In a landmark effort to deepen global scientific cooperation, the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine has announced that the next U.S.-Africa Frontiers of Science, Engineering, and Medicine Symposium will be held in Dakar, Senegal, from February 2–4, 2026, in collaboration with Cheikh Anta Diop University.

Early- and mid-career researchers from across the United States and African Union member states are now invited to apply to participate in the prestigious biennial event. The application deadline is July 31, 2025.

The symposium aims to spark transformative cross-continental partnerships by bringing together top scientific minds to tackle some of the world’s most pressing challenges. The 2026 edition will spotlight five interdisciplinary themes:

• Critical Minerals and Materials

• Artificial Intelligence for Decision Making

• Bioinformatics

• Food Security and Nutrition

• Child and Maternal Health

Each topic will be co-led by binational expert teams from Africa and the U.S., ensuring shared leadership and promoting mutual learning.

Organisers describe the symposium as more than a scientific gathering, calling it “a platform to build relationships that translate into real-world impact,” through joint research, technology exchange, and science-informed policy.

Unique to the Frontiers symposium is its inclusive, cross-sectoral format. Beyond plenary sessions, participants will showcase their research through poster presentations, encouraging deeper interaction and potential collaborations across disciplines.

The program also intentionally engages the African scientific diaspora, acknowledging their role as crucial connectors in global and regional innovation ecosystems.

To ensure equitable access, travel and participation costs for selected researchers will be fully funded.

 

Article by Nyokabi Wanjiku

Photo/Google

https://aasciences.africa/news/call-for-applications-2026-us-africa-frontiers-symposium