9:00am - 6:00pm [EAT]
The HIV Vaccine Science Academy supports early- and mid-career investigators conducting HIV vaccine research in Africa by providing opportunities for training, networking and mentorship. The academy is designed to equip the participants in establishing themselves as independent researchers and team leaders in their host institutions. This contributes to long-term continuity, networking and research ownership in central, eastern, southern and western Africa in the effort to develop a safe and effective HIV vaccine.
The sixth edition of the HIV Vaccine Science Academy will welcome 15 fellows and will be held in person over four days.
The academy will provide participants with the space to interact with leading researchers and experts in the HIV vaccine R&D field. It will use a participative approach to deliver interactive classroom sessions on key topics related to HIV vaccine research and development. Alongside its core vaccine science curriculum, the programme will include sessions relevant to HIV cure research, reflecting the ongoing convergence of the vaccine and cure fields.
The deadline for applications is 20 September 2026, 23:59 CEST.
The objectives are to:
- Provide training on state-of-the-art HIV vaccine research and development, notably vaccine design and the use of relevant scientific tools and skills (such as scientific writing), alongside sessions relevant to HIV cure research, reflecting the ongoing convergence of the two fields.
- Provide a unique opportunity to engage with leaders in the HIV vaccine field, in a retreat-type setting, to build and facilitate collaborations in the search for an HIV vaccine.
- Support participants in establishing a sustainable network across research institutions and creating momentum for African-led research.
To be eligible, applicants should:
- Be proficient in English
- Be a national of the African continent
- Be a resident of a central, eastern, southern or western African country
- Be affiliated with a central, eastern, southern or western African institution
- Have a letter of support from their home organization
- Be an early- to mid-career HIV vaccine researcher
Application deadline: 20 September 2026, 23:59 CEST
Find out more about our academies here.
Please contact hiv.vaccine@iasociety.org if you have any questions.