The African Academy of Sciences has selected forty African early-career scientists to become Affiliate Members of the AAS from 2020-2024. The fifth cohort joins an existing network of 87 Affiliates drawn from various African countries, across several scientific disciplines. AAS has reported.

The researchers, who have demonstrated excellence in the development and application of science in Africa, were competitively chosen from a pool of over 300 highly competitive applicants. They will receive professional development support in grant writing, publishing and science communication, ethical conduct of research, intellectual property issues, collaborative research, scientific leadership and entrepreneurship, mentoring and networking.

Speaking on the selection, Dr Judy Omumbo, Programme Manager, Affiliates and Postdoctoral Programmes, said  “It is exciting to witness the growing recognition of science in Africa’s development agenda. The continent’s best early career researchers are well placed to develop the research and innovations that will ensure future sustainable lives and economies for Africa’s citizens."

"We are delighted to see the fifth cohort of AAS Affiliates join over 80 colleagues in this effort,” she added.

By recognizing emerging scientists who demonstrate excellence in their work, the AAS seeks to create a platform through which younger researchers are motivated to pursue a rewarding career in science. This is in line with the overall mandate of the Academy to build a critical mass of thriving and impactful science leaders in Africa.

Photo courtesy / AAS

Article by Jedidah Mwangi

https://www.aasciences.africa/news/forty-promising-african-early-career-scientists-selected