Poliomyelitis Research Foundation (PRF) bursary

Open for applications Closes 15 September 2026

Study fields: Medical

WHAT FIELDS OF STUDY DOES THE PRF BURSARY PROGRAMME COVER?

The Poliomyelitis Research Foundation (PRF) is inviting students to apply for their bursary programme, for the 2026 / 2027 academic year.

Bursaries will be awarded for Postgraduate studies (BSc (Hons), MSc and PhD), for Research into Virology.

WHAT DOES THE PRF BURSARY PROGRAMME COVER?

The duration of the bursary award will depend on the level of the qualification being pursued: Masters students will receive up to 2 years of bursary support and PhD students will receive up to 3 years of bursary support (unless an exceptional circumstance).

Scholars may not change their research project, unless approved by the PRF.

WHAT IS THE ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR POLIOMYELITIS RESEARCH FOUNDATION (PRF) BURSARIES?

Applicants must satisfy the following minimum entry criteria before applying (please note that failure to satisfy all the requirements will lead to your application not being considered):

  • Preference will be given to South African citizens or permanent residents in South Africa
  • You must be registered for a postgraduate degree (BScHons, MSc and PhD), for research into Virology
  • You must have achieved a minimum overall average of 60% in your most recent studies

HOW CAN I APPLY FOR PRF BURSARIES?

Applications must be submitted by following these steps:
Step 1: complete an online application:

Step 2: upload clear copies of the following supporting documentation along with your application (the submission of these documents is compulsory – if any items are missing, your application may be disqualified):
NEW applicants:

  • Curriculum Vitae, including publications (maximum 2 pages)
  • Academic Record
  • Proof of Degree Registration
  • Completed Grants Application Signatory Form (.pdf)
  • MSc applicants: Proof of BSc completion
  • PhD applicants: Proof of MSc completion
  • Any other additional information to support your application (graphs must be submitted in a PDF doc as an annex)

RENEWAL:

  • MSc applicants: completed Grants Application Signatory Form (.pdf)
  • PhD applicants: Supervisor Progress Report
  • Any other additional information to support your application (graphs must be submitted in a PDF doc as an annex)

Step 3: download and complete the PRF Final Bursary Form and submit it via email to: prf@nicd.ac.za
(Insert the words “PRF Bursary Application”, followed by “BSc (Hons)” or “MSc” or “PhD” in the email subject line)

WHAT IS THE CLOSING DATE FOR PRF BURSARIES?

28 February 2026 and 15 September 2026.
(Applications submitted after this date will not be accepted – please apply before the closing date to ensure your application is considered.)

HOW CAN I CONTACT THE BURSARY PROVIDER?

For any queries related to this bursary programme, please contact the Poliomyelitis Research Foundation (PRF) directly:
Tel: 011 555 0395
Email: prf@nicd.ac.za

WHAT DOES THE PRF DO?

The Poliomyelitis Research Foundation (PRF) was founded in the late 1940’s, as a non-governmental organisation to conduct research into the poliomyelitis (polio) disease. The incorporated association is committed to supporting research initiatives aimed at developing Medical Virology within South Africa.

The Foundation is governed by senior virologists, members of the industrial sector, members of the business sector and  Scientific Advisory Panel from university virology heads of departments across South Africa.

Each year the PRF provide funding for deserving students, in the form of bursaries, research grants, travel grants and fellowships. From the years 1977 to 2016, the Foundation has granted over R144 million in research funds, of which over R44 million has been for bursary grants.

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