Call for Applications: Cancer Research Training Program in Tanzania

The MUHAS-ORCI-UCSF Cancer Collaboration is leading the Cancer Research Training Program in Tanzania, with funding from the U.S. National Institutes of Health. The goal of this program is to train and mentor a cadre of motivated and passionate investigators in Tanzania who are capable of conceptualizing, achieving funding for, implementing, analyzing and publishing original research focused on cancer.

Program Specifications

• The selected candidates will be enrolled in a sandwich doctoral degree program at MUHAS and will spend one-year completing rigorous methodologic coursework at UCSF. Following completion of the year of coursework at UCSF, the scholars will return to Tanzania to implement mentored research projects as required for completion of the PhD thesis requirements. When possible, the scholars will attach to ongoing research projects at MUHAS, ORCI, and/or UCSF.
• In addition to the coursework requirements, the scholars will be expected to adhere to the additional metrics for successful completion of the degree program as set forth by the PhD Program at MUHAS, including: publication of four papers in peer-reviewed journals; provision of mentorship to at least one junior researcher; participation in teaching of at least one course at MUHAS related to cancer research; and dissemination of results through presentation in at least two international conferences. Moreover, the scholars will be required to present abstract(s) during the annual MUHAS Scientific Conference or other conferences in Tanzania.

Benefits

• This program will support two health professionals to participate in a 4-year PhD program. The Cancer Research Training Program PhD scholars will benefit from:
  • Instruction in research methodology that is individualized to the learner and pertinent to cancer control continuum;
  • Development of a research project with a cancer focus based upon a priority need in East Africa;
  • Provision of strong, interdisciplinary and longitudinal mentorship; and
  • Guidance in career development to support short and long-term career goals and to promote a transition to independence.
  • The successful applicant will receive a competitive stipend, laptop, and book allowance. Support for travel and lodging costs for the year at UCSF will be provided.

Eligibility Criteria

• Hold a master’s degree from a recognized higher learning institution (as per Tanzania Commission for Universities) with exceptional performance in a cancer-related field such oncology, radiology, pathology, surgery, public health, epidemiology, etc.
• Aptitude and intent to become a future leader in cancer research.
• Demonstrated fluency in both spoken and written English language.
• Experience in a cancer-related field or research is preferred, but not required.
• A commitment to remain in Tanzania and seek employment as a cancer researcher following completion of training.

Selection Criteria

• Applicants will be scored based on the following criteria:
  • Relevant academic transcripts and certificates
  • Rationale for applying to the program
  • Relevance of proposed cancer research interests
  • Commitment and plans to practice research long-term
  • Previous professional and research experience
  • References

Application Requirements

• Application cover letter: This letter should include your name, position, institution, email, telephone number, and a short statement summarizing your intent to apply to the PhD program. Applicants should summarize research interests in this letter.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• NIH-format biosketch
• Two letters of recommendation: These letters should include telephone numbers, addresses and e-mail addresses of the referees.
• Personal statement: This statement should outline how this PhD program aligns with your training and career thus far and how it will advance your long-term career goals.
• Research summary: Please describe your cancer research interests. In addition, describe your proposed topic of research that you would explore during your PhD program as well as research questions the applicant would prefer to address.

For more information, visit MUHAS.