2015 Royal Society-DFID Africa Capacity Building Initiative for Scientists

The overall aim of the scheme is to strengthen the research capacity of universities and research institution in sub-Saharan Africa by supporting the development of sustainable research networks.

The scheme provides funding towards research expenses, travel and subsistence costs, (PhD) training, and limited funds for equipment.

The scheme is funded by the UK’s Department for International Development.

Basic eligibility requirements

Applicants must be based in one of the eligible sub-Saharan African countries (PDF) or the UK. In order to act as a principal investigator (PI), applicants must:

• have a PhD or have extensive research experience at an equivalent level
• have a proven track record of training students at Master’s and Doctoral level
• have a proven track record of publishing in both national and international journals
• be based in the respective countries at the time of the application

Applications will be accepted in three research priority areas:

• Water & sanitation
• Renewable energy
• Soil-related research

Value and tenure

Programme Grants will provide support for Research Consortia, consisting of three African groups and one UK-based laboratory.

Applicants do not need to have held a Scientific Networking award to apply for a Programme Grant.

The Programme Grant may provide support of up to £1,243,000 over a five year period, including:

Expense	Budget per partner	Total Budget
A PhD studentship for each of the African PI’s	£60,000/studentship	£180,000
Research costs	Up to £20,000 per year for each research group	£400,000.
Exchanges of researchers	Costs for travel and subsistence of up to £10,000 per year for each laboratory	£200,000.
Equipment purchasing, repair and maintenance	Up to £10,000 per year for each African laboratory	£150,000
Additional training modules (workshops and seminars)	Up to £10,000 per year for each PI	£200,000
Co-ordination and management costs	10% of value of the grant	£113,000
Total Budget		£1,243,000

Application process

Applications to the Programme grants will be initially reviewed by three members of the Royal Society-DFID Africa Capacity Strengthening Initiative panel. Applications that are shortlisted will be independently peer reviewed and discussed at a panel meeting.

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the Royal Society-DFID Africa Capacity Building Initiative