Call for Applications for PHD Training in Cell and Gene Therapy Tender at Joint Clinical Research Centre

Institution: Joint Clinical Research Centre (JCRC) in collaboration with Makerere University (Mak) and Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST)

Research Focus Areas:
"- Gene editing technologies (e.g. CRISPR-Cas) targeting HIV

• Latency reversal and immune modulation strategies
• Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cell therapies
• C&GT clinical trial readiness"

Eligibility:
"- Be Ugandan with not more than 10 years after graduation for their master’s degree

• Hold a Masters degree in a relevant field (e.g. Molecular Biology, Immunology, Biomedical Sciences, Medicine, Laboratory, Social Work) from a chartered university
• Express interest in C&GT for HIV cure
• Be committed to enrolling and pursuing a 4-year, full-time PhD programme at Makerere University (Mak) or Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST)
• Evidence of being admitted to a PhD Programme is an added advantage but is not required
• Willingness to engage in multidisciplinary research grant applications and international collaborations
• Potential to handle rigorous academic requirements of the PhD programme
• Willingness to undertake overseas attachment at a US institution"

Fellowship Benefits:
"- Full tuition fees and other University fees at Mak or MUST

• Monthly stipend
• Research support including fieldwork costs
• Mentorship from local and international leading scientists
• Short-term training/placement opportunities for C&GT at a US partner institution
• Training in scientific writing, grantsmanship and responsible conduct of research
• Funding support to present research at local and international conferences"

Application Requirements:
"- Cover letter (1-page maximum) expressing interest in the PhD programme

• Curriculum Vitae (maximum 5 pages)
• Personal Statement (1-page maximum) - must address eligibility criteria above
• Not more than 5-page research synopsis related to HIV C&GT
• Evidence of scholarly achievement – be included in the CV as well as in the research synopsis
• Academic transcripts and other relevant academic documents
• Two reference letters, including at least one from an academic referee, should be sent separately to the email address provided below by the application deadline"

Timelines:
"Application Deadline: September 19, 2015 at midnight
Interviews for shortlisted applicants: October 7, 2025
Notification date: October 13, 2025
Application Procedure: Applications must be sent by email as a single PDF document to training@jcrc.org.uq and indicate in the subject “PhD Scholarship Application 2025”
Inquiries can be forwarded to same email address