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Africa’s future scientific leaders
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Africa’s future scientific leaders
Together with the Royal Society, we hosted 30 early career scientists for the Future Leaders – African Independent Research (FLAIR) induction workshop on 4-5 April in Naivasha, Kenya.
The picturesque environment in Naivasha provided a space for the postdocs to network and plan their research which seeks to address the challenges facing the continent.
The research, which will be conducted over a period of two years, ranges from providing renewable energy solutions and climate change, to tackling food security and targeting health and environmental problems that are most acute for people living in African countries. Each postdoc presented their research at the meeting.
The event kicked off with opening addresses from Professor Nelson Torto, The AAS Executive Director and Lesley Miles, the Chief Strategy Officer for the Royal Society who said the 30 had been selected for the quality of their proposals and science, which will be crucial in solving some of the challenges facing our continent.
They encouraged the scientists to remain laser focused on contributing finding solutions to continental and global challenges.
The postdocs also learnt about other programmes and funding opportunities at The AAS and the Royal Society and mapped plans of how they want to shape their fellowships, promote collaboration and be supported over the two years.
In turn, The AAS and the Royal Society shared their expectations and the support they will provide to the postdocs during the two years of their fellowship.
The FLAIR trainees will receive support through The AAS Mentorship scheme in the duration of their fellowship. This scheme will pair them with an experienced professional who will guide them on how to develop their careers.
Other sessions at the event included one for science communication to encourage the scientists to proactively communicate their research.
Learn more about the 30 postdocs