About Us

The Floret Center for Advanced Genomics and Bioinformatics Research is a not-for-profit research institution committed to advancing genomics, bioinformatics and computational life sciences in Africa. Through research, mentorship and collaboration, we support emerging scientists in conducting computational research that address relevant biological, health and development challenges.

We invite motivated recent graduates and postgraduate students at Master’s and PhD levels to apply for Cohort 3 of FESIP.

Discover the experiences of our alumni through reflections from Cohort 1 and Cohort 2.

Programme Overview

FESIP is a 42-week, research-focused bioinformatics internship that focuses on computational research and developing scientific manuscripts for publication. Participants undertake defined research projects under sustained mentorship, applying bioinformatics and computational approaches to investigate biological questions and generate publishable research findings.

A central objective of the programme is for participants to lead their own research projects and develop manuscripts as lead authors, to publish their research in peer-reviewed scientific journals. Participants develop research questions, conduct literature reviews, analyse data, interpret findings, write manuscripts, and critically review and revise.

The programme combines supervised research, independent work, journal clubs, research meetings and scientific writing to support rigorous research and tangible scholarly outputs.

Areas of Research

Infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, drug discovery, evidence synthesis, selected applied research projects in agriculture, nutrition and biotechnology.

Key Benefits

• Sustained mentorship in computational biology research.
• Opportunities to design and lead individual research projects, including data analysis and interpretation.
• Lead-author manuscript development and submission to peer-reviewed scientific journals, with publication as a key programme objective.
• Experience in scientific writing, research presentations and communication of findings.
• Research collaboration and preparation for postgraduate study and academic careers.

Who Should Apply?

Eligible applicants include recent Bachelor’s graduates and current Master’s or PhD students in bioinformatics, computational biology, genomics, genetics, microbiology, biochemistry, biotechnology, biomedical sciences, pharmacy, veterinary medicine, agriculture, nutrition, statistics, computer science, engineering and related disciplines.

Applicants should demonstrate:

• A strong interest in computational research and one or more programme research areas.
• Motivation to lead a research project and develop a scientific manuscript.
• Critical thinking, problem-solving, communication and collaboration skills.
• Integrity, perseverance and openness to constructive feedback.
• Relevant foundational knowledge and a willingness to undertake sustained independent research.

Prior experience applying bioinformatics or computational methods to research is a strong advantage.

Participation Requirements

Participants must be prepared to:

• Commit to the full 42-week programme.
• Maintain reliable internet access and a computer suitable for computational research.
• Attend scheduled research meetings, journal clubs and mentorship sessions.
• Conduct independent research and complete agreed project milestones.
• Take an active role in research design, literature review, data analysis, interpretation and manuscript preparation.
• Lead the development and revision of their research manuscript.
• Meet agreed reporting and submission deadlines.
• Maintain accurate research records and uphold research ethics, data integrity and professional conduct.

Selection Process

Selection will consider applicants’ research interests, motivation, relevant background, capacity for independent research, availability and alignment with feasible projects and mentor capacity. Shortlisted applicants may be invited to complete a research-readiness exercise and interview.

Programme Details

Duration: 42 weeks
Mode: Virtual
Start date: November 2026 (Exact date to be communicated to selected applicants)

Selected projects under the Local Research Translation Track may involve practical activities, subject to confirmed arrangements, location and participant suitability.

Programme Fee

Participation in FESIP is FREE.