Call for Applications: Epidemic Science Leadership and Innovation Networks (EPSILONs)
Investing in African epidemic and pandemic sciences research and preparedness is crucial for safeguarding national and regional healthcare systems and ensuring economic stability in Africa. The initiative aims to develop a robust epidemic and pandemic sciences sector by fostering collaboration across academia, industry, government, and policy organizations. This initiative also focuses on preparing a new generation of experts, including scientists, policymakers, and healthcare leaders in Africa. This effort will not only enhance health security and economic prosperity on the continent but also leverage African expertise to influence global priorities in epidemic and pandemic research, preparedness, and response.
EPSILONs: Call for a Vibrant Ecosystem
The call invites proposals to establish Epidemic Science Leadership and Innovation Networks (EPSILONs) across Africa. Each EPSILON will consist of three to eight organizations in a 'hub and spoke' consortium. The goal is to create networks of research excellence in thematic areas relevant to epidemic and pandemic sciences research, preparedness, and response.
These networks will play a crucial role in nurturing and promoting world-class research and innovation in epidemic and pandemic sciences in Africa. By building a critical mass of experts across all health sectors, these networks will address ongoing health challenges while enhancing capabilities to respond to future infectious disease threats.
Moreover, EPSILONs will contribute to the development of communities of practice that can be leveraged for long-term collaboration, especially during future outbreaks, to address urgent research and policy needs.
Eligibility Requirements
Lead applicants are limited to leading one application but may participate as co-applicants in several proposals. Lead applicants must be based at eligible organizations and meet specific conditions, including holding an academic or research post and having a salary for the award period.
Thematic Research Areas
The call seeks proposals in various thematic research areas, including:
1. Vaccinology/Early-stage Vaccine Research and Development
2. Virology – Genotype to Phenotype
3. Clinical Research and Clinical Trials on Epidemic and Pandemic-Prone Infections
4. Epidemic and Pandemic Public Health Policy Research
5. Climate Change, Biodiversity, and Pandemic Prevention
6. Advanced Data Assembly and Analytics for Threat Assessment and Mitigation
7. Social and Behavioral Sciences
This initiative represents a significant step toward building a resilient epidemic and pandemic sciences sector in Africa, strengthening collaboration, and addressing future health challenges on the continent.
How to Apply
For more information and job application details, see; Epidemic Science Leadership and Innovation Networks: Call for Applications
