Deadline: 20-Apr-2026
The Africa CDC Biomanufacturing Fellowship Programme provides a two-year comprehensive training and mentorship experience for professionals in vaccine biomanufacturing. Fellows gain theoretical knowledge, hands-on industry experience, leadership skills, and entrepreneurship training to strengthen Africa’s biomanufacturing workforce.
Programme Overview
The Africa CDC Biomanufacturing Fellowship Programme aims to expand biomanufacturing capacity across Africa by developing a skilled workforce in vaccine research, production, and management. The initiative addresses the urgent need for structured training pathways for professionals currently working in biomanufacturing companies.
Programme Focus Areas
The fellowship focuses on developing expertise in:
- Biomanufacturing Training: Specialized skills in vaccine research, production, and process development
- Leadership and Management: Strategic planning, enterprise management, and team leadership in biomanufacturing environments
- Mentorship and Entrepreneurship: Guidance for professional growth and fostering innovative thinking in biotechnology
- Hands-On Industry Experience: Practical exposure aligned with established competency frameworks to strengthen technical and operational capabilities
Purpose and Impact
The programme is designed to:
- Expand the pool of skilled vaccine manufacturing professionals in Africa
- Provide structured training pathways for working professionals
- Develop leaders capable of driving self-sustaining biomanufacturing ecosystems
- Strengthen Africa’s capacity to produce vaccines locally and respond to public health needs
Fellowship Details
- Duration: Two years combining theoretical and practical learning
- Specialisation: Participants can focus on specific technical or managerial areas while gaining broader expertise
- Funding Support:
- Daily subsistence allowance during training-related travel
- Return flights to training locations
- Travel and health insurance
- Visa costs
- Post-fellowship allowance
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Employment: Currently employed in an active biomanufacturing company
- Education:
- Master’s degree in pharmacy, pharmaceutical sciences, biotechnology, chemistry, biochemistry, or biochemical engineering, or
- Bachelor’s degree with over five years of relevant industry experience
- Citizenship: Must be a citizen of an African Union Member State
- Documentation: Valid passport required
- Availability: Able to participate in fellowship activities in designated countries
How to Apply
- Confirm Eligibility: Ensure current employment in a biomanufacturing company and meet educational requirements
- Prepare Application: Include CV, academic transcripts, proof of employment, and other required documents
- Submit Application: Follow the official Africa CDC application portal instructions before the deadline
- Selection: Shortlisted candidates may undergo interviews or additional assessment for fellowship placement
Tips for a Strong Application:
- Highlight professional experience and contributions to biomanufacturing
- Demonstrate leadership potential and commitment to the African biomanufacturing sector
- Include evidence of technical expertise and specialised skills in vaccine production
- Show readiness for international mobility and cross-country training
Why This Programme Matters
The Africa CDC Biomanufacturing Fellowship Programme strengthens the continent’s biomanufacturing ecosystem by:
- Building a highly skilled workforce in vaccine research and production
- Developing future leaders capable of managing biomanufacturing operations
- Providing structured, practical training for working professionals
- Supporting Africa’s self-sufficiency in vaccine manufacturing and public health preparedness
FAQ
1. Who can apply? Employees of active biomanufacturing companies in Africa with the required education and experience.
2. What is the fellowship duration? Two years combining theoretical and practical learning.
3. What funding support is provided? Travel, accommodation, insurance, visa costs, daily allowance, and post-fellowship support.
4. What qualifications are required? Master’s degree in relevant fields, or Bachelor’s degree plus 5+ years of industry experience.
5. Is international travel required? Yes, participants must attend training in designated countries.
6. Are only citizens of African Union Member States eligible? Yes, applicants must be AU citizens.
7. What are the main learning areas? Biomanufacturing, leadership, management, mentorship, entrepreneurship, and hands-on industry experience.
Conclusion
The Africa CDC Biomanufacturing Fellowship Programme is a transformative opportunity for vaccine manufacturing professionals to gain advanced training, develop leadership skills, and contribute to a self-sustaining biomanufacturing ecosystem across Africa. By combining theory, practical experience, and mentorship, the programme strengthens both individual careers and continental capacity in vaccine production.
For more information, visit Africa CDC.