The Global West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (G-WAC) at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) invites qualified and motivated individuals to apply for its prestigious PhD Scholarship Programme. Supported by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), this initiative is funded through the budget of the Federal Foreign Office of Germany (Project ID: 17592995).

This competitive doctoral programme aims to train the next generation of scientists and policy leaders in Africa, equipping them with advanced research skills and interdisciplinary expertise to address infectious diseases, public health challenges, and the growing field of global health innovation.

Research Areas

Applicants are invited to propose research topics aligned with G-WAC’s core thematic areas. The programme is multidisciplinary, bridging biomedical research, epidemiology, and social science. The following focus areas are open for consideration:

1. 1. Bacteriology and Parasitology:
      Exploration of bacterial and parasitic infections of regional and global significance, including antimicrobial resistance, host-pathogen interactions, and disease transmission dynamics.
   2. Epidemiology, Modelling, and Data Science:
      Application of statistical and computational models to understand disease patterns, predict outbreaks, and inform evidence-based public health interventions.

1. 1. Global Digital Health:
      Research on the integration of digital technologies in healthcare delivery, disease surveillance, and health information systems to improve access and efficiency.
   2. Health Systems and Policy:
      Analysis of health governance, financing mechanisms, and implementation strategies to strengthen resilience, equity, and innovation within African health systems.
   3. Virology and Diagnostics:
      Investigation of viral pathogens, development of diagnostic tools, and assessment of emerging infectious threats in the context of global health security.
   4. Zoonoses, Community Engagement, and Social Science:
      Study of diseases transmitted between animals and humans, incorporating community-based research and the social determinants of health to support effective prevention and response mechanisms.

Eligibility

The call is open to qualified applicants from Ghana and other African countries who demonstrate academic excellence, research potential, and a strong interest in contributing to the field of infectious disease research and health policy.

• • Applicants must hold a relevant Master’s degree in Biological Sciences, Public Health, Epidemiology, Health Policy, or a closely related discipline.
  • Prior research experience in laboratory science, health systems, or community engagement will be considered an asset.

• • Female applicants are strongly encouraged to apply, as G-WAC promotes gender equity and inclusion in scientific research.
  • Applicants should be committed to full-time doctoral study at KNUST and to contributing to G-WAC’s mission of advancing global health through research and innovation.

Scholarship Coverage

The G-WAC PhD Scholarship, funded by DAAD, provides comprehensive support to enable scholars to focus entirely on their research. The package includes:

• Full tuition coverage at KNUST
• Monthly stipend to cover living expenses
• Research and fieldwork allowance
• Travel support for conferences or collaborative research (where applicable)
• Access to advanced laboratory facilities, mentorship, and professional development opportunities

The scholarship is awarded for up to three years, with continuation subject to satisfactory academic progress and adherence to programme requirements.