SACEMA Postgraduate Bursary 2025. The South African Centre for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis (SACEMA) is offering a prestigious opportunity for MSc, PhD, and Postdoctoral candidates to join cutting-edge research in infectious disease epidemiological modelling. This bursary is ideal for students with a strong quantitative background, such as Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, Computer Science, and Epidemiology, and offers a platform to contribute to significant projects addressing health issues in South Africa and beyond.
SACEMA innovative research tackles some of the most pressing health challenges, including the HIV epidemic, hepatitis, HPV, and measles. As a bursary recipient, you will be involved in critical research projects, with a focus on developing solutions through epidemiological models. Below is an outline of the broad modelling topics that SACEMA focuses on:
Research Areas
- Interprovincial differences in the HIV epidemic across South Africa and related HIV-focused research projects.
- Assessing the impact of prevention strategies on hepatitis B virus in South Africa.
- Optimising wastewater surveillance for infectious diseases, including polio, measles, influenza, and hepatitis E.
- Research on preventing HPV infection and HPV-related cancers in South Africa.
- Estimating population immunity against polio and measles within South Africa and other African nations.
- Enhancing health system optimisation in West, East, and Southern Africa, particularly for HIV and related co-morbidities.
- Epidemiological analysis of childhood cancer cases in South Africa.
Minimum Requirements
SACEMA is seeking highly motivated individuals with a background in quantitative sciences and a keen interest in epidemiology. The eligibility criteria vary depending on the level of degree pursued (MSc, PhD, or Postdoctoral), but the fundamental requirements remain similar across all positions.
General Requirements
- Proficiency in English, both written and spoken.
- Prior experience in coding, particularly in languages such as R, C++, or other related programming languages.
Masters Degree
- Applicants must possess an Honours Degree or a Structured Masters Degree in fields like Mathematical Statistics, Epidemiology, Econometrics, Data Science, Mathematics, or any closely related quantitative discipline.
PhD Degree
- A Research Masters in Mathematical Statistics, Epidemiology, Econometrics, Data Science, or Mathematics is required for PhD candidates.
Postdoctoral Candidates
- Candidates must hold a PhD in Mathematical Statistics, Epidemiology, Econometrics, Data Science, Mathematics, or a related field.
- A demonstrated research track record is essential, including several high-quality publications, particularly as a first author.
- The PhD must have been awarded within the last five years.
Application Process
Before you begin the application process for the SACEMA Postgraduate Bursary, make sure to have all necessary documents ready, as you will not be able to save and return to the application form later.
The following materials are required:
| Required Documents | Description |
|---|---|
| Curriculum Vitae (CV) | No more than 3 pages detailing your academic and professional experience. |
| Motivation Statement/Statement of Interest | A document of 400 words or less that explains your interest in the bursary and your career goals. |
| Reference Letter | A letter of recommendation, preferably from your most recent degree supervisor, or another mentor. |
To apply, visit the SACEMA bursaries portal and complete your application. It is important to note that submitting your application does not guarantee funding, as bursaries are awarded based on merit and the availability of funds.
SACEMA Postgraduate Bursary: A Pathway to Advanced Research
SACEMA bursary is more than just financial support; it is a pathway for motivated individuals to make meaningful contributions to the field of infectious disease epidemiology. With opportunities to work on vital health projects in South Africa and across Africa, the program offers an unparalleled chance for candidates to refine their skills in epidemiological modelling while addressing some of the region’s most significant public health challenges.
Whether you are focusing on HIV, cancer prevention, or the surveillance of infectious diseases, this bursary provides the resources, mentorship, and academic environment needed to make a lasting impact. It also prepares candidates to contribute to public health policy and strategies through data-driven solutions.
Conclusion
For those with a background in quantitative sciences, the SACEMA Postgraduate Bursary offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be part of groundbreaking research. With the deadline approaching on 31 October 2024, now is the time to apply and take the next step in your academic and professional journey.
