Young Africans Research Academy (YARA) Fellowship 2025: Call for Applications

This initiative is aimed at developing the next generation of indigenous researchers committed to solving Africa’s most pressing problems through high-quality, ethical, and relevant research.

For our first cohort, we are looking for 10 highly motivated undergraduate students from Ghana who are passionate about research and have a strong interest in pursuing a career in academia, research, or related fields. If you are an undergraduate student with a commitment to STEM research and a desire to make an impact, we encourage you to apply.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Must be a 3rd year undergraduate student in any STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) field of study.

• Must have strong academic credentials and a demonstrated interest in research.

• Must be committed to completing the fellowship, and producing a fully-fledged publishable research paper.

• Must aspire to pursue graduate-level studies (Master’s/PhD) and apply acquired research skills for career development.

Fellowship Benefits:

✔ One-on-one mentorship with top-tier researchers and academics.
✔ Hands-on training in research methods, ethics, and critical thinking.
✔ Access to summer research programs, networking, and career development opportunities.
✔ Collaboration with a community of like-minded African researchers.

Research Focus Areas

• Mathematics & Applied Mathematics: Pioneer open‑source, data‑driven optimization and post‑quantum cryptography models for robust digital security.
• Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning: Create explainable AI frameworks and edge computing solutions for ethical, real‑time decision making.
• Bioinformatics & Genomics: Integrate multi‑omics data with advanced algorithms to predict protein structures and drive precision medicine.
• Sustainable Building Technologies: Design digital twins and test smart materials to revolutionize urban planning and resilient infrastructure.
• Renewable Energy: Model hybrid renewable systems and optimize smart grid performance for a sustainable energy future.
• Public Health Innovation: Develop real‑time epidemic models and digital health solutions to enhance public health responses.
• AgriTech & Food Security: Engineer precision agriculture systems using sensors and AI to boost crop productivity and resource efficiency.
• Robotics & Automation: Build and simulate swarm robotics and human‑robot collaboration platforms for diverse industrial applications.
• Education Technology (EdTech): Innovate adaptive, AI‑driven tutoring systems and immersive learning environments to personalize education.
• Climate Science: Develop regional climate impact assessments with high‑resolution data to inform sustainable policy and adaptation.

Next Step After Application Submission:

Once your application is submitted, our selection committee will review it thoroughly. Shortlisted applicants will receive an email with further details regarding the next stage of the selection process. This may include an interview, additional assessments, or a research proposal submission.