The Poliomyelitis Research Foundation (PRF) is now inviting applications for its 2026 postgraduate bursary programme, supporting South African citizens and permanent residents pursuing Honours, Master’s, or PhD research in Virology. New applications are open until 15 September 2025, with renewal submissions accepted on 28 February 2026.

About the Bursary Provider

The PRF is a nonprofit organisation founded in the late 1940s that invests in virology research and capacity building. Governed by leading virologists and industrial stakeholders, the Foundation has awarded over R144 million in research funding, including more than R44 million in bursaries to date.

Fields Covered

The bursary supports postgraduate studies in Virology only, across these qualification levels:

  • BSc (Hons) in Virology
  • MSc in Virology
  • PhD in Virology

Expenses Covered

The PRF bursary provides full support through:

  • Tuition and/or research costs for the duration of your approved project
  • Up to 1 year for BSc (Hons); up to 2 years for MSc; and up to 3 years for PhD research support (extensions only in exceptional circumstances) 

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet all of the following:

  • South African citizen or permanent resident (limited exceptions for others)
  • Must be registered (or accepted) for BSc (Hons), MSc, or PhD in Virology
  • Minimum academic average of 60% in most recent qualification
  • Not already employed full-time
  • BSc (Hons) applicants: preference for previously disadvantaged candidates
  • Your research project must not be changed without prior PRF approval

How to Apply

Applications are submitted in three steps:

  1. Complete the appropriate online application form (BSc Hons, MSc, or PhD; new or renewal) available via the PRF website.
  2. Upload required supporting documents:
    • Curriculum Vitae (max 2 pages), academic record/transcript, proof of current registration
    • Signed Grants Application Form (PDF), proof of BSc completion (if applying for MSc) or MSc completion (for PhD)
    • For renewals: supervisor progress report and signed form
  3. Download and submit the Final Bursary Form via email to prf@nicd.ac.za using subject “PRF Bursary Application – [Level]”.

Closing Date

15 September 2025 for new applications and 28 February 2026 for renewal applications. Late submissions will not be accepted.

Contact the Bursary Provider

Poliomyelitis Research Foundation
Tel: 011 555 0395
Email: prf@nicd.ac.za
Website: prf.ac.za

1. Who is eligible to apply?
South African citizens or permanent residents pursuing postgraduate study in Virology (Honours, MSc or PhD) with ≥60% average, not employed full‑time.
2. Does the bursary cover PhD studies?
Yes—PRF supports up to 3 years of PhD research funding; MSc for up to 2 years; Honours for 1 year, extendable only on exceptional basis.
3. What research areas qualify?
Only research focused on **Virology** (e.g., virus biology, vaccine development, viral diseases) is eligible.
4. Can full-time employees apply?
No—PRF bursaries are not available to individuals on full-time salary employment.
5. When are applications due?
New applicants must apply by **15 September 2025**, and current recipients seeking renewal apply by **28 February 2026**.
6. How do I apply?
Complete the correct online application form (level and type), upload required documents, and submit the PRF Final Bursary Form via email to prf@nicd.ac.za.
7. What documents are required?
Certified ID, CV, academic record, proof of registration, signed grants form, proof of degree completion (for MSc/PhD), and supervisor report for renewals.
8. Can I switch my research project midway?
No—not without prior approval from PRF; project scope must remain consistent with original application.
9. Are undergraduates eligible?
No—only postgraduate levels are funded. However, Honours (BSc Hons) qualifies as postgraduate level.
10. Who can I contact for assistance?
Email prf@nicd.ac.za or call 011 555 0395 for queries about eligibility, documents, or application process.