About the University of KwaZulu-Natal HEARD PhD Scholarships

The Health Economics and HIV/AIDS Research Division (HEARD) based at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (South Africa) is a regional and global leader for applied research and policy development on critical health and development challenges for the African continent.

HEARD conducts research on the socio-economic aspects of public health, especially the African HIV and AIDS pandemic. The organisation has an Africa-wide mandate with research applicable across the region that impacts on regional policies and programmes.

HEARD is offering PhD Scholarships for 2021 as part of its commitment to investing in the development of African scholars.The scholarship is aimed producing expertly qualified graduates to advise or to be part of influential policy-making or programme implementing entities in Africa, and to pursue additional research priorities.

WHO SHOULD APPLY?

Applications are invited from citizens of all African countries. Female candidates and, in the case of South Africa, those from previously disadvantaged backgrounds, are especially encouraged to apply.

APPLICANTS MUST

• Hold a Master’s Degree in a pertinent subject or a first or upper second class degree together with a track record of professional experience in a health or health-related field.
• Have demonstrable research experience.
• Undertake to register for a PhD dissertation (full time) at the University of KwaZulu–Natal (UKZN).
• Make a commitment to remain on the African continent for at least TWO years after graduation.

HOW TO APPLY

Submit the following documents:

• A letter of motivation and CV.
• An eight to ten-page concept note on one of HEARD’s key thematic research areas: Sexual & Reproductive Health and Rights; Gender Equality and Health; Health Governance and Finance; and Health Systems Strengthening.
• Certified copies of both your academic qualifications and your full academic records. If qualifications were obtained from non-English speaking countries please ensure that an official English translation is included.
• A certified copy of your ID/passport.
• Two letters of reference, at least one of which must be academic. The second can be from an individual of professional standing.

FEES & FUNDING

The value of each scholarship is R540, 000 and will be paid in equal tranches over three years and payments will be conditional on research progress. Successful candidates are required to be based in Durban, South Africa, for the duration of the scholarship, with the
exception of the time during which they may undertake field research elsewhere.

TERMS & CONDITIONS

• Applicants in the process of completing a Master’s degree will not be considered.
• PhD students may not work while studying.
• The first scholarship tranche will be released on proof of PhD registration
  and the opening of a South African bank account.
• If you have not received a reply within 6 weeks of the closing date, kindly consider your application unsuccessful.
• Applications must be submitted to Ms Cailin Hedderwick, PhD Programme Manager ([email protected]) by 15 April 2021.