Deadline: 30-Nov-2025
The Women for Africa Foundation is pleased to announce its 11th edition of the Science by Women program to promote African women leadership in scientific research and technology.
The Science by Women program offers a 6-month post-doctoral fellowship in collaboration with recognized Spanish Centers of Excellence, addressing key challenges faced by Africa in areas such as health, agriculture, food security, water, mathematics, astronomy, energy, and climate change.
The Science by Women fellowship is designed to empower African women scientists by providing them with the opportunity to conduct advanced research in top-tier Spanish institutions. The program emphasizes scientific excellence, innovation, and the development of research that contributes to Africa’s progress. It encourages participants to produce work that has measurable social or economic impact, supporting advancements that can be transformed into products, patents, services, or public policies.
The fellowship provides a monthly living allowance of 1,976 euros net, round-trip airfare of up to 1,800 euros, and reimbursement for visa-related expenses up to 400 euros. Participants may also receive financial assistance to attend seminars or conferences during their stay.
Eligible applicants must be women of African nationality and residency, hold a PhD in a relevant scientific field, and have an active contractual relationship with a university or research organization in Africa. They are allowed to apply to only one fellowship per person, but each application can include up to two preferences of host institutions. The program requires an advanced level of English for communication, while knowledge of Spanish, though not mandatory, is considered an added advantage.
Selected candidates are expected to focus exclusively on their research work for six continuous months, beginning between January 2026 and June 2027. They must also arrange accommodation at least two months before arrival, maintain communication with the host institution, and comply with all ethical and professional standards.
The selection process evaluates the applicant’s research career, project quality, potential impact, and alignment with the host institution’s research themes. Successful candidates are expected to demonstrate innovation, relevance to Africa’s needs, and potential for practical or commercial application.
Applicants are required to submit several key documents including a valid passport or national ID, a CV, a motivation letter, a letter of recommendation, certified PhD diploma, and a tailored three-page research proposal for each chosen host institution.
Fellows are required to submit progress and final reports, participate in program evaluations, and allow the Foundation to publish non-confidential materials related to their research experience.
The deadline for applications is 30 November 2025.
For more information, visit Women for Africa Foundation.