AfOx Research Alpha Industry (RAIN) Fellowship Programme 2026 for Mid-Career African Researchers
The AfOx–Research Alpha Industry (RAIN) Fellowship Programme 2026 is designed to support exceptional mid-career African researchers working on AI and emerging technologies relevant to Africa’s development. This fellowship combines academic engagement at the University of Oxford with research connected to industry challenges in Africa, particularly in the sectors of Energy, Agriculture, and Health.
Fellows will engage in a 12-month programme that includes a 2-month in-person residency at Oxford and ongoing virtual collaboration with Oxford-based scholars and industry partners. This opportunity aims to strengthen research that informs innovation and industry on the African continent.
Eligibility
Applicants must be mid-career African researchers, nationals of any African country, or have indefinite leave to remain in an African country. They should hold a position in an African university or research institution and be legally resident in the host country of their institution. Applicants must be of postdoctoral or equivalent status at the time of application.
Benefits
Fellows receive accommodation during the Oxford residency, access to University resources, a return economy flight ticket, airport transfer, visa fee support, and a maintenance allowance for incidental expenses during the residency, up to £250 per week.
