Visiting Scholar Program

A platform for collaborative research and knowledge exchange

The Utafiti Wellness Research Association (UWRA) Visiting Scholar Program offers a unique opportunity for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners from around the world to engage in collaborative research, knowledge exchange, and capacity strengthening. The program is designed to foster intellectual exchange, advance implementation science, and translate evidence into actionable policies and programs that improve community health across Africa.

Visiting scholars are immersed in UWRA's vibrant research environment, working alongside our multidisciplinary team of researchers, fellows, and partners. They contribute their expertise to ongoing projects while gaining firsthand experience in implementation research, knowledge translation, and policy engagement in the African context. The program is mutually beneficial, enriching both the visiting scholar's research and UWRA's institutional capacity.

Whether you are a tenured professor seeking to expand your research into African settings, a postdoctoral researcher looking to build your portfolio in implementation science, or a policy professional interested in evidence-informed decision-making, the UWRA Visiting Scholar Program provides a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment for your work.

Program features

The Visiting Scholar Program provides a comprehensive package of support and engagement opportunities.

Research and engagement areas

Visiting scholars are invited to collaborate across UWRA's thematic and functional areas. We welcome proposals that align with our strategic priorities and institutional philosophy of "Evidence to Action."

• Implementation Science: Studying the methods, strategies, and conditions that enable evidence-based interventions to be adopted, adapted, and sustained in real-world settings.
• Health Systems Strengthening: Research on health system governance, financing, human resources, and service delivery, with a focus on primary health care and universal health coverage.
• Knowledge Translation: Ensuring research findings are synthesized, packaged, and communicated effectively to policymakers, practitioners, and communities.
• Community-Engaged Research: Co-designing and co-implementing research with communities to ensure relevance, ownership, and sustainable impact.
• Maternal and Child Health: Research on interventions to reduce maternal and child mortality and improve health outcomes for women and children.
• Mental Health: Integrating mental health into primary care and community settings, with a focus on adolescents and vulnerable populations.
• Non-Communicable Diseases: Research on prevention, screening, and management of NCDs in low-resource settings.
• Digital Health and Innovation: Designing, testing, and evaluating digital health solutions, decision support systems, and data science applications.
• Policy and Governance: Translating evidence into policy recommendations and supporting health governance at national and county levels.

Application process

We welcome applications from scholars, researchers, and practitioners at all career stages who are committed to advancing health research and translation in Africa.

Eligibility Criteria

• Academic Researchers: Faculty members, postdoctoral researchers, and doctoral candidates from universities and research institutions worldwide.
• Policy Professionals: Policymakers and policy analysts with a strong interest in evidence-informed decision-making and health systems strengthening.
• Practitioners: Public health professionals, program managers, and community health leaders with expertise in implementation, evaluation, or knowledge translation.
• Minimum Qualifications: A Master's degree in a relevant field (PhD preferred for academic researchers). Demonstrated experience in research, policy, or practice related to health systems or public health.
• Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English (spoken and written). Knowledge of Swahili or French is an advantage.

How to Apply

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. To apply, please complete the online application form below, which includes the following components:

1. Personal Information: Contact details, academic background, and current professional position.
2. Research Proposal: A brief outline of your proposed research, engagement, or collaboration with UWRA (500 words maximum).
3. Curriculum Vitae: Upload your most recent CV or resume.
4. Statement of Purpose: Explain your motivation for applying to the Visiting Scholar Program and how it aligns with your career goals and UWRA's mission.
5. Letter of Support: A brief letter of support from your home institution or supervisor (if applicable).

Voices from our visiting scholars

Hear from scholars who have participated in UWRA's Visiting Scholar Program.