INTENSIVE 8-WEEK PROGRAM

Research Translation & Innovation Fellowship

A rigorous, immersive fellowship designed to equip emerging leaders with the skills to translate health research into community action, policy influence, and scalable innovation.

8 Weeks

Intensive format

1 Session (4hrs)/Week

Live + applied

8 Deliverables

Portfolio outputs

Certificate

Upon completion

Cohort-based

Peer learning

COMING SOON — APPLICATIONS OPEN Q3 2026
Cohort 2

Application window opens July 10th, 2026 — 30 seats available. STUDENTS, researchers, health practitioners, program officers, community health leaders, and policy advocates who demonstrate a strong commitment to translating evidence into tangible community benefit are welcome to apply. The fellowship seeks a diverse cohort representing various health domains, geographies, and professional backgrounds.

Early expressions of interest are encouraged. Selected fellows will receive mentorship, access to a rich curriculum, and an opportunity to join the UWRA alumni network.

Register Your Interest

Complete the form below to join our mailing list and receive early notification when applications officially open on July 10th, 2026.

8-Week Intensive Fellowship Journey

Each week combines expert-led sessions, applied exercises, and structured deliverables that build toward a complete Research Translation & Innovation Portfolio. The curriculum emphasizes real-world application, peer exchange, and hands-on coaching.

01
Foundations of Research Translation & Innovation

From research to real-world impact — understanding translation, innovation, and problem framing.

Output: Research problem statement + HMW framework
02
Community Context, Ethics & Stakeholder Engagement

Ethical frameworks, equity-driven innovation, and effective stakeholder mapping.

Output: Ethical reflection + Stakeholder map & strategy
03
Design Thinking for Research Translation

Converting research insights into actionable, user-centered solution concepts.

Output: Problem statement + Innovation concept note
04
Innovation Models, Pathways & Feasibility

Translation pathways (policy, programs, products) and feasibility assessment.

Output: Feasibility & Risk Assessment Matrix
05
Research Communication & Policy Engagement

Writing for decision-makers, policy briefs, and knowledge mobilization.

Output: 2-page Policy or Practice Brief
06
Implementation Planning, Piloting & Learning Systems

Designing ethical pilots, monitoring frameworks, and adaptive implementation.

Output: Pilot Implementation & Learning Plan
07
Impact Measurement, Scale & Sustainability

Indicators, scaling pathways, and long-term sustainability strategies.

Output: Impact, Scale & Sustainability Strategy
08
Showcase, Reflection & Professional Transition

Final presentations, portfolio completion, and alumni network integration.

Output: Showcase presentation + Complete Portfolio

Fellowship features

Research Translation

Learn systematic methods to convert complex research findings into actionable programs and policies. Master evidence synthesis, adaptation frameworks, and contextualization strategies.

Innovation Frameworks

Master design thinking, feasibility analysis, prototyping, and scaling pathways for health solutions that respond to real community needs and systemic gaps.

Expert Mentorship

One-on-one guidance from researchers, policy advisors, and innovation practitioners who have successfully moved evidence into programs, products, and policies.

Portfolio Development

Complete 8 concrete deliverables demonstrating your research translation competencies — a professional portfolio you can use for career advancement and funding applications.

Cohort Network

Join a selective community of emerging research translation leaders across Africa. Build lasting professional relationships, exchange insights, and collaborate beyond the fellowship.

Professional Credential

Earn a recognized certificate in Research Translation & Innovation from UWRA, signaling your expertise to employers, funders, and academic institutions.

What you will produce

Research problem statement & HMW framework
Ethical reflection & stakeholder map
Innovation concept note
Feasibility & risk assessment matrix
Policy or practice brief (2 pages)
Pilot implementation & learning plan
Impact, scale & sustainability strategy
Complete Research Translation Portfolio

What we expect from fellows

Inclusive Communication

Jargon-free, accessible language for diverse audiences

Ethical Rigor

Equity awareness and responsible research practice

Active Participation

Peer learning and constructive feedback culture

Iterative Learning

Adaptation and continuous improvement mindset

Eligibility criteria

Students & Researchers

University/College students, Research assistants, graduate students, emerging academics

Health Practitioners

Health Care Workers in need of Research translation & innovation expertise

Program & M&E Officers

NGO and CBO staff working in health programs

Policy & Advocacy Professionals

Those working at the intersection of research and policy

Ready to translate evidence into action?

Join the next cohort of research translation leaders. Applications for Cohort 2 open July 10th, 2026.

Register your interest →

Limited seats available. Early registration recommended.