ViGOR Research Fellowships 2026: Apply for Genomics and Outbreak Modeling Funding in Africa
Are you a researcher in Eastern or Central Africa passionate about tackling virus outbreaks? The ViGOR Research Fellowships 2026 offer a chance to build skills in virus genomics and outbreak modeling. This program supports early-career scientists to strengthen public health responses in the region.
What Are the ViGOR Research Fellowships?
The ViGOR Research Fellowships 2026 come from the Virus Genomics for Outbreak Response consortium. This group includes partners like the University of Warwick in the UK, KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme and 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. Funded by the NIHR Global Health Research Project, ViGOR works to improve access to genomics, bioinformatics, and outbreak modeling tools during virus threats. The fellowships help develop local experts who can lead research and responses to viral diseases in Central and East Africa.
Each fellowship lasts 9 to 12 months. Fellows complete a research project with clear public health impact in one of two key areas.
Types of Fellowships Available
ViGOR offers two fellowship tracks, with five spots in each.
Genomic Research Fellowships (GRF):
These focus on sequencing and bioinformatics. Fellows gain hands-on experience in virus genomics to support outbreak investigations.
Outbreak Modelling Fellowships (OMF):
These center on mathematical and epidemiological modeling. Fellows learn to predict and analyze outbreak patterns for better decision-making.
Both tracks build skills that directly aid public health labs and institutions in the region.
Funding Details
Successful applicants receive budget support for their projects.
- Outbreak Modelling Fellowships: Up to £10,000.
- Genomics Fellowships: Up to £15,000.
Fellows must submit a research project description and a justified budget with their application. The funding covers project costs, but institutions provide stipend or salary support during the fellowship period.
Who Can Apply? Eligibility Criteria
The program targets early-career researchers and public health workers. Key requirements include:
- A Master’s or PhD (up to 6 years post-PhD).
- Full-time affiliation or employment at a university, government/public health lab, or research institution in Eastern or Central Africa.
- Skills and experience suited to the proposed project in virus genomics or outbreak modeling.
Applicants should already work in relevant labs or departments.
What You Need for the Application
Prepare these documents:
- A 2-3 page research proposal with budget and justifications (use the provided template).
- CV (maximum 3 pages).
- Details on your home institute supervisor and why they fit the project.
- Academic certificates.
- Motivation statement explaining why you deserve the fellowship.
- Institutional support letter confirming stipend/salary availability for 9-12 months.
- Support letter from your immediate supervisor.
Make sure all materials are clear and complete.
How to Submit Your Application
Apply online through the official form. Visit the KEMRI-Wellcome jobs page for the ViGOR Research Fellowships query form. For full details, check the ViGOR Research Fellowships page.
Important Deadline
Submit your application by April 30, 2026. Start preparing now to meet this date and advance your career in outbreak response.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the ViGOR Research Fellowships?
They are 9-12 month programs for early-career researchers in Eastern and Central Africa to gain skills in virus genomics or outbreak modeling through hands-on projects.
Who is eligible to apply?
Early-career researchers with a Master’s or PhD (up to 6 years post-PhD) affiliated with universities or labs in the region, with relevant skills.
What funding is provided?
Up to £10,000 for Outbreak Modelling Fellowships and £15,000 for Genomics Fellowships to cover project costs; stipends come from your institution.
When is the application deadline?
Submit by April 30, 2026, via the online form on the KEMRI-Wellcome jobs page.