Early-career researchers looking for international research experience can now apply for the NPGH LEADERs Global Health Fellowship 2027–2028. The program offers a year of hands-on research training at leading institutions across Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
Designed for doctoral students, medical graduates, and postdoctoral researchers, the fellowship combines mentorship, research funding, and field experience. Participants work alongside experts from top universities and research centers while addressing real-world global health challenges.
For aspiring global health leaders, this opportunity provides valuable international exposure and professional growth.
About the NPGH LEADERs Global Health Fellowship
The NPGH LEADERs Global Health Fellowship is a 12-month research training program focused on global health innovation and collaboration.
The fellowship connects researchers with mentors from participating U.S. universities and international partner institutions. Fellows conduct independent research while receiving guidance from experienced academics and health professionals.
The program helps participants strengthen research skills, expand professional networks, and contribute to solutions that improve public health worldwide.
Fellowship Details
| Program Name | NPGH LEADERs Global Health Fellowship 2027–2028 |
|---|---|
| Program Type | International Research Fellowship |
| Duration | 12 Months |
| Eligible Applicants | Doctoral Students and Postdoctoral Researchers |
| Research Areas | Global Health and Public Health |
| Host Regions | Africa, Asia, and Latin America |
| Funding | Research Support Available |
| Application Deadline | 15 September 2026 |
Research Areas Available
Participants can work on a wide range of health-related topics.
Research fields include:
- HIV/AIDS
- Cancer Research
- Mental Health
- Child Health
- Women’s Health
- Environmental Health
- Cardiovascular Diseases
- Diabetes
- Public Health Systems
- Behavioral Sciences
- Biomedical Engineering
- Data Science
- Aging Research
- Disease Prevention
- Addiction Studies
Applicants may also propose their own research project if it aligns with program priorities.
Funding and Financial Support
The fellowship provides support for approved research activities.
Funding includes:
Predoctoral Fellows
- Up to US$7,500 in research support
Postdoctoral Fellows
- Up to US$10,000 in research support
The funding helps cover project-related expenses and professional development activities during the fellowship year.
Who Can Apply?
The program welcomes researchers committed to advancing global health.
Predoctoral Applicants
Applicants must:
- Be enrolled in a doctoral program.
- Complete at least one year of study before the fellowship begins.
- Demonstrate strong research potential.
Postdoctoral Applicants
Applicants must:
- Hold a doctoral or terminal professional degree.
- Generally have earned the degree within the last six years.
- Show a clear interest in global health research.
Eligible Countries
The fellowship supports applicants from the United States and selected partner countries.
Eligible partner countries include:
- Cameroon
- Ghana
- India
- Kenya
- Nepal
- Peru
- Thailand
- Uganda
International applicants must be affiliated with an approved partner institution in their country.
International Research Placements
One of the strongest features of the fellowship is access to respected research institutions worldwide.
Host organizations include:
- University of Nairobi
- Kenya Medical Research Institute
- Jawaharlal Nehru University
- Chulalongkorn University
- Makerere University
- University of Ghana
- Kathmandu University
These placements provide valuable field experience and international collaboration opportunities.
Mentorship Opportunities
Each applicant must identify two mentors before applying.
The mentorship team includes:
- One mentor from a participating U.S. consortium university
- One mentor from the international host institution
This dual-mentorship structure helps fellows receive guidance from both global and local experts.
Strong mentor support can significantly improve the quality of a research project.
Benefits of the Fellowship
Selected fellows gain access to several career-building opportunities.
Benefits include:
- International research experience
- Expert mentorship
- Research funding support
- Professional networking opportunities
- Global health field exposure
- Collaboration with leading institutions
- Research publication opportunities
- Career development support
- Cross-cultural learning experiences
These experiences help fellows prepare for careers in academia, medicine, public health, and policy.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare the following materials:
- Research proposal
- Personal statement
- Mentoring plan
- Project budget
- Academic documents
- Recommendation letters from both mentors
- Academic transcripts for doctoral applicants
Preparing these documents early can strengthen an application.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should follow these steps:
- Identify a U.S. mentor.
- Secure an international host mentor.
- Develop a research proposal.
- Prepare supporting documents.
- Complete the online application.
- Submit before the deadline.
Applicants should begin contacting mentors several months in advance.
Building strong mentor relationships often takes time.
Application Deadline
The last date to apply for the NPGH LEADERs Global Health Fellowship 2027–2028 is 15 September 2026. Early preparation is highly recommended due to the mentorship requirements.
Final Thoughts
The NPGH LEADERs Global Health Fellowship 2027 offers a unique pathway for researchers seeking international experience and advanced research training. With mentorship from leading experts, access to respected institutions, and dedicated research funding, the program helps participants build strong foundations for future careers in global health.
For doctoral students and postdoctoral researchers aiming to create meaningful impact through research, this fellowship is an excellent opportunity to gain practical experience while addressing critical health challenges around the world.
