The Floret Center for Advanced Genomics and Bioinformatics Research Concludes August 2024 – July 2025 Cohort of the Floret Emerging Scientists Internship Program (FESIP)
Empowering the Next Generation of Genomics and Bioinformatics Researchers in Africa
Lagos, Nigeria – July 21, 2025 — The Floret Center for Advanced Genomics and Bioinformatics Research proudly announces the successful completion of its August 2024 – July 2025 cohort of the Floret Emerging Scientists Internship Program (FESIP) — a rigorous, research-driven training initiative designed to build capacity in genomics, bioinformatics, and translational research across Africa.
Launched on August 26, 2024, the 42-week program provided intensive, hands-on research training and mentorship to a competitively-selected group of early-career scientists. The cohort included emerging scientists who were immersed in interdisciplinary projects spanning genomics of infectious diseases pathogens, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), computational life sciences, and more.
Throughout the program, interns participated in:
- Structured orientation and weekly capacity-building workshops
- Journal clubs and e-poster presentations
- Mentored research activities aimed at publication in Q1 journals
- Collaborative project development, data analysis, and manuscript writing
- Career guidance and post-internship transition planning
Speaking at the final wrap-up session, Dr. Olabisi Flora Davies-Bolorunduro, FESIP Coordinator and Executive Director of the Floret Center, remarked:
“FESIP is not just a training platform; it’s a launchpad for scientific excellence, ethically-ground research ethics, workplace etiquette, and collaborative innovation. We are proud of what this cohort has accomplished and are excited to see many of our interns advancing into postgraduate training and impactful research roles.”
Several interns also shared reflections on their experience:
“Thank you to the Floret team for this amazing opportunity. It has transformed how I approach research and equipped me with valuable tools for my career.” — Ahmed
“The collaborative environment, mentorship quality, and opportunity to work on real-world interdisciplinary projects were outstanding. I also appreciate the support for publication and career planning.” — Ashiru
“The moral support from my supervisor, her consistent willingness to help me understand complex concepts, and the chance to interact with fellow interns and explore diverse research ideas greatly enriched my experience.” — Chioma
“I gained core bioinformatics skills and learned how to use various platforms and tools. My research and communication skills improved significantly. I also found clarity in my career path and was exposed to valuable training and endorsed opportunities.” — Lilian
“What I enjoyed most was the support from my supervisor, the teamwork, and the insightful exchanges during our journal clubs.” — Michelle
“The program design allowed me to learn so much over the year without even realizing it. The open communication with my supervisor, the freedom to choose research topics, and the qualitative mentorship—covering both research and career development—were truly commendable.” — Mustapha
“I successfully developed a well-prepared manuscript and built networks with experienced scientists, which significantly sharpened my research skills.” — Uwaisu
The Center remains committed to nurturing homegrown talent and fostering a strong network of African scientists tackling pressing biomedical challenges through cutting-edge research.
Applications for the next FESIP cohort will be announced in due course. Meanwhile, select graduates from the current cohort are expected to transition into the Center’s Research Assistant (RA) Track, contributing to ongoing projects and mentorship for future cohorts.
For media inquiries, partnership opportunities, or more information about FESIP, please contact:
Email: info@floretcenter.org Website: www.floretcenter.org
Signed:
Mallam Rabe Haruna
Acting Head, Administration and Human Resources
For: Management
The Floret Center for Advanced Genomics and Bioinformatics Research