Now accepting applications!

9th Annual East African Regional Workshop: Immunology of Parasitic Diseases

12 – 23 July 2010 in Morogoro, Tanzania

Sokoine University, Seattle Biomedical Research Institute and the National Institute for Medical Research are convening a special workshop on Immunology of Parasitic Diseases.  An international faculty will lead a two-week workshop to train young African scientists in basic and applied research on protozoan pathogens, including malaria parasites and trypanosomes.  The workshop will emphasize training young scientists in cutting edge concepts and laboratory techniques, and senior faculty will partner with trainees to develop research proposals.

Applications are due by 31 March, 2010

Selected students who reside in East Africa are sponsored to attend the workshop.  

Young scientists should go to http://www.seattlebiomed.org/event/africa-workshop-2010 for more information and application forms.

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Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute would like to announce a course on Bayesian Disease Mapping in Epidemiology and Public Health
Dates: 12 - 23 July 2010

The course is meant to be of interest for researchers dealing with spatial data in epidemiology and public health. For more details on the course check our website at http://www.swisstph.ch/teaching-and-training/bayesian-disease-mapping.

This course would be of interest for many researchers working in the field of malaria.

Contact Laura Gosoniu for more details

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The Oxford Vaccinology Programme

Posted: 18/11/2009

Download program details [pdf, 368 kb]

A series of three short courses for industry or academia professionals:

The courses will be taught by leading researchers from the University of Oxford and the Institute of Animal Health, complemented by distinguished guest speakers (please see attached programme for more details).

Human and Veterinary Vaccinology 9 - 13 November 2009
Veterinary and human vaccination in health; welfare and environmental protection; immune defence against disease; animal models in vaccinology; vaccine design and antigen selection; mucosal vaccines;cancer vaccines; bioengineering and novel vaccine delivery systems; and vaccine related pathogen diversity.

Clinical Vaccine Development 1 - 2 March 2010
Moving from pre-clinical research to vaccine development; testing vaccines in early phase trials; efficacy trials; and technical and regulatory challenges in vaccine development.

Vaccine Biomanufacturing 3 - 4 March 2010
The global vaccine market; challenges in vaccine manufacture; process development strategies; and case studies in vaccine development.

These courses are for:

* Research Scientists

* Programme Managers

* Clinical Trial Coordinators

* Physicians

* Veterinarians

* Those already working in the field & those seeking to enter it

We will provide state-of-the-art teaching in both veterinary and human vaccinology, drawing on the experience of the world-renowned Jenner Institute, based in Oxford. Uniquely, we will focus on diseases of both humans and livestock. A major theme will be translational research involving the rapid early-stage development and assessment of new vaccines in clinical trials.

For more details:

Web: www.conted.ox.ac.uk/vaccinology

Email: vaccinology@conted.ox.ac.uk

Phone: +44 (0)1865 286958

This programme is offered through a collaboration between the Jenner Institute and the Oxford University Department for Continuing Education.

Funding for course development is provided by the BBSRC through the Modular Training for Industry initiative.

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Africa London Nagasaki Scholoarship Fund

A new scholarship for African scientists

Click here to download [pdf, 259k]

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The Poverty Related Disease College - An International Programme on Biomedicine and Development

Call for Applications - An advanced Training in Biomedicine and Development

Download Call for Application [pdf, 132kb]

Download Application Form Sample Letter [word, 131kb]

Posted: 18 September, 2009

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Postdoctoral Position Malaria/Microbiology Units, Instituto de Medicina Molecular (IMM), Lisbon, Portugal. Download pdf for details [118kb]

posted: 14 September 2009

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UNIVERSITY OF GHANA
SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES


ADMISSION TO THE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN CLINICAL TRIALS PROGRAMME

The School of Public Health is inviting applications from qualified applicants for admission to its newly introduced Master of Science in Clinical Trials programme for the 2009/2010 Academic Year.

Entry Requirements
Applicants should have a good first degree in a relevant discipline from a recognised university, preferably with three (3) years relevant working experience. Candidates should have a background in Public Health.

Programme Duration
The programme will be full time for a period of 12 calendar months.

Cost of Application forms
The application forms cost Seventy-Five Ghana Cedis (GH¢ 75.00) for local Ghanaian applicants and Seventy-Five Dollars ($ 75.00) for foreign applicants. Forms could be obtained with a Banker’s Draft payable at the University of Ghana Cash Office, and the forms collected from the Office of the Assistant Registrar (HR & G), School of Public Health near the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon or on the UG website at www.ug.edu.gh.

Eligible applicants will be admitted into the programme subject to passing an Entrance Examination and an interview.

Completed application forms are to be submitted to the Office of the Executive Secretary School of Research and Graduate Studies, University of Ghana, Legon, not later than 20th July, 2009.

For further information, please contact:
The Assistant Registrar (HR & G)
School of Public Health
P.O.Box LG 13
University of Ghana
Legon

Telephone numbers:  021-946087/021-9460881/028-9109000/028-9109001
Email:    Ibofori-ayeh@ug.edu.gh / lucyoayeh2001@yahoo.co.uk
posted: July 13, 2009

Wellcome Trust Advanced Course on Genomic Epidemiology of Malaria
16-22 June 2009

Application deadline: 3 April 2009

This course will provide theoretical and practical training in concepts, methods and analyses that link high-throughput sequencing and genotyping technologies to applications in genomic epidemiology of malaria. Using real datasets, participants will be guided from handling data outputs of current genomic technologies through to analysis of genomic features and variation within and between natural populations. Application of these approaches and analyses to understanding population structure and identifying candidate loci of biological interest will also be discussed. The topics will be covered in a way that is relevant to researchers working in any of the malaria relevant genomes--parasite, vector, or host.

More course information and registration details can be found at: http://www.wellcome.ac.uk/Professional-resources/Courses-and-conferences/Advanced-Courses/Courses/WTX052258.htm

Bursaries
Limited bursaries are available for clinical and academic applicants (50 per cent of fee) and are subject to open competition

Contacts:
Scientific Programme information:
Dr. Bronwyn MacInnis (bm2@sanger.ac.uk)

Applications and Logistics:
Wellcome Trust Advanced Courses (advancedcourses@hinxton.wellcome.ac.uk)

http://www.wellcome.ac.uk/advancedcourses

UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA
TRANSLATIONAL RESEARCH IN MALARIA TRANSMISSION AND IMMUNITY

Postdoctoral and PhD Fellowships for African Scientists—Epidemiology and Biostatistics

As part of our ongoing research program examining malaria transmission and immunity in highland Kenya, the University of Minnesota, USA (UMN), in collaboration with the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Maseno University, Kenya, and Moi University, Kenya, and through a grant from the Fogarty International Center of US National Institutes of Health, is pleased to announce training opportunities for one Postdoctoral Fellow (Epidemiology) and two PhD Students (one each Epidemiology and Biostatistics).

Download complete details (pdf, 72k)
posted: March 06, 2009

ECTE 2009
28th European Course in Tropical Epidemiology
August 17th - September 4th 2009

Course brochure [pdf, 437k]

The MENTOR initiative
5 Day Workshops: Malaria Control in Humanitarian Crises

Course Outline [pdf, 472k]

Training Poster [pdf, 606k]

Application Form [word, 94k]

Contact Information:

The MENTOR Initiative
Email: training@mentor-intitiative.net
Phone: +33 468782796
website: www.thementorinitiative.org

Benjamin H. Kean Traveling Fellowship in Tropical Medicine

Who:
Medical students interested in tropical medicine

What:
Financial support for clinical and research electives in tropical medicine

When:
Application deadline: March 3, 2009

How:
Submit the materials listed below

Background
Dr. Benjamin H. Kean was a renowned teacher, researcher and practitioner of tropical medicine whose mentorship and support helped many medical students and physicians-in-training begin and sustain careers in tropical medicine. He believed that early hands-on experience in the tropics was the best way to stimulate such careers, and he was instrumental in helping many medical students obtain these experiences.

The American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene has established a fellowship in Dr. Kean's name, administered by the ASTMH Clinical Group (American Committee on Clinical Tropical Medicine and Traveler's Health - ACCTMTH), that will provide travel expenses for medical students who arrange clinical tropical medicine or tropical medicine research electives in areas afflicted by tropical diseases. Round-trip airfare (best-price ticketing) and up to $1000 toward living expenses will be provided. Kean Fellows will be required to prepare and present reports describing their activities.

Eligibility
Applicant must:

Be a full-time student in a North American accredited school of medicine at the time of the application and at the time of the elective.

Propose an elective in tropical medicine research or training in clinical tropical medicine, including at least one month at a site endemic for tropical communicable diseases, starting after June 1, 2009. The fellowship does not support electives in non-tropical areas or
participation in organized didactic courses.

Not have done previous electives/rotations in the same country. Prior travel to the country for vacations or other non-medical reasons is acceptable.

Preference will be given to:

• Applicants sponsored by a member of the ASTMH Clinical Group (American Committee on Clinical Tropical Medicine and Travelers' Health - ACCTMTH)
• Applicants proposing electives lasting longer than one month
• Applicants who have not had previous extensive overseas experience
• Applicants who propose to study tropical communicable diseases other than HIV/AIDS

Selection Criteria
Applicants will be selected by a committee based on their academic and/or research credentials, recommendations, quality of their proposal and the potential for the fellowship to increase the likelihood of a career in tropical medicine.

Benjamin H. Kean Fellowship Application Instructions:
Deadline for submission: March 3, 2009

Application Process and Requirements
Submit your application on line via link posted at http://www.astmh.org/funding/index.cfm beginning February 4, 2009.

Collect all application materials prior to submitting them to the online awards system. Although you will be able to edit your award submission prior to the March 3 deadline, the submission process will be much easier if you collect all application materials prior to submission.

Application materials include:

1. Career Interests
Narrative sections describing:

• Why you are interested in tropical medicine (not to exceed 2000 characters)
• Prior overseas experience (not to exceed 2000 characters)
• Short and long-term career objectives (not to exceed 2000 characters)

2. Curriculum Vitae

Information from your curriculum vitae regarding education, training, work experience, prior research experience, any publications or abstracts, honors and awards. You will be asked to include institutional affiliation, year of medical school, mailing address, telephone and fax numbers and e-mail address.

3. Letters of Recommendation

Three letters of recommendation (to be submitted as pdf or Microsoft Word files) from:

• The supervising faculty mentor from your school
• Your dean of student affairs or equivalent
• A current or former teacher or supervisor who can attest to your academic, clinical, and/or research abilities and potential

Very important...These three individuals will be able to upload their letters directly to your application site. The submission site will ask you to provide the name, mailing address, phone, fax and e-mail for each of these individuals. The submission program will then generate an e-mail to these individuals with instructions to upload their letters to your application site. It is very important that you gather the contact information for these individuals prior to beginning your online submission. It is then your responsibility to communicate with these three individuals to ensure that they have received the e-mail generated by the submission site and have uploaded their documents by the March 3 deadline. After March 3, any applications that do not include all three letters of recommendation will be considered incomplete and will not be forwarded to the review committee.

4. Overseas Mentor Approval

Written approval (submitted as a pdf or Microsoft Word file) from a mentor who will be present at the overseas site during the elective (this person may be the same as the home medical school mentor if he/she will be on site for the elective).

Very important...You are responsible for uploading the overseas mentor approval letter as a pdf file to your application site. Please obtain this document from your overseas mentor before you begin your online application.

5. Elective Proposal
A proposal describing the following:

• Dates and duration of elective
• Description of overseas site (not to exceed 2000 characters)
• Specific objectives of elective (not to exceed 2000 characters)
• For research projects, rationale and significance, methods and anticipated problems (not to exceed 2500 characters)
• For clinical projects, description of clinical activities and responsibilities (not to exceed 2000 characters)
• Anticipated costs for travel, including best-price round-trip airfare and living expenses

Finalizing your application...After entering all information into your online application and after all document uploads have been made, go to the REVIEW SUBMISSION page and scroll down to the bottom. If all information has been entered correctly, you will see a drop-down menu at the bottom of the page. Select the response of COMPLETE in the drop-down menu and press SAVE. Your application will then be complete and ready for review.

For information about application content:
Christopher Plowe, c/o Carey Martin
410-706-2491; Fax 410-706-1204
E-mail: cmartin@medicine.umaryland.edu

For information about online application process:
Judy DeAcetis
847-480-9592; Fax 847-480-9282
E-mail: j.deacetis@astmh.org

Malaria Capacity Development Consortium

PhD Fellowships in Malaria Research 

The Malaria Capacity Development Consortium seeks applications for a new PhD fellowship programme supported by the Wellcome Trust which is open to African scientists wishing to pursue a career in malaria research.  Fellowships may be held at one of five African universities (College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi; Kilimanjaro Christian Medical College, Moshi, Tanzania; Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology, Kumasi, Ghana; Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda; University of Dakar, Dakar, Senegal). Students will also receive support from the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine or the University of Copenhagen. The consortium secretariat is based at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine.

Approximately 20, four-year fellowships will be offered which will cover; stipend, tuition fees, the costs of up to one year spent with a partner European University and up to £50,000 of research expenses for a project that is related to the treatment or prevention of malaria.

Applicants must be African nationals, normally resident in a malaria endemic country of Africa and have an intention to pursue a long-term career in malaria research or control. Candidates must have a first or upper second class first degree in an area relevant to malaria control, an MSc or equivalent degree would be an advantage.   

Details of the application procedure can be found on the Malaria Capacity Development Consortium website (www.mcdconsortium.org). If you have any difficulty in accessing this website please contact support@mcdconsortium.org.

If you would like any further information on the programme please contact Dr Amit Bhasin (amit.bhasin@lshtm.ac.uk).

Download Advert in PDF[181k] | Fellowship Description in PDF[161k]

Rothamsted International African Fellows Programme

AFP Guidelines [word, 120k]

AFP Bulletin [pdf, 237k]

AFP Pre-proposal form [word, 107k]

AFP Project Assessment Criteria [word, 43k]

FULLY-FUNDED POST-GRADUATE DIPLOMA IN INTERNATIONAL RESEARCH ETHICS

Faculty of Health Sciences
Centre for Bioethics
Solomon R Benatar MBChB, DSc (Med) Cape Town, FFA SA, FRCP London,  FACP [Hon], FRS SAfr
EMERITUS PROFESSOR OF MEDICINE AND DIRECTOR UCT BIOETHICS CENTRE
Observatory, 7925 • Cape Town • South Africa
Tel :   +27 21  406 6115
Fax :  +27 21 448 6815
Email : solomon.benatar@uct.ac.za

17th July 2008

Dear Colleagues

Re:       FULLY-FUNDED POST-GRADUATE DIPLOMA IN INTERNATIONAL RESEARCH ETHICS

IRENSA, in association with UCT’s Bioethics Centre, is recruiting candidates for its seventh cohort of Diploma students to begin their training early in 2009.

This one year course will comprise three, two-week on-site intensive educational activities, a home based practicum and a course guided reading programme between modules.  Successful trainees will be awarded the Diploma in International Research Ethics.

We seek to attract 10-11 mid-career professionals (7-8 students from South Africa and 3-4 from southern African countries) who serve as reviewing members on Research Ethics Committees (RECs) or as administrators/regulators of research. Through generous funding from the Fogarty International Center at the NIH, all students chosen to participate will be given full scholarships.

Our first six cohorts of students have been an impressive group of professionals from a wide range of institutions in South Africa, many southern African countries. They and their institutions have benefited from active participation in this capacity-building programme.
 
The need for high quality training in research ethics continues to be a high priority. The new South African National Health Research Ethics Council is now operational and requires all RECs to be registered. REC members will also be required to have some education in research ethics.  This is your institution’s chance to obtain, at no financial cost, the benefit of training that will expand your institution’s capacity to meet the challenges posed by the accreditation process. 

Our curriculum for this Diploma includes a module that provides training to facilitate meeting the challenges of a growing volume of public health research on infectious diseases and the principles of public health ethics.

I invite you to assist us to identify suitably qualified candidates from your institution.  Please ensure that your REC chair and all committee members receive the attachment.  This includes a detailed Prospectus for potential applicants.  The final date for submitting applications is 30 September 2008, but early applications are urged.

I have also attached a one-page ‘poster’ that announces IRENSA’s 6th Annual Research Ethics Seminar on 25th and 26th August 2008, together with a draft programme.  Over 100 people register each year for these highly successful two-day update on current topics in research ethics, and we expect even more this year.  Please distribute this widely, and encourage an early response.

I urge you to support both of our programmes by ensuring that qualified candidates submit applications for one of the 11 places in the Diploma programme soon, and that your institution is well-represented at the two-day Annual Seminar in August.

With kind regards,

Yours sincerely

S R BENATAR

Director
International Research Ethics Network for Southern Africa

Sixth Annual IRENSA Research Ethics Seminar: 2008

The UCT Bioethics Centre, in association with the International Research Ethics Network for Southern Africa (IRENSA), is pleased to announce its Sixth Annual Research Ethics Seminar.  This Programme, as well as IRENSA’s one year Diploma in International Research Ethics, is generously funded by the Fogarty International Center of the US National Institutes of Health. 

Scholarships are available on application for a few selected participants from financially disadvantaged institutions. These are funded by the Wellcome Trust.
 

VENUE:  BELMONT CONFERENCE CENTRE BELMONT ROAD, RONDEBOSCH

DATES:  MONDAY, 25 AUGUST – TUESDAY, 26 AUGUST 2008

This year’s programme features several extremely timely, cutting-edge topics.  We have also included subjects that have been recommended by many of you during last year’s session, and increased the number of lectures.  We again feature a break-out session that will seek to resolve practical ethical issues that arise from specific cases.  The Preliminary Programme is attached. 

Members of Research Ethics Committees, as well as teachers, researchers and others involved in design, implementation and monitoring of the research process are cordially invited.  In addition to the intense learning experience, the seminar provides an opportunity to meet and visit with colleagues from throughout the country.

This year we return to the Belmont Conference Centre, on Belmont Rd just a few blocks from the Main Road.   Although we have increased the number of major lectures, we have compressed our schedule so that we will finish in mid-afternoon Tuesday.  Lunch will be provided, coffee and tea will be provided each morning and during breaks.

No registration fee will be charged to participants.  You MUST register by no later than 8 August 2008 to hold your place, since space is limited.  If you register your space may be made available to another participant.  If you do not cancel by 18 August 2008, we will ask you to reimburse the cost of paying for your catering:  R 425.00

Attached is a B&B List which may be helpful when you make your accommodation bookings.

Please complete and return the attached Registration Form and send this to:  Ms Joy Hunter either by email: Joy.Hunter@uct.ac.za or via fax:  (021) 448-5653 by no later than 8 August 2008.

CPD Accredited

TDR Career Development Fellowship

Clinical Research & Development of TB Vaccines

The Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases (TDR) invite African nationals, working in the developing countries, to apply for a 12-month career development fellowship on Clinical Research& Development at TDR and with GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals (GSK Bio).

The training involves attendance to Good Clinical Practice (GCP)workshops, vaccinology seminars, clinical study management working groups and on the job practice in clinical study management and clinical development of vaccines. The trainee will be involved primarily in all aspects of clinical development of a candidate tuberculosis vaccine.

Summary of the Training Programme

1. Clinical Study Management (GSK Bio - Rixensart, Belgium)

Within the context of the Clinical R&D team, the trainee will be involved in activities related to :

• Study preparation: study design, specific protocol summary (SPS)/protocols, case report form and logistics
• Conduct of centrally monitored studies: pre-study contacts, study
  initiation, monitoring
• Study reporting: data validation, study report
• Administration and documents: filing, tracking, financial agreement
• Contacts, co-ordination, representation: clinical operations group, clinical R&D, other Bio departments, international departments, investigators, audit
• Working together with the clinical development manager and the clinical team to implement a Clinical Development Plan
• Manage budget, resource needs and timing
• Knowledge development: literature review, attendance at scientific meetings, clinical trial methodology, FDA/ICH requirements, new technologies

2. Product Development and Evaluation at WHO/TDR (Geneva, Switzerland)

During a final period of one month the trainee will familiarize her/himself with technical and administrative processes of soliciting, reviewing and funding R&D proposals, with emphasis on clinical research and development. The trainee will follow closely the activities of the clinical co-ordinator of the Product Development and Evaluation Unit and staff of the Research Capability Strengthening Unit. The training will involve the overview and follow-up of activities related to TDR drug and vaccine develop ment.

Eligibility

Applications are requested from African nationals working or involved in the Ministries of Health, academic or research institutions and from those just finishing post-graduate programmes abroad. Preference will be given to candidates under 35 years holding an MD degree with clinical and research experience in the tuberculosis. A doctoral degree (PhD
or equivalent) is an additional asset. Candidates will be computer literate (MS Word, Excel) and able to demonstrate fluency in English, which is the working language of the programme. Other languages, especially French, are an asset. Candidates must be able to demonstrate
how the training programme will be put to use in tuberculosis research upon return to their home country. Prior international experience is an asset.

Application

The following documents should be sent in electronic format to RCStraining@who.int (no application form is required). If reference letters cannot be sent electronically, they may be sent in hard copy to the address below.

- Full name with the family name underlined.

- Date of birth, sex and nationality (copy of information page of passport or other identification document may be requested at a later date).

- Name, address, telephone number, fax number and e-mail address of institution where the applicant is employed. All applicants must have permanent employment.

- Telephone number for personnel contact and possible interview (if not the same as institutional telephone number above #4) must be included.

- Educational qualifications, including place of study, date of conclusion and grade obtained (transcripts and copies of qualifications are not required but may be requested later).

- A brief description of the applicant's current post and of the post held immediately before.

- A description (1 page maximum) of the applicant's current work/research interests.

- A brief description of how the applicant, if selected, plans to apply the acquired skills and knowledge after returning to his home country/institution.

- A list of the applicant's publications and other abstracts or presentations.

- A letter of recommendation from two senior scientists/professors that includes their address, telephone numbers, fax numbers and e-mail addresses. If possible, please scan and include these with the application.

- An endorsement from the Director of the applicant's home institution testifying to the ability of the applicant to undertake successfully the training proposed and certifying that the applicant, if selected, will be granted a leave of absence. The Director should also indicate how the proposed training will strengthen the institution's capability to conduct clinical research upon the return of the trainee.

- Applicants from countries requiring national endorsement should submit their applications through proper government channels. A copy of all applications should be sent to the WHO Representative's Office in their home country for information purposes.

All applications must be received at RCStraining@who.int by 15 September 2008

For further information:

Steven Wayling, Research Networks Manager
Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases
World Health Organization
1211 Geneva 27
Switzerland
Telephone: (41-22)791-3909
Fax: (41-22)791-4854
E-mail: waylings@who.int

Candidates closely matching the eligibility criteria will be contacted to arrange a telephone interview in October and final candidates will have a face to face interview in Geneva.

Applicants will be informed of the outcome in October 2008.

Training will begin by mutual consent or January 2009.

MASTERS DEGREES: Advanced Learning in International Health Research Ethics

The South African Research Ethics Training Initiative, SARETI, is a joint project by the University of KwaZulu-Natal, the University of Pretoria, faculty from Johns Hopkins University, and the Fogarty International Center of the US National Institutes of Health to offer advanced learning in bioethics and health research ethics. The programme is aimed at scientists, health professionals, members of ethics review committees, public health personnel, social scientists, philosophers, ethicists, health journalists, lawyers, and other professionals whose work impacts on health.

SARETI is an African programme in health research ethics that offers modular, academic and practical learning. Trainees develop the expertise required to ensure that health research in Africa has the welfare of individuals and of communities as its primary focus. SARETI's educational programmes vary from Masters programmes (MPH, MPhil, and MSocSci with majors in health research ethics), to 3-6 month Fellowships for senior professionals, to one-week intensive short courses.

SARETI announces the availability of scholarships that offer full financial support for up to four Masters degree trainees in 2009. These scholarships are available to professionals involved in health ethics and health research and who are resident in Africa. (Scholarships for short courses / non-degree programme are not available for 2009, but self-funded students are welcome to apply for these programmes or particular modules).

Applications for the 2009 Masters programme (which starts on 12th January 2009 in Pretoria) are invited. The closing date for applications is 15th August 2008.

For further information and application forms, see SARETI's website: http://www.up.ac.za/sareti or contact:
Ms Joyce Jakavula,
School of Medicine,
Faculty of Health Sciences,
University of Pretoria,
PO Box 667, Pretoria, 0001,
South Africa;
Tel: +27 12 354 1002;
Fax: +27 86 511 6622;
Email: joyce.jakavula@up.ac.za

OR

Mrs Carla Pettit,
School of Psychology,
Faculty of Humanities,
Development and Social Sciences,
University of KwaZulu-Natal;
Private Bag XO1;
Scottsville 3209;
Pietermaritzburg;
South Africa;
Tel: +27-33-260-6162;
Fax: +27-33-260-5809;
E-mail: pettitc@ukzn.ac.za

GCID Scholarship:

The Glasgow Centre for International Development is pleased to announce a new scholarship scheme to attract high quality candidates for PhD programmes from a limited number of Least Developed Countries (LDCs) in Africa and Asia. Click here to download a cover letter and details of the scholarship scheme.
Deadline for applications: 31 July 2008

Call for Applications: Post-doctoral research in malaria parasite biology

ICGEB Malaria Research program announces to the malaria community a position on an EC-funded project for a period of 1-3 years for young African Scientists  who are either  senior doctoral students close to completion or recent graduates (post-docs) in the Biosciences  with an interest in malaria. Specialization in any of the areas such as molecular biology, biochemistry, biophysics, microbiology or parasitology will be an asset.

Topic : Placental malaria

Duration : 2008 onwards

Location : ICGEB, New Delhi, India

Placement Supervisors: Drs. Chetan Chitnis and Amit Sharma

Qualification : PhD (in biosciences with an interest in parasitology)

Other requirements: Candidate must be able to read/write English.

Grant: Appointment will be for up to 3 years on a European Commission funded grant. Salary will be competitive and tax-free.

Health/Travel Insurance: Provided for.

Deadline for applications:  July 31, 2008.

Selection Process: Candidates must provide a detailed CV, at least two letters of recommendation from their current or previous supervisors, and a 2 page letter of interest describing their research interests and career goals. Applications will be screened at ICGEB by a panel of scientists followed by telephonic interview.

Complete application files should be sent to cchitnis@icgeb.res.in or asharma@icgeb.res.in

Post-Doctoral Position:

A post-doctoral position is available in the Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Epidemiology to work at a newly established malaria molecular biology laboratory to study mechanisms of parasite red cell invasion. The ideal candidate should have a Ph.D. and/or M.D., be highly motivated, and have a strong background in molecular biology techniques to include PCR, RT-PCR, cloning, northern and southern blot hybridization procedures, and experience with cell culture work. Experience in flow cytometry and in vitro culture of malaria are also very desirable. Interested persons should send their CVs and three letters of reference to José A. Stoute, M.D., by e-mail at jose.stoute@us.army.mil.
Penn State is committed to affirmative action, equal opportunity and the diversity of its workforce.

The Global Infectious Disease Research Training Program

Important dates

Letters of Intent Receipt Date(s): August 14, 2008; August 14, 2009; August 14, 2010
Application Receipt Dates(s): September 16, 2008; September 16, 2009; September 16, 2010
Peer Review Date(s): February 2009; February 2010; February 2011
Council Review Date(s): May 2009; May 2010; May 2011
Earliest Anticipated Start Date: June 1, 2009 ; June 1, 2010; June 1, 2011

Executive Summary

• Purpose. The purpose of this announcement is to invite applications for U.S. and developing country institutions for programs to provide infectious disease (excluding HIV/AIDS) research training to scientists and health professionals in order to build sustainable research capacity at institutions in low- and middle-income endemic countries.
• Funds Available and Anticipated Number of Awards. The total amount to be awarded is expected to be between $600,000 and $1 million per year, depending on availability of funds. The anticipated number of awards is four to six new and competitive renewal awards, one to two planning grants, and one to two supplemental awards each year.
• Budget and Project Period. An applicant for a new Global Infectious Disease Research Training Program award may request a project period of up to five years and a budget for direct costs of up to $138,000 per year maximum. An applicant submitting a renewal application may request a project period of up to five years and a budget for direct costs up to $184,000. An applicant for a revision to a current Global Infectious Disease Research Training award may request up to $46,000 per year direct costs for up to the number of years remaining in the award. A developing country applicant for a planning grant may request up to $23,000 direct costs for one year.
• Eligible Institutions/Organizations. Eligible organizations include non-profit public or private research institutions in the U.S. or developing countries.
• Eligible Project Directors/Principal Investigators (PDs/PIs). Eligible PDs/PIs include individuals from U.S. or developing country institutions, with a demonstrable history of research collaboration with the proposed partner institution, and who are designated as the PD/PI on at least one active infectious disease research grant (with at least 18 months of support remaining at the time of application) from the NIH or other national or international granting organizations.
• Number of PDs/PIs. More than one PD/PI, or multiple PDs/PIs, may be designated on the application. One collaborator from each country involved may be listed as a PD/PI on the application.

Number of Applications. Applicants may submit more than one application, provided that each application is scientifically distinct. Only one application may be submitted from an institution proposing research training on a particular infectious disease or working at a particular developing country institution.

More information is found: http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PAR-08-154.html

Course Announcement: 6th International Training Course on Management of Malaria September 1-5, 2008

Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Hospital for Tropical Diseases, (WHO Collaborating Centre for Clinical Management of Malaria), Mahidol University, 420/6 Rajavithi Road, Bangkok 10400, THAILAND

Contact: Dr. Polrat Wilairatana
Director, WHO Collaborating Centre
for Clinical Management of Malaria
Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University
420/6 Rajavithi Road, Bangkok 10400, THAILAND
Tel: +66 (02) 354-9100 ext. 1318
Fax: +66 (02) 354-9141
E-mail: tmpwl@mahidol.ac.th
cc: tmirunit@diamond.mahidol.ac.th
thimasarnk@searo.who.int
delacollette@searo.who.int

For course details and downloadable forms, secure them from
http://forum.actmalaria.net/YaBB.pl?num=1203555892

International Master’s Degree (M2) in medical and veterinary Entomology
-
Year 2008-2009: last call for student applications
download pdf (195K)

Summer School on Modern Methods in Biostatistics and Epidimiology

Short courses in clinical trials, epidemiology, and applied biostatistics are offered. As part of these courses, Dr. David Wypij, a biostatistician at Harvard School of Public Health and collaborator with the "Severe Malaria in African Children Clinical Research Network" will be teaching "Applied Logistic Regression". One of the prime examples in his course will be on the prediction of malaria mortality among hospital admissions in six African sites (Taylor et al.,"Standardized Data Collection for Multi-Center Clinical Studies of Severe Malaria in African Children: Establishing the SMAC Network", Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, 2006; 100:615-622; and Newton et al., "The Prognostic Value of Measures of Acid/Base Balance in Pediatric Falciparum Malaria, Compared with Other Clinical and Laboratory Parameters", Clinical and Infectious Diseases, 2005; 41:948-957).

Furthemore, Professor Marcello Pagano, who is consultant to the Malaria Implementation Resources Team at the World Bank, is offering a course on disease surveillance. The course will include monitoring and evaluation topics of malaria programs in the developing world.

More info are in: www.biostatepi.org
posted: 29 Feb 2008

International Master’s Degree (M2) in medical and veterinary Entomology
-
Year 2008-2009: 1st call for student applications
Download call [104K]

4 Year PhD Programme in Genomic Epidemiology

The MRC Centre for Genomics and Global Health is developing a unique PhD programme that will provide interdisciplinary training in genomic epidemiology, encompassing statistical genetics, bioinformatics and population genetics, and the opportunity to apply these skills to cutting edge research on major diseases of the developing world.
Four studentships are available to start in October 2008. They will be based at Oxford University but students will be encouraged to develop collaborative research projects at the Centre's partner institutions at the MRC Laboratories in The Gambia, the KEMRI - Wellcome Trust Research Programme in Kenya, the Wellcome Trust Programme in South-east Asia and the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute in the UK. Each studentship covers full course fees and research costs, together with an annual stipend (currently £12,600 per annum).
Candidates from all countries are eligible to apply for the studentships. Applications are particularly encouraged from talented candidates from the regions where the Centre operates in Africa and Asia.
The funding is for 4 years. The first year of the programme will be tailored to the individual’s background and will involve taught courses linked to the new Oxford doctoral training programme in Genomic Medicine. There may also be opportunities to take modules from the MSc in Applied Statistics or the MSc in Bioinformatics. During the first year students will be able to develop their research focus by working alongside the Centre's Informatics Fellows in The Gambia, Kenya, Viet Nam or Thailand.
After completing the first year's training, students will undertake a research project linked to one or more of the Centre's partner institutions. They will typically have two supervisors, at Oxford University and at the partner institution. The aim is to encourage students to work on multi-centre collaborative projects, and to use the PhD training programme to build capacity across a wider research network.
Further information about the Centre and of the research interests of some of the senior scientists involved can be found at www.cggh.ox.ac.uk.

Application Process

Applications, in the form of a full and detailed CV together with a supporting statement and at least two letters of reference, should be sent to the Studentships Administrator at the Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, Roosevelt Drive Oxford, OX3 7BN, United Kingdom. Applications are also welcome via email to: students@well.ox.ac.uk or fax: 01865 287516. Please quote reference H5-08-STU1 in all correspondence, including email application subject titles. The closing date for applications is Friday 14th March 2008.  

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Training Opportunities: Eight (8) PhD Studentships in Malaria Research, EMVDA

Further information: http://www.emvi.org/emvda+home/phd+programme+2008

Online registration: https://www.w1system08.de/emvda/intern/start_start_for.php?a

Malaria has a severe impact on the world’s poorest countries and on the most vulnerable individuals within those countries.  The European Malaria Vaccine Development Association (EMVDA) is a European Commission-funded Integrated Project for the systematic development and testing of malaria vaccines by comparative and continuous evaluation of candidate vaccines. One of the EMVDA objectives is to support advanced research training through an interdisciplinary collaborative PhD Studentship Programme.

The eight PhD studentships offer a unique opportunity for students to become engaged in malaria research in world-leading malaria research institutions. The studentships will be funded for a maximum of 3.5 years with the possibility of spending part of the studentship at an EMVDA partner institution. Students should hold the necessary degree(s) entitling them to undertake PhD study in their chosen country and possess a high standard of written and spoken English. Applications from women and African students are encouraged. 

A link to further information and application procedure on each of the projects can be found at http://www.emvi.org/emvda+home/phd+programme+2008

Applications will only be accepted via the online application system, a link to which can be found on the same webpage. Applications should be submitted before 6th March 2008 and candidates may apply for up to three different projects.  Informal enquiries on specific projects should be directed to the relevant supervisor below.  Successful candidates should be available to start around June 2008.

1. Vaccine-induced and natural immune responses to AMA1 in Mali

Supervisor 1: Prof. Alan Thomas (thomas@bprc.nl, Biomedical Primate Research Centre, The Netherlands).

Supervisor 2: Prof. Ogobara Doumbo (okd@mrtcbko.org, Medical Research and Training Centre, Mali).

2. Development of viral vector combination vaccine strategies targeting both pre-erythrocytic and blood-stage malaria

Supervisor 1: Prof. Adrian Hill (adrian.hill@imm.ox.ac.uk, Oxford University, United Kingdom).

Supervisor 2: Prof. Alan Thomas (thomas@bprc.nl, Biomedical Primate Research Centre, The Netherlands).

3. Statistical and epidemiological methods for assessment of correlates of antibody mediated immunity to P. falciparum malaria in children

Supervisor 1: Dr. Paul Milligan (paul.milligan@lshtm.ac.uk, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom).

Supervisor 2: Dr. Daniel Dodoo (ddodoo@noguchi.mimcom.net, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Ghana).

4. Induction and persistence of memory T cells by candidate malaria vaccines

Supervisor 1: Prof. Robert Sauerwein (r.sauerwein@mmb.umcn.nl, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, the Netherlands).

Supervisor 2: Prof. Alan Thomas (thomas@bprc.nl, Biomedical Primate Research Centre, The Netherlands).

5. Functional analysis of human monoclonal antibodies against MSP2

Supervisor 1: Prof. François Spertini (francois.spertini@chuv.ch, Hospices-CHUV, Switzerland).

Supervisor 2: Prof. Klavs Berzin (klavs@imun.su.se, Stockholm University, Sweden).

6. Immune responses to the erythrocytic stage of Plasmodium falciparum and the development of vaccines against malaria

Supervisor 1: Dr. David Cavanagh (david.cavanagh@ed.ac.uk, University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom).

Supervisor 2: Prof. Antony Holder (aholder@nimr.mrc.ac.uk, Medical Research Council, United Kingdom).

7. Assessment of the immune responses to a malaria candidate vaccine in immunised volunteers and exposed populations

Supervisor 1: Dr. Michael Theisen (mth@ssi.dk, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark).

Supervisor 2: Dr. Benjamin Mordmüller (benjamin.mordmueller@uni-tuebingen.de, University of Tübingen, Institut für Tropenmedizin, Germany).

8. Development of humoral immune responses and immunological memory against malaria vaccine-candidates in humans

Supervisor 1: Dr. Benjamin Mordmüller (benjamin.mordmueller@uni-tuebingen.de, University of Tübingen, Institut für Tropenmedizin, Germany).

Supervisor 2: Dr. Michael Theisen (mth@ssi.dk, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark)

Call for Applications, 2008/2009 Academic Year: MSc Haematology and Blood Transfusion, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences

Closing date: 30th March 2008

Applications are invited from the public for the MSc Haematology and Blood Transfusion programme at the Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es salaam, Tanzania.

Eligibility:

1. Holder of MMed degree of this university or its predecessor with good academic and professional conduct.
2. Holder of a degree equivalent to MMed degree from other recognized university with good academic and professional conduct.

Application  procedure:

All applications should be sent to the Director for Postgraduate Studies, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences copied to the Deputy Vice Chancellor – Academic, Research and Consultancy and Dean of the respective School.

For those with access to internet, application forms can be downloaded from http://www.muhas.ac.tz 

Candidates to be considered must provide:

1. Up-to-date detailed curriculum vitae.
2. Their undergraduate academic transcripts.
3. Three names of referees two of whom must be academic/professional.
4. The name of financial sponsor.
5. Non–refundable application fee of 20,000 /= for local students and US$ 30 for foreign students

Submit applications to:

The director, Postgraduate Studies,
Muhimbili University of Health and Allied
Sciences, P.O. Box 65001,
Dar es salaam, Tanzania.

Closing date: 30th March 2008

AFRICAN DOCTORAL DISSERTATION RESEARCH FELLOWSHIPS

Download this in PDF [51K]

The African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), in partnership with the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) and the Ford Foundation are pleased to announce a new fellowship to support doctoral students at African universities. The African Doctoral Dissertation Research Fellowship (ADDRF) seeks to facilitate more rigorous engagement of doctoral students in research, strengthen their research skills, and provide the fellows an opportunity for timely completion of their doctoral training. The fellowship targets doctoral students with strong commitment to a career in training and/or research. This first call focuses on students whose theses address issues relating to heath systems strengthening in Africa. ADDRF’s overall goal is to support the training and retention of highly skilled locally trained scholars in research and academic positions across the region.

Dissertation Awards

The ADDRF will award a maximum of 16 fellowships in the first year. These fellowships will be awarded to advanced doctoral students who are within two years of completing their doctoral thesis at an African university. Dissertation topics addressing health systems-related issues or sexuality from any disciplinary perspective are eligible for consideration.

Eligibility

The fellowship will primarily support research (including data collection and or analyses). Funds may not be used to support coursework.

Applicants must:

• Be citizens or permanent residents of a sub-Saharan African country,
• Be undertaking doctoral training at a recognized African university,
• Have completed all pre-dissertation requirements,
• Provide a detailed time-frame for completing their dissertation which should be endorsed by the head of department and the chair of the dissertation committee,
• Have a research topic that has been approved by their doctoral dissertation committee, as well as the official body overseeing ethical review of the research protocol, and
• Be able to complete their dissertation within 24 months of the start of the fellowship.

Selection Criteria

• The fellowship will target individuals whose dissertation research has great promise of making substantive contribution to strengthening health systems in Africa.
• Studies with clear linkages to relevant national or regional policies will be preferred.
• The fellowship will support original research that addresses a clear research question, employs appropriate and rigorous design, and has unambiguous policy implication(s).
• Candidates must demonstrate interest in pursuing a research career and dissertations must be sufficiently linked to future research interests.
• The dissertation should ideally be related to other work going on in the department or should have received strong endorsement and support from the department.

Female applicants and those from Francophone and Lusophone countries are especially encouraged to apply.

Eligible fields of study

The dissertation research may address any of the following issues: Health Sector Analysis; Health Management and Organization; Disease Burden; Health Care Financing (including health insurance); Quality of Care; Human Resources for Health; Program Evaluation; Health Equity; Costing and Cost-effectiveness; Policy Process (e.g., Decentralization); Community Participation; Research to Practice; Accessibility; Information, Education and Communication; Pharmaceutical Policy; Economic Policy and Health; Health Information Systems; etc. The fellowship for sexuality dissertation research may focus on any of the following issues; sexual orientation, pleasure, sensuality, intimacy, identity,sexual health and practices, the erotic, etc.

Evaluation criteria

The applications will be evaluated on the following criteria (maximum score in parentheses):

• Candidate’s scientific background and potential for development of a strong research career (20%),
• Scientific merit of the proposed research project including originality of research question(s); clarity and adequacy of the study design; demonstrated knowledge of relevant/current literature; detailed analysis plan, ethical considerations, etc. (40%),
• Research environment including commitment of main supervisors and department to facilitate timely completion of the dissertation (20%),
• Well elaborated statement on the policy relevance of the research (10%), and
• Budget summary and justification, including clear plan to complete the dissertation within 24 months (10%).

Cost

Each individual award will be approximately $15,000. Specific items may include field research, a monthly stipend for up to 12 months, and other research materials (e.g., laptop computer, specialized software or books, etc). Applicants may also include the cost of one local or regional conference where the results of the dissertation may be disseminated.  Successful candidates will attend two one-week training workshops. During these workshops, grantees will receive training and mentorship on various aspects of research (design and methods, ethics, data analyses, scientific writing, proposal development and communication of research results, etc). The first workshop will focus on research methods and will assist fellows in finalizing the design of their research.  The second workshop will focus largely on data management and analyses and writing skills. The students’ home institutions will receive an institutional overhead to support the department and dissertation committee in ensuring timely review of dissertation chapters.

Successful applicants will be expected to publish at least one peer-reviewed article from their dissertation within 36 months of receiving the award.

How to apply

All application materials must be received by March 29, 2008 in order to be reviewed.

Each applicant must submit

• Proof of citizenship or permanent residence in a sub-Sahara African country;
• A curriculum vitae that includes names of academic institutions attended, years of attendance, degrees obtained, employment history, publications and presentations, as well as awards, honors, and grants received;
• Two letters of reference (at least one must come from a faculty member with extensive knowledge of applicant’s academic history and performance and must document how the candidate’s dissertation research fits into other on-going research programs in the department). Referees’ contact information must be provided;
• A 10 page (maximum, double spaced with font size of at least 10) scientific proposal detailing the research question(s), study design, relevance of the study to national or regional health policy or challenge, and a detailed plan for completing the dissertation within a period not longer than 24 months after the award;
• Evidence that the research protocol has undergone ethical review and received approval from an approved ethical review board and the dissertation committee; and
• A statement of future research interest and career plans.

Applications not meeting these requirements will not be reviewed.

Applications should be sent to: The ADDRF Manager, African Population & Health Research Center, P.O Box 10787-00100 GPO, Nairobi, Kenya; or electronically to addrf@aphrc.org.

Call for Applications: Third AMANET/MRTC Workshop on Clinical Data Management for Vaccine Trials.
Date: 4 - 8 February 2008.
Venue: MRTC, University of Bamako, Mali.
Application Deadline(extended): 16 January 2008.
Who can apply? African Data Managers currently working in centres undertaking or planning to undertake malaria vaccine trials. More details click here.

Workshop on Molecular Epidemiology and Population Genetics of Malaria Parasites and Vectors
Date: 1-3 January 2008
Venue: Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
Application deadline: 21 December 2007
Outline: Molecular epidemiology of malaria parasites and vectors; Molecular detection of Plasmodium species; Genetic analysis of P. falciparum and P. vivax populations using molecular markers; Molecular detection of drug resistance related mutations; Identification of Anopheles species and sibling species; Detection of Plasmodium infection within Anopheles vectors; Molecular mechanisms of insecticide resistance; Bioinformatics

For more information or questions please contact Mr. Mostaan: emhgbn@gmail.com

Advanced Course on Immunology, Vaccinology and Biotechnology Applied to Infectious Diseases
Date: 10 September - 24 October 2008
Venue: WHO Immunology Research and Training Centre, Lausanne, Switzerland

To apply, please download and complete the Fellowship Application Form: WHO 52.1
Deadline for receipt of applications: 30 April 2008

The course will be conducted in English. The first part will be devoted to the recent advances in teh areas of basic immunology and molecular biology. Teaching modules will be structed to deal with the specific problems related to bacterial, parasitic and viral infections of public health importance. One module will be specifically devoted to the development of new vaccines adn the testing of their efficacy. Practical sessions will be organized during which participants will perform techniques. There will be an opportunity for one participant to stay at the centre for a period of up to four months after the course for further specialized training.

Malaria Control in Emergencies Workshop, The Mentor Initiative
Date: 21-25 April 2008
Location: Entebbe, Uganda
Closing date for applications: Monday 24 March, 2008

This one week workshop aims to increase the capacity of humanitarian partners at both field and organizational level to implement effective malaria control programmes with affected communities through better assessment and planning, surveillance, prention, case management and trageted operational research. More information.

Gene and Genomes in the Tropics
Malaria and Polymicrobial Interactions
April 28 - May 16, 2008
Kampala, Uganda
Download full in PDF [163K]
Posted: October 19, 2007

- 24 -28 September 2007
Third AMANET Workshop on Health Research Ethics for Ethics Committees and Review Boards in Africa, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Training Opportunity: Diploma in International Research Ethics

Deadline for Application: 30 September 2007

Download flyer: http://www.irensa.org/curriculum/diplomaflyer.doc
                     
IRENSA, in association with the University of Cape Town Bioethics Centre, received a generous grant from the Fogarty International Center of the US National Institutes of Health to support international bioethics education for four years.  The first five cohorts of trainees have completed or are now completing their programme.  We have received a four year renewal of funding for this programme, and are now recruiting our sixth cohort of 10 – 11 students.  The course will begin early in 2008 and run over an academic year. It will comprise three, two-week on-site intensive educational activities, a home based practicum and a course guided reading programme between modules. Our revised curriculum for this Diploma will include a new module that provides training to facilitate meeting the challenges of a growing volume of public health research on infectious diseases and the principles of public health ethics.  Successful trainees will be awarded the Diploma in International Research Ethics

Research Ethics: Philosophical, Professional, and Legal
Research on Human Subjects in a Cross-cultural Context
Global Health, Public Health Ethics & Public Health Research Ethics

Recruitment of Candidates
We are looking for mid-career professionals who have potential to provide leadership in bioethics at their home institutions and in their home countries.  Consistent with the policy of the University of Cape Town, we aim for gender balance in recruitment and selection of candidates.  Three of 11 places are assigned to candidates from southern African countries.

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants should have a background that reflects significant interest in bioethics or research ethics, broadly construed as a multidisciplinary enterprise.
• Applicants must demonstrate evidence of scholarly ability and personal maturity. Students who have not obtained a degree at an English speaking university must fulfil relevant University of Cape Town English requirements in order to demonstrate fluency in both oral and written English. Basic computer literacy is expected.
• Members of a Research Ethics Committee or other institutions or agencies involved in regulation and monitoring of biomedical research will be given preference.
• Candidates should display a high likelihood that they will provide significant leadership in research ethics and bioethics in his or her home country upon completion of the Diploma programme.
• Trainees are sought not only from health care disciplines, but also from candidates trained in other fields, such as philosophy, law, theology and social sciences.  We encourage representatives of government, businesses, and NGOs who have a professional interest and involvement in some aspect of research ethics to apply.

Application Process
Applicants must submit:
1. A letter of application that includes a brief summary of the candidate’s reasons for seeking entry to the programme, together with the following:

• Description of experience and interests that suit the applicant to the programme,
• Description of research ethic activities, such as teaching of research ethics or membership on a Research Ethics Committee, or a position in which regulation, administration or monitoring of research activities is a primary function,
• Indication of any special needs, and
• Anticipated ways in which applicant intends to use the skills and expertise gained by the course of study;

2. A formal UCT Application Form (This can be downloaded from the UCT website:  www.uct.ac.za - On the left hand side under ‘Prospective Students’ click on ‘Post-Graduate’.  At the top of the page click on ‘Application Forms’.  Go to the bottom of the page and click on the link to get the Adobe Acrobat format);  Choose the first bullet to get the form

3. Curriculum Vita;

4. Transcripts of all academic work at a post-secondary level;

5. Two letters of recommendation certifying applicant's academic qualifications and suitability for the program;

6. Name of a qualified person who would be willing to serve as home institution mentor, if such a person can now be identified, together with a letter from the proposed mentor confirming a willingness to supervise applicant's practicum (if no such individual can now be identified, other arrangements will be made upon admission); and

7. Letter from applicant's Dean or supervisor certifying that the student will be granted leave to attend all course activities without interruption or distraction, for preparation for course work, for completion of the Practicum project at his/her home institution, and a commitment by the institution to assist to develop the student’s career in bioethics and research ethics.

Students who live and work in the Cape Town area must in particular obtain a firm commitment from their Dean or supervisor that the student will have no responsibilities or duties that interfere or require absence from attendance or preparation during the three two-week training sessions at the UCT campus.

Financial Assistance
All candidates who are admitted will receive scholarships to cover the following:

• Trainees living outside the greater Cape Town metropolitan area will receive return travel expenses (at the equivalent of economy air fare) from their home institutions to Cape Town for attendance at the three two-week course sessions;
• All trainees receive their full tuition fees for the Diploma course;
• Candidates living outside the greater Cape Town metropolitan area will receive a stipend of approximately R12, 600 to cover temporary accommodation for 3 X 2 week periods of on-site participation;
• All trainees receive a subsistence allowance of about R1 400 per week of on-site attendance in Cape Town.
• Foreign students will be reimbursed their visa costs and single health insurance coverage for the time they spend in South Africa.

Deadline for Application
The final deadline for applications is 30 September 2007.  Because we expect to receive many more applications than we can accept, we encourage early submission of applications and all accompanying information.  We intend to select and notify successful candidates by early November 2007. 

For further information and updates on the programme schedule, please see IRENSA website:  www.irensa.org or contact:

Carmen de Koker
Secretary to Solomon R Benatar, Director
Carmen.Dekoker@uct.ac.za

Dr Theodore Fleischer
Associate Director
terryf@uctgsh1.uct.ac.za
Tel: (021) 406 6115
Fax: (021) 448 6815

Training Opportunity: Fourth Training Course on Functional Genomics of Insect Vectors of Human Diseases

Deadline for Application: 30 September 2007
African Center for Training in Functional Genomics of Insect Vectors of Human Diseases
(AFRO VECTGEN) at the Faculty of Medicine and Odontostomatology, University of Bamako, Mali. October 30, 2007 - January 25, 2008

For further information please go to the website http://sundjata.biology.ucla.edu/MRTC/Africangenomics/Announcement
For additional information, please visit the workshop website or contact Dr Seydou Doumbia by email.
Dr Seydou Doumbia
Coordinator of the training course
The African Center for Training in Functional Genomics
of Insect Vectors of Human Diseases (AFRO-VECTGEN)
Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy and Odonto-stomatology
BP 1805, Bamako, Mali
Email: sdoumbi@mrtcbko.org or sdoumbia@sundjata.biology.ucla.edu

- 08 -10 October 2007
AMANET Training Workshop for Data Safety & Monitoring Board
(DSMB) Members from African Institutions, Dar-Es-Salaam, Tanzania. www.amanet-trust.org

- 24-26 October 2007
 Malaria control in Emergencies Intensive Training Workshop. San Francisco, USA