South African students looking to pursue postgraduate studies in fields like genomics, bioinformatics, and biotechnology have a fantastic opportunity to do so for free through the CPGR Bursary.

Offered by the Centre for Proteomic and Genomic Research (CPGR), this bursary provides financial support and valuable experience for aspiring researchers.

About the CPGR Bursary

The CPGR Bursary is designed to support South African students pursuing postgraduate degrees (BTech, BSc Hons, MSc, or PhD) in the following fields:

  1. Bioinformatics
  2. Biological Science
  3. Biotechnology
  4. Genetics/Human Genetics
  5. Medical Biochemistry
  6. Medical Bioscience
  7. Microbiology/Biochemistry
  8. Molecular/Cell Biology

The bursary covers full or partial costs for registration fees, tuition fees, and prescribed materials for the entire duration of your registered degree program.

However, this only depends on you passing all your registered subjects and adhering to the terms of the bursary contract.

One unique aspect of the CPGR Bursary is its service obligation. After graduation, you’ll be required to work at CPGR for one year for every year you receive funding.

This provides you with invaluable hands-on experience and the chance to contribute to cutting-edge research at a leading South African institution.

CPGR Bursary Application Form

Applications for the CPGR Bursary are submitted online through the CPGR website.

You’ll need to complete the application form and provide details such as your academic qualifications, research proposal, and motivation for applying.

Here are some essential documents you’ll need to submit with your application:

  1. Certified copies of your academic transcripts
  2. A detailed research proposal (for MSc and PhD applicants)
  3. Two letters of reference
  4. Your CV
  5. Proof of South African citizenship
  6. Proof of financial need (optional)

Make sure to review the application guidelines carefully before submitting your application.

You can find them on the CPGR website or by contacting the CPGR directly.

CPGR Bursary Requirements

To be eligible for the CPGR Bursary, you must meet all of the following requirements:

  1. Be a South African citizen between the ages of 18 and 29
  2. Be enrolled in or applying for a postgraduate degree program in one of the eligible fields at a recognized South African university
  3. Demonstrate academic excellence with a strong academic record
  4. Have a passion for research in the field of genomics, proteomics, or bioinformatics
  5. Be able to demonstrate financial need (optional)

The CPGR Bursary Closing Date

The application deadline for the CPGR Bursary usually falls in March or April each year.

Be sure to check the CPGR website for the exact closing date for the current year. Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

For any questions or inquiries about the CPGR Bursary, you can contact the CPGR directly at +27 (0) 21 671 9000 or through the contact page on their official website.