The African Astronomical Society (AfAS) invites interested candidates to apply for its AfAS MSc and PhD Prizes for the year 2025. Established by the AfAS Early Career Science Sub-committee (ECSS), the inaugural AfAS MSc and PhD Prizes aim to recognise and reward the outstanding accomplishments achieved by academically talented African students who defended their Master’s or PhD thesis in the field of astronomy within the past year.
- A total of eight prizes (four MSc and four PhD students) will be shared across four African regions (North, South, East, and West Africa)
- A cash prize of 400 USD for an MSc and USD 800 for a PhD will be awarded.
Eligibility
To qualify for the award, the candidate should fulfil the following conditions;
- The candidate must be a citizen of an African country.
- Candidates must have conducted their research degree in Astronomy at an academic or scientific research institute in Africa.
- Candidates must have successfully completed their degree (graduated or received a notification from their university) within a year of the call, announced on 25 September 2025, for the MSc and PhD Prize. Theses which are submitted or in preparation but not yet defended are not eligible.
How to Apply
All applications must be submitted online by uploading the following documents to the AfAS submission form:
- A detailed CV including a list of scientific publications (maximum three pages) and contact details of two academic referees.
- A one-page summary of the most important publications, if applicable.
- A thesis summary (maximum two pages) including (but not limited to) the research title, the scientific rationale, the most significant findings and conclusions.
- A motivation letter addressed to the AfAS Science Committee explaining why the applicant deserves the prize.
- Copies of official academic records (transcripts).
- A certified copy of the most recent completed degree.
Additional Information
- Applicants should also arrange for two academic referees to send signed recommendation letters directly to Dr Sthabile Kolwa by 25 December 2025. At least one letter must be from the thesis advisor who is familiar with the applicant’s research work.
- Incomplete applications or files submitted after the deadline, as well as applications that do not meet the eligibility requirements, will not be considered.
- If you are submitting any supporting documents in your local language, you must upload at least an informal translation into English.
Estimated Timeline
- Opening date of the call: 25 September 2025
- Closing date of the call: 25 December 2025
- Applications review: January to February 2026
- Notification of successful applicants (to be announced at the AfAS Annual Conference): March 2026
- Payments to be made by 31 March 2026
For further information, click here.
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