obtained within the last 6 years. They need full-time affiliation with an academic, research, or public health institution. Candidates must live and work in Central or East Africa. Ongoing projects should match ViGOR themes.
Application Requirements
Submit a 2-3 page research proposal with budget and justification. Include an updated CV (maximum 3 pages), academic certificates, motivation statement, institutional support letter, and supervisor support letter.
Key Dates
- Application opens: March 24, 2026
- Application deadline: April 30, 2026
- Interviews: Third week of May 2026
- Start date: July 1, 2026
How to Apply
Submit applications online only. Make sure all documents are complete and meet the requirements. Check the official ViGOR site for the application form and more details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ViGOR Fellowship Programme?
It is a 9-12 month program backed by KEMRI-Wellcome Trust that funds projects in virus genomics and outbreak modeling for African researchers.
Who can apply for the fellowships?
Early-career researchers with a Master’s or PhD from the last 6 years, based in Central or East Africa, and affiliated with a research institution.
What does the funding cover?
It covers lab reagents, data tools, computing, and travel for conferences or mentor visits, but not salaries or new fieldwork.
When is the application deadline?
Applications open on March 24, 2026, and close on April 30, 2026, with projects starting July 1, 2026.
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