The Poliomyelitis Research Foundation Bursaries aim to promote advancements in virology, with a focus on research that contributes to the betterment of public health.

Established in the late 1940s, the foundation has a rich history of supporting promising researchers, nurturing future generations of virologists.

These bursaries offer financial assistance to students pursuing postgraduate qualifications in virology, specifically:

  1. BSc (Hons): Applicants must have completed their BSc degree with a minimum of 60%.
  2. Master’s: Open to individuals holding a BSc (Hons) degree with at least 60%.
  3. PhD: Applicants with a Master’s degree and a minimum 60% average are eligible.

Poliomyelitis Research Foundation Bursaries Application Form

Applications are accepted twice annually, with closing dates on 28th February and 15th September. 

The application process for the Poliomyelitis Research Foundation bursaries is entirely online, and all relevant documents must be submitted through the PRF website.

Here’s a breakdown of what to expect when filling out the application form:

  1. General Information: This section includes your personal details, contact information, and academic institution.
  2. Current Qualifications: Provide details of your completed degrees and academic transcripts.
  3. Relevant Work Experience (optional): List any relevant research or work experience you possess.
  4. Project Details: This is the heart of your application. Clearly outline your proposed research project, including its title, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.
  5. Supervisor: Provide details of your academic supervisor who supports your research proposal.
  6. Funding Request: Specify the amount of financial assistance you require for your studies.
  7. Supporting Documents: Attach your academic transcripts, supervisor’s letter of support, and any other relevant documents as requested.

After completing your application form, submit it through email to: [email protected].

Use the phrase “PRF Bursary Application”, followed by “BSc (Hons)” or “MSc” or “PhD” as the email subject.

The Poliomyelitis Research Foundation Bursaries Requirements

For you to be considered for the PRF Bursaries, you must meet all of the following criteria:

  1. Be a South African citizen or permanent resident.
  2. Pursue a postgraduate qualification in virology at a recognized South African university.
  3. Demonstrate academic excellence, with a minimum average of 60% in your previous degree.
  4. Have a well-defined research proposal focused on virology with clear objectives and methodologies.
  5. Secure the support of a qualified academic supervisor.

The Poliomyelitis Research Foundation Bursaries Closing Date

Applications for the PRF Bursaries are accepted twice in an academic year, with the closing dates being:

  1. 28th February, 2024
  2. 15th September, 2023

Remember to submit your application form along with all the necessary documents in advance of the deadline to ensure your application gets sufficient processing time.

For any queries regarding the PRF Bursaries, you can contact the foundation at  011 555 0395 or email them through the following address: [email protected].