AREF Women in Research Essential Grant Writing Skills Programme

Est No. of Applications so far: 18

The Africa Research Excellence Fund (AREF) is dedicated to enhancing the capacity of scientists in Africa who are addressing the continent’s major health challenges. Recognizing the importance of supporting diversity, AREF invites applications from female biomedical/health researchers to participate in its Essential Grant Writing Skills Programme.

The programme targets active and emerging biomedical/health researchers in Africa who are actively seeking independent funding but have yet to secure a substantial grant to support their research independence. The fully online programme spans eight 3-hour sessions scheduled between September 18, 2023, and November 6, 2023. During the five-week break between sessions, participants will be expected to draft a proposal. This intensive programme aims to generate tangible progress toward a grant proposal by the end of the programme, requiring participants’ full commitment and additional work outside of sessions.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Female health researcher/scientist
• Citizen of an African country
• Hold a research doctorate (PhD/DPhil/MD) awarded within the previous 6 years (on or after January 1, 2017), OR have a medical/clinical qualification and a research-relevant Master’s degree awarded within the previous 6 years
• Currently employed in Africa by a recognized university and/or specialist research institution
• No prior participation in equivalent proposal development/grant-writing training
• Actively involved in developing and conducting health research as part of your current employment role
• No significant portfolio of international research grants (Combined value of £250,000 or more)

Aim and Benefits of AREF Women in Research Essential Grant Writing Skills Programme:

Aim: The programme aims to empower talented early-career female health and health-related researchers to develop their own research and fellowship proposals of the quality necessary to secure competitive international, regional, and national funding.

The programme covers

• Developing and expressing your unique research niche
• Formulating a compelling research question
• Understanding funders’ requirements
• Writing in clear and concise language
• Crafting different sections of a proposal
• Key components of a typical Case for Support/Project Description
• Planning your proposed project and budget
• Principles of team management and collaboration
• Understanding and practicing peer review

Process:

Applications will be evaluated based on the following criteria

• Research experience, outputs, and achievements as an emerging researcher
• How the training will contribute to your personal vision for addressing key health challenges in Africa
• Plans to share the knowledge and skills gained from the programme
• Support from sponsors or mentors
• Sufficient English language proficiency for effective communication

Reviewers will shortlist programme participants based on their capacity to benefit from the training. Only applicants meeting the capacity criteria will be considered for the final selection.