Bold Science. African-Led. Impact-Driven
Training and capacity strengthening are central to AIRID’s mission. The Institute is committed to developing skilled scientists, technical staff, and institutional systems that enable high-quality, independent research and evidence-based public health action across Africa.
AIRID’s approach goes beyond short-term training. Capacity strengthening is embedded within research programmes, facilities, and partnerships to ensure lasting impact at individual, institutional, and system levels.
Explore training pathways
Our Capacity Strengthening Approach
AIRID adopts an integrated approach that links training directly to real research delivery. Capacity strengthening activities are designed to:
- Build practical, hands-on skills through participation in active research
- Strengthen institutional systems and quality frameworks
- Support career development and scientific leadership
- Promote African ownership of research agendas and outputs
This approach ensures that training contributes to sustainable capability rather than isolated skill acquisition.
Training Pathways
AIRID supports multiple training pathways tailored to different career stages and professional needs.
Early-Career Researchers and Students
AIRID provides structured opportunities for undergraduate, MSc, and PhD students to gain practical research experience through:
- Supervised research projects embedded within ongoing studies
- Mentorship by experienced scientists and Centre Directors
- Exposure to laboratory, semi-field, field, and data platforms
- Training in research ethics, data integrity, and scientific communication
These pathways aim to develop the next generation of African researchers with strong methodological foundations.
Postdoctoral Fellows and Research Scientists
For postdoctoral fellows and early-career scientists, AIRID offers opportunities to:
- Lead components of research projects
- Develop grant-writing and project management skills
- Supervise students and junior staff
- Engage with national and international collaborators
This supports progression towards independent research leadership.
Technical and Laboratory Training
AIRID provides hands-on technical training aligned with its research platforms, including:
- Entomological methods and insectary management
- Laboratory bioassays and vector control evaluation
- Molecular and diagnostic techniques
- Analytical chemistry and quality control methods
- Data management, analysis, and modelling
Training is delivered through supervised practice, short courses, and on-the-job mentorship within AIRID facilities.
Mentorship and Leadership Development
AIRID places strong emphasis on mentorship as a cornerstone of capacity strengthening. This includes:
- Structured mentorship relationships
- Leadership development for emerging scientists
- Support for women and under-represented groups in research
- Exposure to policy engagement and global health forums
Mentorship is integrated into research teams and leadership structures to foster long-term professional growth.
Capacity strengthening at a glance
Partnerships for Capacity Strengthening
AIRID works in partnership with universities and research institutions, national disease control programmes, regional and international research networks, and industry and innovation partners. Through these partnerships, AIRID supports joint training initiatives, staff exchanges, co-supervision of students, and shared learning platforms.
Commitment to African-Led Capacity Development
AIRID is committed to strengthening African research leadership and reducing dependency on external expertise. Training and capacity strengthening are designed to support: local ownership of research agendas; retention of skilled scientists within African institutions; and equitable partnerships in global health research. This commitment underpins AIRID’s vision of African-led science delivering global impact.
Institutional Capacity Strengthening
In addition to individual training, AIRID supports institutional capacity strengthening by: developing and implementing quality systems and SOPs; strengthening laboratory and research governance structures; supporting data governance and information management systems; and building administrative and grant management capacity. This ensures that partner institutions and research units can sustainably deliver high-quality research.