The African Women in Science (AWIS) Program 2027 & 2028 is a prestigious initiative that offers early-career African women scientists a fully funded leadership and research opportunity to advance their careers in freshwater systems, aquatic ecosystems, fisheries, aquaculture, and related environmental research. With a deadline of May 08, 2026, interested applicants should start preparing their applications as soon as possible to avoid missing this life-changing opportunity. The AWIS Program is designed to empower African women scientists and provide them with the necessary tools, networks, and experiences to accelerate their careers and contribute to sustainable development in Africa.
About the Opportunity
The African Women in Science (AWIS) Program is an initiative of the African Center for Aquatic Research and Education (ACARE), a leading organization dedicated to promoting aquatic research and education in Africa. The program aims to address the underrepresentation of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, particularly in aquatic research, by providing early-career African women scientists with advanced scientific and leadership training, mentorship, and networking opportunities. By supporting the career development of African women scientists, the AWIS Program contributes to the achievement of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 14 (Life Below Water).
The AWIS Program is significant for Africans because it addresses the critical need for more women in STEM fields, particularly in aquatic research, where they are underrepresented. By empowering African women scientists, the program helps to promote gender equality, reduce the gender gap in STEM fields, and increase the participation of women in decision-making processes related to aquatic research and management. Furthermore, the program contributes to the development of a more diverse and inclusive aquatic research community in Africa, which is essential for addressing the complex environmental and sustainability challenges facing the continent.
The AWIS Program also provides a unique opportunity for early-career African women scientists to gain international exposure, access cutting-edge research facilities, and collaborate with leading researchers in their fields. By participating in the program, African women scientists can gain the skills, knowledge, and networks needed to become leaders in their fields and make significant contributions to sustainable development in Africa. The program’s focus on freshwater systems, aquatic ecosystems, fisheries, aquaculture, and related environmental research also aligns with the priorities of the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which emphasizes the importance of sustainable development, environmental protection, and the conservation of Africa’s natural resources.
Who Can Apply
To be eligible for the African Women in Science (AWIS) Program, applicants must meet certain criteria, which are outlined below:
- Be a citizen of an African country and reside in Africa
- Be an early-career woman scientist with a degree in a relevant field (e.g., biology, chemistry, ecology, environmental science, fisheries, aquaculture)
- Have a strong academic record and research experience in freshwater systems, aquatic ecosystems, fisheries, aquaculture, or related environmental research
- Be committed to a career in aquatic research and dedicated to making a positive impact in their community and beyond
- Be fluent in English, as the program will be conducted in English
- Be available to participate in the program for approximately 11 months, beginning in January/February and ending in December
What You Will Gain
By participating in the African Women in Science (AWIS) Program, early-career African women scientists can gain a wide range of benefits, including:
- Advanced scientific and leadership training from leading experts in aquatic research
- Mentorship from senior researchers and professionals in their field
- Access to professional networks across Africa and internationally, including opportunities to collaborate with leading researchers and organizations
- Career development opportunities, including training in research design, methodology, and communication
- Exposure to cutting-edge freshwater and aquatic research, including the latest technologies and techniques
- Opportunities to contribute to solutions for environmental and sustainability challenges facing Africa, including climate change, water pollution, and biodiversity conservation
- Possible international travel experience to the United States and Canada, including participation in conferences and workshops
- Conference participation and oral presentation opportunity at the International Association of Great Lakes Research (IAGLR) conference
Application Deadline
Do not miss this opportunity to advance your career as a woman scientist in Africa. The deadline for applications is May 08, 2026. Start your application early to ensure that you have enough time to complete all the requirements and submit your application before the deadline.
How to Apply for African Women in Science (AWIS) Program 2027 & 2028 for Early-Career African Women Scientists | Fully Funded Leadership & Research Opportunity
To apply for the AWIS Program, follow these steps: review the eligibility criteria and ensure that you meet all the requirements; gather all the necessary documents, including your CV, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation; complete the online application form, which includes providing personal and professional information, as well as answering questions about your research experience and career goals; and submit your application before the deadline. The application process is online, and all documents must be uploaded in the required format.
Apply directly here: Click here to apply
Final Thoughts
The African Women in Science (AWIS) Program is a unique opportunity for early-career African women scientists to advance their careers and make a positive impact in their communities. By providing advanced scientific and leadership training, mentorship, and networking opportunities, the program empowers women scientists to become leaders in their fields and contribute to sustainable development in Africa. If you are an early-career African woman scientist passionate about aquatic research and dedicated to making a difference, apply now for the AWIS Program and take the first step towards achieving your goals.
