Are you a South African student planning to further study genomics, bioinformatics, or biotechnology? The CPGR Bursary could help you fund your postgraduate degree and gain real-world research experience.

CPGR Bursary South Africa 2025

The Centre for Proteomic and Genomic Research (CPGR) offers this bursary to support postgraduate students in South Africa. It is available for BTech, BSc Honours, MSc, and PhD studies in genomics and life sciences fields.

Eligible study fields include:

  • Bioinformatics
  • Biological Science
  • Biotechnology
  • Genetics or Human Genetics
  • Medical Biochemistry
  • Medical Bioscience
  • Microbiology or Biochemistry
  • Molecular or Cell Biology

What Does the Bursary Cover?

The bursary covers full or partial registration fees, tuition, and prescribed study materials. The support continues for your degree if you pass all your subjects and meet the bursary conditions.

Work-Back Obligation

After graduating, you must work at CPGR for one year for each year you receive funding, and this ensures you gain practical experience while contributing to key research projects in South Africa.

How to Apply

Applications are completed online on the CPGR website. You must fill in the form and upload the required documents.

Required documents:

  • Certified academic transcripts
  • CV
  • Two reference letters
  • Research proposal (for MSc and PhD applicants)
  • Proof of South African citizenship
  • Proof of financial need (optional)

Please read the guidelines carefully before applying. You can find them on the CPGR website or request them directly from CPGR.

Who Qualifies?

To apply for the CPGR Bursary, you must:

  • Be a South African citizen aged 18 to 29
  • Be enrolled in or applying for postgraduate studies in one of the approved fields
  • Have a strong academic record
  • Show genuine interest in genomics, proteomics, or bioinformatics
  • (Optional) Demonstrate financial need

Application Deadline

Applications usually close in March or April each year. Check the CPGR website for the current year’s deadline. Late applications are not accepted.

Contact Information

If you have any questions, contact CPGR at +27 (0) 21 671 9000 or use the contact form on their official website.

CPGR Bursary FAQs
What does the CPGR Bursary cover?

The bursary may cover full or partial tuition, registration fees, and prescribed learning materials for the entire study period, depending on your academic progress.

Who qualifies for the CPGR Bursary?

South African citizens aged 18–29 enrolled in or applying for postgraduate degrees in approved fields such as biotechnology, bioinformatics, or genetics may apply.

What are the eligible fields of study?

Fields include Bioinformatics, Biotechnology, Genetics, Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, and related life sciences.

Is there a work-back obligation after graduation?

Yes. You must work at CPGR for one year for every year you received funding. This gives you valuable research experience.

Can I apply if I am already studying?

Yes, students already enrolled in a relevant postgraduate program at a South African university can apply if they meet the other criteria.

Does the bursary cover international students?

No. The CPGR Bursary is only available to South African citizens.

Do I need to submit a research proposal?

Yes. MSc and PhD applicants are required to include a detailed research proposal with their application.

What documents must I upload?

You must upload academic transcripts, a CV, two reference letters, proof of citizenship, and a research proposal if required.

When is the application deadline?

The closing date is usually in March or April each year. Check the CPGR website for the exact date.

How do I apply for the CPGR Bursary?

You can apply online via the CPGR website by completing the application form and uploading the required documents.