Poliomyelitis Research Foundation (PRF) Bursary
Poliomyelitis Research Foundation
The Poliomyelitis Research Foundation funds South African postgraduate students conducting research into virology. Bursaries support BSc Honours, MSc and PhD candidates, with awards running for the length of the qualification, and are administered through the National Institute for Communicable Diseases.
- Amount
- Postgraduate research bursary
- Deadline
- 15 September 2026
- Duration
- Up to 2 years for MSc, up to 3 years for PhD
- Renewable
- Yes
Eligible Fields of Study
Poliomyelitis Research Foundation supports students in the following disciplines
Eligibility Requirements
- ✓ South African citizen
- ✓ Registered or accepted for BSc (Hons), MSc or PhD study
- ✓ Research focused on virology
- ✓ Registered at a recognised South African university
- ✓ Strong academic record
- ✓ Supervisor support for the proposed research
What's Included
- ✓ Postgraduate research funding
- ✓ Support for the full duration of the qualification
- ✓ Association with the virology research community
- ✓ Research capacity development
How to Apply
Steps to complete your Poliomyelitis Research Foundation bursary application
- 1
Download the PRF Final Bursary Form from the PRF website
- 2
Complete the form together with your research supervisor
- 3
Email the completed form to prf@nicd.ac.za
- 4
Use the subject line 'PRF Bursary Application' followed by your level: BSc (Hons), MSc or PhD
- 5
Submit before the relevant closing date
Required Documents
- 📄 Completed PRF Final Bursary Form
- 📄 Certified ID copy
- 📄 Full academic transcripts
- 📄 Research proposal
- 📄 Supervisor's letter of support
- 📄 Curriculum vitae
Frequently Asked Questions
- When are the PRF bursary closing dates?
- The PRF runs two application rounds a year, closing on 28 February and 15 September. The September 2026 round is the one currently open.
- What research does the PRF fund?
- Funding is specifically for postgraduate research into virology at BSc (Hons), MSc and PhD level.
- How long does the bursary run?
- The award depends on your qualification level. Masters students receive up to 2 years of support and PhD students up to 3 years, barring exceptional circumstances.
- How do I submit my application?
- Email the completed PRF Final Bursary Form to prf@nicd.ac.za with 'PRF Bursary Application' and your study level in the subject line.
Ready to apply?
Applications close on 15 September 2026
Apply on Poliomyelitis Research Foundation's official siteNeed help? Contact Poliomyelitis Research Foundation:
Email: prf@nicd.ac.za
Information verified 2026-07-22. Always confirm details on the funder's official website before applying.
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