Discover the Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit (MARS) 2026, focused on advancing scientific research in women’s health and reproductive care. Learn about eligibility, abstract submissions, awards, and how African researchers can participate before the 30 June 2026 deadline.
Introduction: Advancing Africa’s Research Capacity
The Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit (MARS) 2026 continues its mission to build and strengthen research capacity across the African scientific community. In 2026, the summit places special emphasis on “The Role of Scientific Research in Women’s Health and Reproductive Care,” addressing a critical need in public health and sustainable development.
MARS has evolved into one of the continent’s leading platforms for elevating African scientific voices, promoting excellence in research, and supporting emerging and established researchers across diverse STEM fields.
A Collaborative Effort with Leading Scientific Institutions
MARS 2026 is supported by respected continental and global institutions, including:
- African Union Scientific-Technical and Research Commission (AU-STRC)
- African Reproductive Care Society (ARCS)
- Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE)
This collaboration ensures strong scientific mentorship, rigorous review processes, and opportunities for long-term research development.
Empowering African Researchers Through MARS Awards
A major highlight of the summit is the MARS Awards, designed to empower young and women researchers who are driving innovation in STEM. These awards recognize outstanding achievements in two categories:
Award Categories
- Best Young African Researcher
- Best African Woman Researcher
The award aims to boost visibility, research impact, and opportunities for African scholars, especially those contributing to women’s health and reproductive care.
Award Benefits
Winners receive exceptional professional development opportunities, including:
- A three-month research training scholarship in India
- An invitation to attend the Merck Foundation Africa Asia Summit
These experiences equip early-career scientists with new skills, global networks, and exposure to advanced research environments.
A Platform for Knowledge Sharing and Career Development
The summit creates an inclusive platform where award winners and participants can present their research findings, exchange ideas, and build collaborations. It encourages discussions that bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and practical implementation — often described as the “know-do gap.”
MARS also provides a space for dialogue with key policymakers from ministries across Africa, including:
- Health
- Education
- Science and Technology
- Information
- Gender
These conversations help shape policies that strengthen STEM participation, support innovation, and promote gender equity in scientific fields.
Abstract Submission Details
Researchers are invited to submit abstracts related to the following themes:
- Women’s Health
- Infertility and Reproductive Care
Eligible applicants include:
- Final-year PhD students
- Young investigators
- Medical doctors in postgraduate medical fellowship programmes
Applicants should be primarily based at African universities or research institutes, though collaborations across and outside Africa are welcome.
Submission Deadline:
30 June 2026
Where to Submit:
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.merck-foundation.com
Why MARS 2026 Matters for Africa’s Future
MARS plays a crucial role in nurturing Africa’s scientific ecosystem by:
- Supporting youth participation in STEM
- Promoting women’s leadership in research
- Encouraging locally relevant scientific solutions
- Strengthening health systems through evidence-based approaches
- Fostering collaboration across African and international institutions
By focusing on women’s health and reproductive care, MARS 2026 reinforces the importance of research that has direct impact on communities, families, and future generations.
How to Participate
1. Prepare Your Abstract
Ensure your research topic aligns with women’s health or reproductive care.
2. Submit Your Application
Send your abstract and required documents to [email protected].
3. Stay Tuned for Announcements
Shortlisted candidates and winners will receive updates directly from the Merck Foundation team.
🔍 Learn More About MARS 2026
Stay connected with more global opportunities in innovation, sustainability, and social impact:
Join our WhatsApp Channel: Click here to join
Join our Telegram Channel: Click here to join
