The International AIDS Society (IAS) has opened applications for the CIPHER Research Grant Programme 2026/2027, an opportunity designed to support early-stage investigators conducting research on paediatric and adolescent HIV in countries with limited resources for HIV research. The programme provides up to USD 140,000 over two years to successful investigators. Beyond financial support, the grant is intended to strengthen researchers’ experience and capacity, helping them build competitive research profiles and prepare for larger funding opportunities. Researchers working on HIV prevention, vertical transmission, adolescent and young people’s HIV prevention, cardiometabolic conditions, hepatitis, tuberculosis and other priority areas are encouraged to assess their eligibility and prepare their applications before the deadline. About the CIPHER Research Grant Programme The CIPHER Research Grant Programme is focused on addressing important evidence gaps affecting children and adolescents living with or at risk of HIV, particularly in settings where research resources remain limited. The 2026/2027 programme is particularly relevant to early-stage investigators who need an opportunity to develop their research experience, generate evidence and establish a stronger foundation for pursuing larger research grants. Successful applicants can receive up to USD 140,000 for a two-year research project. The programme therefore offers both financial resources and an important pathway for developing research expertise in paediatric and adolescent HIV. Priority Research Areas The 2026/2027 funding round has a defined thematic focus covering HIV prevention and HIV-related co-morbidities among children and adolescents. Within HIV prevention, particular priority will be given to research addressing: • Prevention of vertical transmission of HIV• HIV prevention among adolescents and young people The programme will also support research into important co-morbidities, with particular emphasis on: • Cardiometabolic conditions• Hepatitis and other key co-infections• Tuberculosis Applicants should ensure that their proposed research aligns closely with these priority areas because applications must adhere to the requirements established for the current funding round. Who Should Apply? The programme is intended for early-stage investigators seeking to strengthen their research experience and establish a track record that can support future applications for larger research funding opportunities. Because the eligibility requirements are specific to the CIPHER call, prospective applicants should carefully review the official Call for Letter of Intent and Frequently Asked Questions before submitting an application. Applicants should also prepare the required supporting documentation in advance. This includes a scanned copy of their terminal research degree, a letter of support from their institution and a letter of commitment from their mentor. Application Requirements Applicants must first submit a Letter of Intent (LOI) through the designated online application platform. Key submission requirements include: • Complete the official Letter of Intent submission form.• Submit the application electronically through the designated online system.• Applications submitted outside the online platform will not be accepted.• Submit the application in English or French.• Upload a scanned copy of the applicant’s terminal research degree.• Provide a letter of support from the applicant’s institution.• Provide a letter of commitment from the applicant’s mentor. Applicants can save their progress while completing the online form and return later to make updates. Once the application is complete, it must be saved and formally submitted using the submission button on the final page. Only Letters of Intent that fully meet the stated requirements will be considered eligible. Deadline and Selection Process The deadline for submitting Letters of Intent is 30 September 2026 at 18:00 CEST. After submission, eligible Letters of Intent will be reviewed by the CIPHER Research Grant Working Group. Applicants who progress to the next stage are expected to be notified in November 2026. Shortlisted investigators will then be invited to submit a full research proposal. Detailed instructions and additional information concerning the full proposal stage will be provided to shortlisted candidates when they receive their notification. Why This Grant Matters For early-stage researchers working in resource-limited settings, access to competitive research funding can be critical for building independent research capacity. The CIPHER programme provides an opportunity to generate evidence addressing major HIV-related challenges affecting children, adolescents and young people. The combination of substantial two-year funding and an emphasis on developing investigators’ experience makes the programme particularly valuable for researchers seeking to establish themselves within the HIV research field. Applicants should therefore begin preparing their research concept, supporting documentation and institutional and mentor commitments well before the deadline. How to Apply Interested researchers should carefully read the official CIPHER Call for Letter of Intent and FAQs before completing the online submission form. All applications must be submitted through the designated electronic platform, and applicants should ensure that every required supporting document is included. The CIPHER Research Grant Programme 2026/2027 offers up to USD 140,000 over two years, with the application deadline set for 30 September 2026 at 18:00 CEST. Researchers interested in advancing evidence-based approaches to paediatric and adolescent HIV are encouraged to review the full requirements and submit their Letters of Intent before the closing date. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) does not take ownership or credit for the opportunities shared on this platform. All opportunities are sourced from official announcements and external sources for informational purposes only. Applicants are encouraged to verify all details, deadlines, and eligibility requirements from the official source before applying. Opportunities may be updated or changed by the providing organisations.