Are you a woman researcher passionate about transforming women’s health through data-driven innovation? The Data Science to Advance Women’s Health (DSAWH) Fellowship 2026 for Eastern and Southern African women scholars provides a remarkable opportunity to develop your expertise in data science, scientific writing, and health research.
This fully funded fellowship program empowers women scientists to address critical challenges in women’s health across Africa using modern data analysis and research tools.
Funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, this 9-month fellowship is designed to build the next generation of women leaders in data science who will make measurable impacts in advancing health research and policy. The program offers personalized mentorship, training, and access to international networks of scholars and professionals.
Data Science to Advance Women’s Health (DSAWH) Fellowship 2026 Summary
| Category | Details |
| Host Region | Eastern and Southern Africa |
| Program Type | Fellowship (9 months) |
| Focus Area | Data Science in Women’s Health |
| Funded By | Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation |
| Eligible Applicants | Early-career women researchers in health sciences |
| Number of Awards | 20 Fellows |
| Funding Coverage | Fully Funded (Training, Mentorship, Conference Participation, and Publication Support) |
| Application Opens | October 6, 2025 |
| Application Deadline | November 3, 2025 |
| Academic/Research Focus | Women’s Health and Data Science |
What Is the DSAWH Fellowship All About?
The Data Science to Advance Women’s Health (DSAWH) Fellowship 2026 is a transformative initiative aimed at equipping early-career women scientists in Eastern and Southern Africa with the skills needed to use data science for advancing women’s health research.
In a region where gender disparities in health and education persist, this fellowship provides a platform for women researchers to strengthen their scientific and analytical abilities while addressing pressing public health challenges affecting women.
Over the course of nine months, 20 selected fellows will undergo advanced training in data analytics, research methods, scientific communication, and publishing. Participants will also receive continuous mentorship from top researchers, health professionals, and data scientists who will help them shape their career trajectories.
Through this program, fellows will learn how to transform health data into actionable insights, contributing to improved healthcare systems and outcomes for women in Africa.
Program Structure and Duration
The DSAWH Fellowship spans nine months and combines both virtual and in-person components. It is structured to ensure that fellows acquire practical and theoretical skills while maintaining flexibility for their academic or professional commitments.
Key aspects of the fellowship include:
- Advanced Training: Fellows will undergo specialized training in modern data science techniques, programming, statistical analysis, and visualization tools.
- Scientific Writing Workshops: Participants will receive hands-on guidance in writing and publishing academic papers in peer-reviewed journals.
- Mentorship Sessions: Each fellow will be assigned a mentor to provide personalized guidance on career development and research advancement.
- Networking Opportunities: Fellows will connect with peers, mentors, and leading data scientists through workshops and conferences.
- Capstone Project: Participants will apply their acquired skills to their own research projects, particularly those focused on women’s health.
- Annual Summer School & Workshop: Selected fellows will attend the prestigious DSA Annual Summer School, where they will present their research, collaborate with global experts, and participate in intensive workshops.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
To qualify for the Data Science to Advance Women’s Health (DSAWH) Fellowship 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Academic Qualifications: Must be pursuing a Master’s or Doctoral degree, or be a postgraduate researcher actively working in the field of women’s health.
- Research Background:
- Applicants should have an existing draft of a first-authored research paper in progress.
- Their research should be related to women’s health, such as reproductive health, maternal health, or gender-based health disparities.
- Regional Eligibility: Applicants must be women researchers from Eastern or Southern Africa.
- Commitment to Women’s Health and Data Science: Candidates should demonstrate a strong interest and potential to apply data science tools to women’s health research.
- Professional Aspiration: The fellowship targets early-career researchers who aim to advance their academic or professional careers through data-driven research.
Benefits of the DSAWH Fellowship 2026
Selected fellows will enjoy a comprehensive package of academic, financial, and professional benefits. These include:
- Advanced Training and Mentorship:
Fellows will receive extensive training in modern data science and analytical methods relevant to health research. Each participant will also benefit from personalized mentorship provided by global experts. - Scientific Writing and Publication Support:
Participants will receive full guidance on writing and publishing research papers, including coverage for open-access journal publication fees. - Networking and Collaboration:
Fellows will join a strong network of women researchers, gaining access to international collaborations and research communities focused on data-driven health innovation. - Fully Funded Attendance at the DSA Annual Summer School:
All selected participants will be fully sponsored to attend the DSA Annual Summer School & Workshop, where they will present their research and engage in interactive sessions with professionals from around the world. - Career Advancement Opportunities:
The fellowship provides fellows with tools and exposure that can significantly enhance their academic careers, enabling them to publish impactful research and secure future grants. - Full Financial Coverage:
All participation costs, including training materials, mentorship, travel (for workshops), and publication fees, will be fully covered by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
Required Documents
To apply for the Data Science to Advance Women’s Health Fellowship 2026, applicants are expected to prepare and submit the following documents:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) highlighting academic background and research experience.
- Statement of Purpose detailing your motivation for applying and how the fellowship will contribute to your career and women’s health research.
- Draft of a First-Authored Research Paper (work in progress or near completion).
- Proof of Enrollment or Degree Certificate (for postgraduate or doctoral candidates).
- Two letters of recommendation from academic or professional supervisors supporting your application.
All documents should be properly labeled and submitted through the official application portal before the deadline.
Step-by-Step Procedure to Apply
Here’s how to apply for the DSAWH Fellowship 2026:
- Visit the Official Webpage:
Access the official DSAWH Fellowship webpage to review full details, eligibility, and application instructions. - Prepare Your Application Documents:
Ensure all required documents (CV, statement of purpose, research paper, and references) are completed and ready for upload. - Complete the Online Application:
Fill in your personal and academic information accurately and upload all necessary documents. - Submit Before the Deadline:
Submit your completed application before November 3, 2025. Late applications will not be considered. - Await Selection Results:
Applications will be reviewed by the selection committee, and successful candidates will be contacted for further information or interviews.
Why You Should Apply for the DSAWH Fellowship
Applying for the Data Science to Advance Women’s Health (DSAWH) Fellowship 2026 is more than just an academic opportunity; it is a chance to become part of a movement transforming women’s health through data innovation.
Here’s why this program is exceptional:
- Empowerment: It supports women researchers to lead in the male-dominated fields of data science and health research.
- Impact: Fellows gain the expertise to influence policy and practice in women’s health.
- Networking: It connects participants to an international community of scientists, mentors, and professionals.
- Career Growth: Fellows gain critical technical and research communication skills that elevate their academic and professional prospects.
By joining this fellowship, participants not only enhance their own research but also contribute meaningfully to the advancement of women’s health in Africa and globally.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who can apply for the DSAWH Fellowship 2026?
Women researchers from Eastern and Southern Africa who are pursuing postgraduate studies or working as postdoctoral researchers in women’s health can apply.
Is the fellowship fully funded?
Yes. The fellowship covers all costs, including training, mentorship, travel, and publication fees.
How long does the program last?
The fellowship runs for nine months, combining online and in-person training sessions.
What is the main objective of the fellowship?
The goal is to equip early-career women researchers with advanced data science skills to drive research and innovation in women’s health.
How many participants will be selected?
A total of 20 fellows will be chosen for the 2026 cohort.
For more details about the program and application guidelines, visit the official webpage of the Data Science to Advance Women’s Health (DSAWH) Fellowship 2026.
Official Link: Visit Here
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