Call for Applications: Leadership for Innovation and Excellence in Accelerating Research on Women’s Health Programme

The National Academy of Medicine (NAM), in partnership with the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) and with support from the Gates Foundation, has opened applications for the Leadership for Innovation and Excellence in Accelerating Research on Women’s Health (LEA-WH) Programme. This new cohort-based initiative is designed to strengthen leadership, research excellence, and innovation in women’s health across Africa.

The one-year program supports exceptional mid-career African researchers and innovators who are advancing women’s health. Selected Scholars will benefit from structured mentorship, networking, and collaborative learning opportunities facilitated by NAM, alongside training delivered by KEMRI, the programme’s host institution.

The application deadline is 20 February 2026.

About the LEA-WH Programme

Operating under the title Leadership for Innovation and Excellence in Accelerating Research on Women’s Health, the programme aims to build long-term capacity and leadership in women’s health research and innovation across Africa. It leverages NAM’s membership and the wider international network of the National Academies to support researchers with high potential to move into expanded leadership roles and to shape impactful research agendas.

The program’s goals include:

• Supporting professional development for women’s health research leaders across Africa
• Increasing the international visibility of their work
• Strengthening skills in grant writing and research programme leadership
• Building a lasting network of mentors and peers

Programme success will be assessed through indicators such as funded grant proposals, publications, career advancement, participation in policy and advisory bodies, mentorship of junior colleagues and tangible research and innovation outputs.

Programme structure and activities

LEA-WH is part of a three-year initiative that will engage up to 20 scholars per year through a combination of in-person and virtual convenings, complemented by asynchronous professional development activities. Key elements include:

• Joint Scholar selection by NAM and KEMRI
• Structured mentorship with experienced leaders in research and innovation
• Networking opportunities with regional and NAM-affiliated partners, supported by a travel budget
• Outreach and information sharing through an online platform and programme communications
• Ongoing monitoring and evaluation of activities, outputs and impacts

How to apply

Full programme details and application information are available at:

• https://nam.edu/our-work/health-policy-fellowships-and-leadership-programs/scholars-in-global-womens-health-research-program/
• https://kgs.ac.ke/lea-wh/

Researchers and innovators advancing women’s health across Africa are encouraged to apply or share this opportunity with colleagues.