KNUST Call for PhD Scholarship Applications 2025 – Fully Funded by DAAD. The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Ghana has officially announced the Call for PhD Scholarship Applications 2025 under the Global West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (G-WAC).
This prestigious PhD programme, funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) through the Federal Foreign Office of Germany (Project ID: 17592995), aims to train Africa’s next generation of scientists, health professionals, and policy innovators to tackle infectious diseases and public health challenges across the continent.
KNUST G-WAC PhD Scholarship
The G-WAC PhD Scholarship 2025 offers a fully funded opportunity for qualified African students to engage in world-class research. Participants will work under the supervision of experienced KNUST faculty and international collaborators, gaining hands-on experience in biomedical and public health research.
This program aligns with KNUST’s commitment to developing transformative scientific leaders capable of driving Africa’s response to health and infectious disease crises.
Research Areas
Applicants are invited to propose research topics that align with G-WAC’s core thematic areas. The programme is highly interdisciplinary, connecting cell biology, epidemiology, digital health, and policy science.
Here are the main research categories for 2025:
1. Bacteriology and Parasitology
- Study bacterial and parasitic infections of regional or global significance.
- Explore antimicrobial resistance and host-pathogen interactions.
- Focus on disease transmission dynamics and preventive solutions.
2. Epidemiology, Modelling, and Data Science
- Apply computational and statistical models to understand disease trends.
- Predict outbreak risks and support data-driven health decisions.
- Use AI-based data tools for infectious disease surveillance.
3. Global Digital Health
- Research the integration of digital technologies in healthcare systems.
- Study digital platforms for disease surveillance and patient data management.
- Improve healthcare efficiency through innovation and ICT.
4. Health Systems and Policy
- Examine public health governance, financing, and equity.
- Assess strategies for resilient and innovative healthcare systems.
- Design policy frameworks to strengthen health systems in Africa.
5. Virology and Diagnostics
- Investigate viral diseases affecting global health security.
- Develop diagnostic tools for emerging and re-emerging viruses.
- Study vaccine innovation and viral transmission patterns.
6. Zoonoses, Community Engagement, and Social Science
- Study diseases transmitted between humans and animals.
- Conduct community-based health interventions.
- Analyze social determinants of health for effective disease control.
Eligibility Criteria
The KNUST PhD Scholarship 2025 is open to Ghanaian and other African nationals who meet the academic and professional requirements below:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Applicants from Ghana and other African countries |
| Academic Qualification | Master’s degree in Biological Sciences, Public Health, Epidemiology, Health Policy, or related fields |
| Research Experience | Prior research in laboratory science, health systems, or community engagement preferred |
| Commitment | Willingness to undertake full-time doctoral studies at KNUST |
| Language | English proficiency required (proof needed if previous degree not in English) |
| Gender Inclusion | Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply |
G-WAC promotes gender equity, inclusion, and diversity in all its academic programmes.
Scholarship Coverage
The DAAD-funded G-WAC PhD Scholarship provides comprehensive financial and academic support to selected candidates.
| Coverage Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | Full tuition at KNUST |
| Monthly Stipend | To cover accommodation and living expenses |
| Research & Fieldwork Allowance | Financial support for data collection and lab work |
| Travel Support | For international conferences or collaborative research (where applicable) |
| Mentorship & Training | Access to advanced labs, workshops, and professional development |
| Duration | Up to 3 years (renewable based on academic performance) |
This full-funding model ensures that students focus on research excellence and innovation without financial burden.
Application Procedure
Interested applicants must complete and submit their applications online through the G-WAC portal or the KNUST School of Graduate Studies portal before the deadline.
Required Documents:
- Cover Letter: Explaining motivation, research interests, and relevance to G-WAC’s focus areas.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Detailing academic history, experience, and any publications.
- Academic Records: Certified transcripts and degree certificates.
- Research Proposal: (Max 2 pages) Outlining objectives, methods, and expected outcomes.
- Recommendation Letters: Two academic references from supervisors or mentors.
- Proof of English Proficiency: For applicants whose prior studies were not in English.
Application Steps:
- Visit the official KNUST or G-WAC scholarship application portal.
- Register an account and complete all online forms.
- Upload required documents in PDF format.
- Submit the full application before October 31, 2025.
- Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview and final evaluation.
Deadline: All completed applications must be received no later than October 31, 2025.
Global West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens
The Global West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (G-WAC) is a regional centre of excellence hosted at KNUST, Ghana.
Its mission is to strengthen Africa’s scientific and public health research capacity by promoting interdisciplinary training, innovation, and collaboration. G-WAC works closely with global partners and international universities to address challenges such as infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and pandemic preparedness.
Through funding from DAAD and other partners, G-WAC supports postgraduate training, capacity building, and collaborative research across Africa.
Why Apply for the KNUST G-WAC PhD Scholarship 2025
Applying for this programme provides numerous long-term benefits:
- Be part of Africa’s top infectious disease research network.
- Receive world-class mentorship and technical support.
- Access international research collaborations and exchange opportunities.
- Contribute to Africa’s public health and policy innovation.
- Gain strong prospects for academic and professional advancement.
This scholarship is ideal for candidates passionate about tackling global health challenges while advancing Africa’s scientific excellence.
Key Highlights at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| University | Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Ghana |
| Centre | Global West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (G-WAC) |
| Funding Body | German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) |
| Programme Type | Fully Funded PhD Scholarship |
| Eligible Regions | Ghana and other African countries |
| Duration | 3 years (renewable) |
| Deadline | October 31, 2025 |
| Main Focus Areas | Infectious Diseases, Epidemiology, Digital Health, Policy, Virology |
Conclusion
The KNUST Call for PhD Scholarship Applications 2025 offers an incredible opportunity for aspiring African researchers to pursue fully funded doctoral training in infectious diseases, epidemiology, and health systems science.
With DAAD’s support and G-WAC’s academic excellence, selected scholars will gain the knowledge and global exposure needed to lead future scientific and health policy initiatives across Africa.
If you are passionate about making a real difference in global health and scientific innovation, this is your chance to join one of Africa’s leading PhD research programmes at KNUST.
FAQs About KNUST Call for PhD Scholarship Applications
1. Who can apply for the KNUST G-WAC PhD Scholarship 2025?
Applicants from Ghana and other African countries with a Master’s degree in biological or health sciences may apply.
2. What does the scholarship cover?
It covers tuition fees, monthly stipend, research allowance, and travel support.
3. What is the deadline for applications?
The deadline for submission is October 31, 2025.
4. How can I apply?
Applications can be submitted via the G-WAC or KNUST Graduate Studies portals with all required documents.
5. Is English proficiency required?
Yes, applicants must prove English language ability if their previous studies were not in English.
