MASTERS STUDENT (5)

General Summary

1. About O.R. TAMBO AFRICA RESEARCH CHAIR INITIATIVE 

The Strengthening Neuro-Infectious Disease Research Capacity at Makerere University through Tiered Mentorship and Institutional Collaboration project funded through the O.R. TAMBO AFRICA RESEARCH CHAIR INITIATIVE (ORTARCHI) at the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI), Makerere University, invites applications for fully-funded training scholarships in infectious and neurological diseases research for academic year 2026/2027.

2. Program Overview

This training program is a collaborative between Makerere University, Mbarara University of Science & Technology (MUST), University of Minnesota (USA) and Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA). The program provides multidisciplinary research training in Immunology, Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Pharmacology and Quality Improvement. Trainees will conduct research using existing neuro-infectious disease platforms or other related areas, under expert mentorship. Additionally, the program aims to establish an Infectious Disease Fellowship within the Department of Medicine at Makerere University. This will contribute to building a local and regional workforce of infectious disease specialists.

3. Background

Infectious and neglected tropical diseases remain a leading cause of death in Africa. Neuro-infections such as meningitis, encephalitis, and meningoencephalitis account for a large portion of neurological disease burden especially among immunocompromised individuals, including those living with HIV/AIDS.

In Sub-Saharan Africa:

  • Cryptococcal meningitis causes 15–19% of AIDS-related deaths.
  • TB meningitis is the deadliest form of TB.
  • CNS infections account for 12% of medical admissions in Uganda's national referral hospital, yet most etiologies remain undiagnosed.

Despite the magnitude of this problem, neuro-infections remain under-researched and under-diagnosed, leading to delayed treatment and preventable deaths.

4. Program Goal

The program aims to train and retain a new generation of African physician-scientists who will contribute to human and institutional capacity development in prevention, treatment, and research of infectious diseases. It targets highly motivated individuals committed to advancing careers in infectious diseases, with a specific focus on infectious and neurological diseases.

5. Position: MMed Scholar (5 vacancies at MakCHS and MUST)

  • 1 Position MMed Paediatrics at MakCHS
  • 2 Positions at MMed Internal Medicine at MakCHS
  • 2 Positions at MMed Internal at Mbarara University (MUST)

Eligibility:

  • Currently enrolled in second year of the MMed Internal Medicine or Paediatrics programs at Makerere or MMed Internal Medicine at MUST
  • Commitment to completing the program full-time

Key Responsibilities

Fellow Expectations

  1. At least 1 publication in a peer-reviewed journal
  2. Submission of the MMed Thesis for final vica voce examination
  3. Submit quarterly reports to the supervisor
  4. Disseminate project updates and findings at ORTACHI research meetings, the IDI Research Forum, and national and international conferences.
  5. Attend IDI research forums and to interact with the other IDI scholars                                                                                         

Benefits for Successful Candidates:

  • Fully-funded research career development workshops, training and mentorship
  • Research funding (equipment, materials, supplies, and data collection)
  • Support for publishing manuscripts and presenting at scientific meetings
  • Opportunities to attend international conferences and courses
  • Exposure to grant writing, research management, and translational science

Application Process

Highly motivated individuals, capable of self-directed study and planning a career in infectious and neurological diseases are invited to apply for this scholarship at IDI if they:

  • Have a demonstrable interest in research, writing, and publication
  • Wish to develop particular expertise in infectious and and neurological diseases research through the following areas: Immunology, Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Pharmacology and Quality Improvement
  • Demonstrated interest in infectious and neurological disease research, through prior research participation and/or publications.
  • Ability to define a clear area of interest within infectious and neurological diseases research and strong research question
  • Possess a basic understanding of global/ national infectious and neurological diseases research epidemiology and statistics
  • Commitment towards developing a strong academic career and leadership within infectious and neurological diseases research
  • Motivated, independent, strong teamwork and communication skillStrong English language proficiency, both spoken and written (as demonstrated in writing sample

How to apply

Applicants must submit the following documents through the official IDI Recruitment Portal:

  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • One-page research abstract focused on infectious and neurological diseases topic. The abstract should include:
    • Specific aims of the proposed project
    • Brief background of the area of study
    • Research methods to be used
    • Justification for the study
    • How this study aligns with Uganda Vision 2040? and
    • A proposed budget
  • Personal statement explaining your motivation for applying to this program
  • Two (2) letters of reference (Academic/professional)
  • Copies of academic transcripts
  • Contact information, including a mobile phone number and email address
  • Application Deadline: 8th November 2026

Incomplete applications or those submitted after the deadline will not be considered. 

Key Notes: 

  1. IDI is an equal opportunity employer and does not charge a recruitment fee or any other fees at any stage of the recruitment process
  2. Make sure that your application letter, CV and certificates are attached as one document
  3. Indicate the subject line of your email as stipulated in the advert
  4. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted 
  5. Any form of canvassing will lead to automatic disqualification.

Academic Qualifications

  • Currently enrolled in second year of the MMed Internal Medicine or Paediatrics programs at Makerere University or MMed Internal Medicine at MUST

Person Specification

  • Commitment to completing the program full-time at Makerere University, College of Health Sciences or Mbarara University of Science and Technology


More Details
MSOR005
5
Makerere University, College of Health Sciences and Mbarara University of Science and Technology
Full-time
1 Years
HEAD OF DEPARTMENT- RESEARCH
2026-10-22 09:30:12.000







HEAD OF DEPARTMENT- RESEARCH


Other Jobs

1. About O.R. TAMBO AFRICA RESEARCH CHAIR INITIATIVE 

The Strengthening Neuro-Infectious Disease Research Capacity at Makerere University through Tiered Mentorship and Institutional Collaboration project funded through the O.R. TAMBO AFRICA RESEARCH CHAIR INITIATIVE (ORTARCHI) at the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI), Makerere University, invites applications for fully-funded training scholarships in infectious and neurological diseases research for academic year 2026/2027.

2. Program Overview

This training program is a collaborative between Makerere University, Mbarara University of Science & Technology (MUST), University of Minnesota (USA) and Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA). The program provides multidisciplinary research training in Immunology, Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Pharmacology and Quality Improvement. Trainees will conduct research using existing neuro-infectious disease platforms or other related areas, under expert mentorship. Additionally, the program aims to establish an Infectious Disease Fellowship within the Department of Medicine at Makerere University. This will contribute to building a local and regional workforce of infectious disease specialists.

3. Background

Infectious and neglected tropical diseases remain a leading cause of death in Africa. Neuro-infections such as meningitis, encephalitis, and meningoencephalitis account for a large portion of neurological disease burden especially among immunocompromised individuals, including those living with HIV/AIDS.

In Sub-Saharan Africa:

  • Cryptococcal meningitis causes 15–19% of AIDS-related deaths.
  • TB meningitis is the deadliest form of TB.
  • CNS infections account for 12% of medical admissions in Uganda's national referral hospital, yet most etiologies remain undiagnosed.

Despite the magnitude of this problem, neuro-infections remain under-researched and under-diagnosed, leading to delayed treatment and preventable deaths.

4. Program Goal

The program aims to train and retain a new generation of African physician-scientists who will contribute to human and institutional capacity development in prevention, treatment, and research of infectious diseases. It targets highly motivated individuals committed to advancing careers in infectious diseases, with a specific focus on infectious and neurological diseases.

5. Position: MMed Scholar (5 vacancies at MakCHS and MUST)

  • 1 Position MMed Paediatrics at MakCHS
  • 2 Positions at MMed Internal Medicine at MakCHS
  • 2 Positions at MMed Internal at Mbarara University (MUST)

Eligibility:

  • Currently enrolled in second year of the MMed Internal Medicine or Paediatrics programs at Makerere or MMed Internal Medicine at MUST
  • Commitment to completing the program full-time

1. About O.R. TAMBO AFRICA RESEARCH CHAIR INITIATIVE 

The Strengthening Neuro-Infectious Disease Research Capacity at Makerere University through Tiered Mentorship and Institutional Collaboration project funded through the O.R. TAMBO AFRICA RESEARCH CHAIR INITIATIVE (ORTARCHI) at the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI), Makerere University, invites applications for fully-funded training scholarships in infectious and neurological diseases research for academic year 2026/2027

2. Program Overview

This training program is a collaborative between Makerere University, Mbarara University of Science & Technology (MUST), University of Minnesota (USA) and Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA). The program provides multidisciplinary research training in Immunology, Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Pharmacology and Quality Improvement. Trainees will conduct research using existing neuro-infectious disease platforms or other related areas, under expert mentorship. Additionally, the program aims to establish an Infectious Disease Fellowship within the Department of Medicine at Makerere University. This will contribute to building a local and regional workforce of infectious disease specialists.

3. Background

Infectious and neglected tropical diseases remain a leading cause of death in Africa. Neuro-infections such as meningitis, encephalitis, and meningoencephalitis account for a large portion of neurological disease burden especially among immunocompromised individuals, including those living with HIV/AIDS.

In Sub-Saharan Africa:

  • Cryptococcal meningitis causes 15–19% of AIDS-related deaths.
  • TB meningitis is the deadliest form of TB.
  • CNS infections account for 12% of medical admissions in Uganda's national referral hospital, yet most etiologies remain undiagnosed.

Despite the magnitude of this problem, neuro-infections remain under-researched and under-diagnosed, leading to delayed treatment and preventable deaths.

4. Program Goal

The program aims to train and retain a new generation of African physician-scientists who will contribute to human and institutional capacity development in prevention, treatment, and research of infectious diseases. It targets highly motivated individuals committed to advancing careers in infectious diseases, with a specific focus on infectious and neurological diseases.

5. Position: PhD Fellowship at Makerere University (1 Position – Department of Internal Medicine – MakCHS)

Eligibility:

  • Completed MMed program
  • Commitment to fellowship training over 1-2 years.

1. About O.R. TAMBO AFRICA RESEARCH CHAIR INITIATIVE 

The Strengthening Neuro-Infectious Disease Research Capacity at Makerere University through Tiered Mentorship and Institutional Collaboration project funded through the O.R. TAMBO AFRICA RESEARCH CHAIR INITIATIVE (ORTARCHI) at the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI), Makerere University, invites applications for fully-funded training scholarships in infectious and neurological diseases research for academic year 2026/2027

2. Program Overview

This training program is a collaborative between Makerere University, Mbarara University of Science & Technology (MUST), University of Minnesota (USA) and Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA). The program provides multidisciplinary research training in Immunology, Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Pharmacology and Quality Improvement. Trainees will conduct research using existing neuro-infectious disease platforms or other related areas, under expert mentorship. Additionally, the program aims to establish an Infectious Disease Fellowship within the Department of Medicine at Makerere University. This will contribute to building a local and regional workforce of infectious disease specialists.

3. Background

Infectious and neglected tropical diseases remain a leading cause of death in Africa. Neuro-infections such as meningitis, encephalitis, and meningoencephalitis account for a large portion of neurological disease burden especially among immunocompromised individuals, including those living with HIV/AIDS.

In Sub-Saharan Africa:

  • Cryptococcal meningitis causes 15–19% of AIDS-related deaths.
  • TB meningitis is the deadliest form of TB.
  • CNS infections account for 12% of medical admissions in Uganda's national referral hospital, yet most etiologies remain undiagnosed.

Despite the magnitude of this problem, neuro-infections remain under-researched and under-diagnosed, leading to delayed treatment and preventable deaths.

4. Program Goal

The program aims to train and retain a new generation of African physician-scientists who will contribute to human and institutional capacity development in prevention, treatment, and research of infectious diseases. It targets highly motivated individuals committed to advancing careers in infectious diseases, with a specific focus on infectious and neurological diseases.

5. Position: Post-MMed Fellowship, MakCHS (1 Vacancy)

Eligibility:

  • Completed MMed program
  • Commitment to fellowship training over 1-2 years.

1. About IDM-Africa

Sub-Saharan Africa needs more local infectious-disease modellers to generate evidence for outbreaks, antimicrobial resistance and other public-health priorities. IDM-Africa is a Strategic Training Hub that will build this capacity through Workshops for early- and mid-career researchers and one-year mentored Fellowships for advanced modellers. Fellows will develop locally relevant modelling projects and translate findings into scientific papers, policy briefs and practical recommendations. The programme combines hands-on learning, expert mentorship and sustained peer support to strengthen African modelling leadership and institutional capacity.

2. Fellowship Program Overview

IDM-Africa invites applications from early- and mid-career scientists in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) for its annual Fellowship Programme in infectious-disease modelling. The Fellowship supports scientists who already have foundational training and practical experience in infectious-disease modelling to develop an applied, policy-relevant modelling project using their own data. Fellows will receive structured mentorship from leading modellers, infectious-disease experts and policy specialists at partner institutions. The partner sites are The Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI) at Makerere University; University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako (USTTB) and Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC) with their corresponding training sites being The African Center of Excellence in Bioinformatics and Data-Intensive Sciences, Kampala-Uganda (ACE-Uganda); The African Center of Excellence in Bioinformatics and Data-Intensive Sciences, Bamako-Mali (ACE-B); and The Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development (AIGHD).

3. Fellowship Structure

Each Fellowship runs for 12 months:

  • One month of in-person placement at the selected host institution (ACE-Uganda or ACE-B), with intensive mentor-guided project development.
  • Eleven months of online mentorship, including at least one mentor-mentee session every two weeks, peer-learning activities, monthly progress reporting, and quarterly review meetings.

Fellows should be able to commit 100% FTE for month 1 and approximately 4 hours a day (50% FTE) to Fellowship activities during the online mentorship period.

During the Fellowship, participants will refine their research question; prepare and analyse data; develop, test and interpret infectious-disease models; strengthen reproducible research practice; receive code and data-review support; develop scientific-writing and policy-communication skills; and engage with public-health stakeholders where relevant.

For this round, we are recruiting three (3) fellows as follows:

  • Two (2) Positions at IDI / ACE-Uganda (Open to candidates who are fluent in English, including those from non-Anglophone SSA countries)
  • One (1) Position at ACE-Mali / USTTB (Open to candidates who are fluent in French, including those from non-Francophone SSA countries)