African STARS Fellowship Program for ATT and YPP 2026 (Fully Funded Opportunity)

2026 African STARS Fellowship Programme Applications are now Open 

The Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI) at Stellenbosch University in South Africa and Center for Africa’s Resilience to Epidemics (CARE) at the Institut Pasteur de Dakar (IPD) in Senegal are pleased to announce the next call for applications for the African STARS Fellowship Programme. This prestigious initiative, supported by the Mastercard Foundation, aims to develop the next generation of African leaders in genomics, diagnostic.

Programme Overview

Africa has the fastest-growing young population in the world, with a workforce expected to exceed one billion in the coming decades. At the same time, the continent faces a disproportionate burden of infectious disease outbreaks, highlighting the urgent need for a highly skilled workforce in epidemic preparedness and response.

The African STARS Fellowship Programme aims to develop the next generation of African leaders in genomics, diagnostics, vaccine design, and biotechnology innovation. Fellows will gain advanced technical expertise, leadership skills, and career development opportunities in cutting-edge fields essential for strengthening Africa’s health sector.

African STARS Fellowship Programme is in Two Tracks

Advanced and Translational Training (ATT) Fellowship – 4 months

• Intensive training in advanced genomics for public health, genomic diagnostic design, and/or vaccine manufacturing.
• Designed for early-career scientists and professionals seeking specialized technical training.
• Includes leadership development in grants and financial management, team management, and strategic leadership.

Young Professional Programme (YPP) Fellowship – 12 months

• Focus on biotechnology innovation and entrepreneurship, including placements at commercial companies, industry, or innovation hubs.
• Training in critical thinking, problem-solving, writing, grantsmanship, effective communication, and project management.
• Designed for young scientists and entrepreneurs aiming to bridge the gap between research and industry.

 

• Table of Content
• About Stellenbosch University
• African STARS Fellowship Program for ATT and YPP
• Aim and Benefits of African STARS Fellowship Program for ATT and YPP
• Requirements for African STARS Fellowship Program for ATT and YPP Qualification
• Application Deadline
• How to Apply

About Stellenbosch University

Stellenbosch University (SU) is home to an academic community of 29 000 students (including 4 000 foreign students from 100 countries) as well as 3 000 permanent staff members (including 1 000 academics) on five campuses. ?The historical oak-lined university town amongst the Boland Mountains in the winelands of the Western Cape creates a unique campus atmosphere, which attracts local and foreign students alike. On the main campus, paved walkways wind between campus buildings – some dating from previous centuries; others just a few years old. Architecture from various eras attests to the soun... continue reading

African STARS Fellowship Program for ATT and YPP

Application Deadline	31 Jan 2026
Type	Fellowship
Sponsor	Stellenbosch University
Gender	Men and Women

Aim and Benefits of African STARS Fellowship Program for ATT and YPP

• Fully funded training, including travel, visa support, and accommodation
• Monthly stipend to cover living expenses
• Mentorship and career development support
• Placement opportunities at leading research institutes, biotechnology hubs, and industry partners
• Access to an extensive African STARS Alumni Network for continued collaboration and professional growth

Requirements for African STARS Fellowship Program for ATT and YPP Qualification

• Born in and/or living in Africa
• 35 years old or younger
• Relevant postgraduate qualification (minimum Master’s degree, PhD advantageous)
• ATT Track: Minimum 3 years of research, innovation, or industry experience
• YPP Track: Minimum 5 years experience in research management, innovation, or commercialization; prior experience in biotech startups, innovation hubs, or translational research advantageous
• Demonstrated excellence in genomics, diagnostics, biotechnology, or vaccine development
• Strong leadership potential and commitment to advancing scientific capacity in Africa
• Willingness to remain in Africa to contribute to local scientific, business, and public health initiatives
• Fluency in English or French (proficiency in both is an advantage)
• Women are strongly encouraged to apply

Check also:
Tony Elumelu Foundation African Entrepreneurship Programme 2026

Application Deadline

January 31, 2026

How to Apply

• Completed application form:
  • ATT Track: Apply here
  • YPP Track: Apply here
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) – Download template
• At least one letter of recommendation from academic or professional referees

For more information, visit www.starsfellows.africa/faqs_programe/ 

If the FAQs are not of any help, email Maambele Khosa [email protected].

For more details, visit African STARS MSc Fellowship webpage