The Women for Africa Foundation (Fundación Mujeres por África) has officially opened applications for the 11th Edition of the Science by Women Fellowship Program, one of its flagship initiatives promoting African women’s leadership in scientific research, innovation, and technology transfer. The program seeks to empower women scientists across the African continent to address some of Africa’s most pressing challenges, from public health and agriculture to renewable energy, water management, climate change, and technological innovation. Since its creation, Science by Women has become a cornerstone initiative for advancing gender equity in science and research. To date, more than 170 African women scientists have participated in the program, collaborating with 33 Spanish research institutions of international excellence. Program Overview and Vision The Science by Women program reflects the Foundation’s commitment to harnessing Africa’s scientific potential by empowering its women researchers. It is rooted in the belief that the continent’s transition toward a knowledge- and innovation-based economy depends on strengthening women’s participation in science and technology. The 11th Edition offers 17 fellowships in collaboration with 15 top Spanish research centers, supported by more than 50 partner organizations, including Spain’s CSIC, the Government of the Canary Islands, the Provincial Councils of Bizkaia and Gipuzkoa, and foundations such as Abertis, Fisabio, and FUHNPAIN. These partnerships ensure that fellows are placed in institutions recognized for their excellence and commitment to advancing global scientific collaboration. Fellowship Details and Duration Each fellowship consists of a six-month postdoctoral research stay in Spain. The period of engagement may vary depending on the host institution but generally must be completed within 18 months from January 2026. The program is designed to provide an enabling environment for advanced research while fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange between African researchers and Spanish institutions. Fellows are expected to dedicate themselves fully to research during their stay and may not hold any concurrent fellowship or paid position. Benefits and Financial Support Successful applicants will receive a comprehensive package of support designed to facilitate both their professional and personal experience in Spain. The fellowship includes: A monthly living allowance of €2,600 gross (approximately €1,976 net after tax deductions). Round-trip airfare from the fellow’s home country to Spain, up to €1,800. Visa and administrative cost reimbursement of up to €400 upon submission of valid receipts. Possible financial assistance to attend conferences, workshops, or seminars during the fellowship period. Participation in academic and professional networking events organized by the host institution and the Foundation. Inclusion in the N.O.W. is Africa Network, a platform fostering long-term collaboration, mentorship, and career opportunities among past and current fellows. All selected fellows are responsible for securing their accommodation at least two months before arrival in Spain, although some host institutions may offer limited housing assistance. Eligibility and Application Requirements The program is open exclusively to African women scientists who hold a Ph.D. and demonstrate outstanding research potential in relevant disciplines. Applicants must present innovative projects that address challenges faced by African societies and are capable of generating measurable social or economic impact through new technologies, public policies, or sustainable business models. To apply, candidates must submit: A valid passport and national ID. A curriculum vitae. A 3-page tailored research proposal for each chosen host institution (applicants may select up to two institutions). A motivation letter. A recommendation letter. A certified Ph.D. diploma (translated into English). An English language certificate (recommended but not compulsory). A profile photo. All documents must be uploaded in English and adhere to the format and file size restrictions specified on the official application platform. Selection Process and Evaluation Criteria Applications will undergo a two-stage selection process. First, the Women for Africa Foundation will review submissions to ensure compliance with eligibility requirements. Qualified applications will then be forwarded to the Spanish host institutions for a rigorous scientific evaluation. Selection is based on the following criteria: Academic record and research trajectory. Relevance of experience to the host institution’s research focus. Scientific and technical quality of the proposal. Innovation and feasibility of the project. Expected socio-economic impact and contribution to sustainable development. Ethical soundness and communication strategy for disseminating results. Finalists will be announced on December 23, 2025, and selected candidates will have 30 days to formally accept their fellowship. Research stays may begin from January 2026 onward. Fellows’ and Host Institutions’ Commitments Selected fellows are expected to maintain consistent communication with both the host institution and the Foundation, comply with all institutional regulations, and submit mid-term and final evaluation reports on their research outcomes. They must also authorize the Foundation and host institution to publish or disseminate findings from their research in academic or public platforms. The Women for Africa Foundation, in turn, provides administrative, logistical, and financial support for the fellowship’s duration. However, it bears no legal employment relationship with the fellows. Application Deadline and Contact Applications must be submitted online in English via the official Science by Women portal before November 30, 2025 (23:59 CET, Madrid time). For detailed guidelines, applicants are advised to review the application instructions and FAQ section before contacting the program team. Only inquiries not addressed in these sections should be sent to science.by.women@mujeresporafrica.es. Empowering Africa’s Women Scientists Through the Science by Women program, the Women for Africa Foundation continues to champion gender equality and innovation in science. By connecting African researchers with Spain’s leading scientific institutions, the initiative fosters knowledge exchange, cross-cultural collaboration, and the creation of solutions tailored to Africa’s development priorities. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the fellowship organization. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.