Applications Open for the 11th Edition of the Science by Women Fellowship Program

The Women for Africa Foundation has announced the opening of applications for its flagship initiative, the Science by Women Fellowship Program. This 11th edition seeks to support and elevate the role of African women in scientific research, innovation, and technology transfer, addressing critical challenges faced by the continent.

Program Objective and Significance

The Science by Women program is dedicated to promoting gender equity in science and research. Since its inception, it has enabled over 170 female scientists from Africa to engage with 33 prestigious Spanish research institutions. This initiative is grounded in the belief that Africa’s future depends on harnessing its scientific potential and enhancing women’s participation in scientific and technological advancements.

Fellowship Overview

This edition offers 17 fellowships in collaboration with 15 esteemed Spanish research centers backed by more than 50 partners, including major organizations like CSIC and the Government of the Canary Islands. These partnerships guarantee that fellows gain access to renowned institutions committed to fostering global scientific cooperation.

Duration and Structure of the Fellowship

Fellowships provide a six-month postdoctoral research opportunity, typically to be completed within 18 months starting from January 2026. During this period, fellows are expected to immerse themselves in their research and are prohibited from engaging in any other concurrent fellowship or paid position.

Support and Financial Aid

Selected fellows will benefit from a robust support package that includes:

• A monthly living allowance of €2,600 gross (around €1,976 net after tax).
• Round-trip airfare to Spain, subsidized up to €1,800.
• Reimbursement of visa and administrative costs up to €400.
• Potential funding for attendance at conferences and workshops during the fellowship.
• Networking opportunities through events organized by both the host institution and the Foundation.
• Inclusion in the N.O.W. is Africa Network for ongoing collaboration and mentorship.

Fellows must arrange their accommodations in advance, although limited housing assistance may be available from some host institutions.

Eligibility Criteria and Application Process

This fellowship is open exclusively to African women holding a Ph.D. who can demonstrate exceptional research capabilities. Applicants are required to propose innovative projects aimed at resolving pertinent issues within African societies, with a clear potential for socio-economic impact.

Application materials include:

• A valid passport and national ID.
• A detailed curriculum vitae.
• A tailored three-page research proposal per chosen host institution (up to two institutions can be selected).
• A motivation letter.
• A recommendation letter.
• A certified Ph.D. diploma (translated into English).
• An English language certificate (optional).
• A profile photo.

All documents must be submitted in English and conform to specified guidelines on the application platform.

Evaluation and Selection Process

The application process comprises two stages: initial review by the Women for Africa Foundation for compliance, followed by a scientific assessment by the respective Spanish host institutions. Selection will be based on the following criteria:

• Academic records and research trajectory.
• Relevance of experience to the focus of the host institution.
• Scientific quality of the research proposal.
• Innovation and practical feasibility of the project.
• Expected socio-economic impact and contribution to sustainable development.
• Communication strategy for disseminating research findings.

Results will be announced on December 23, 2025, and selected fellows will have 30 days to accept their position, with research activities starting from January 2026.

Commitments of Participants

Fellows are required to maintain communication with the host institution and the Foundation, adhere to institutional regulations, and submit evaluation reports throughout their research tenure. They also grant permission for the publication of their research findings by the Foundation and host institution.

In return, the Women for Africa Foundation promises essential support, including administrative and financial assistance, though no formal employment relationship will be established with the fellows.

Important Dates and Contact Information

The application deadline is set for November 30, 2025, with submissions to be made online in English via the Science by Women portal.

For detailed application instructions, candidates are encouraged to consult the FAQ section. Queries not addressed therein can be directed to info@womenforafrica.org.

Empowering African Women in Science

The Science by Women program is a vital step towards achieving gender equality in science, linking African researchers with established Spanish institutions to promote knowledge sharing and innovation in alignment with Africa’s developmental goals.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the fellowship organization. For inquiries, please contact the Women for Africa Foundation directly.