NRF South Africa Research Fellowships
Research funding and fellowships provided by the National Research Foundation of South Africa, established under the National Research Foundation Act. Supports national development through research, human resource development, and the provision of research facilities.
Quick Facts
Status
Funding
Full / PartialDeadline
Varies - confirm on official site
Country
South AfricaAbout the NRF South Africa Research Fellowships
The National Research Foundation (NRF) is an independent government agency established through the National Research Foundation Act [Act No.23 of 1998]. It receives its mandate directly from this legislation to contribute to national development by promoting and supporting research, human resource development, and the provision of necessary research facilities.
The organization oversees several national research facilities across South Africa, including the iThemba Laboratory for Accelerator Based Sciences, the South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO), the South African Environmental Observation Network (SAEON), the South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity (SAIAB), and the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO).
Through its divisions such as NRF SAASTA, the agency leads science engagement programs to build a skilled labour force and an innovation culture. It provides leading edge research infrastructure platforms to enable globally competitive discovery science and train the next generation of researchers.
The NRF recognizes research excellence through annual awards in categories that include ratings linked awards and special recognition awards. Procurement and funding operations follow strict regulatory frameworks set out by the National Treasury and section 217 of the South African Constitution.
Eligible Levels
Eligible Fields
Why Choose This Scholarship?
Access to continent leading research facilities such as iThemba LABS
Support from an independent government agency established by national legislation
Opportunities to participate in globally competitive astronomy and environmental research
Engagement with national science programs and annual research excellence awards
What the Scholarship Covers
Studying in South Africa
South Africa offers advanced research infrastructure through national facilities operated by the NRF.
Eligibility Requirements
3 requirements
Documents Checklist
1 document required
How to Apply - Step by Step
Visit the official National Research Foundation website at https://www.nrf.ac.za
Navigate to the funding and information portal sections
Submit required application materials through designated NRF portals
Insider Tips & Pro Tips
Check the NRF Information Portal for specific dataset and funding releases
Review specific facility guidelines if applying for work at SAAO, SAIAB, or SARAO
Monitor the news and events section for annual NRF awards and call announcements
Important Links & Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questions - click any to expand
The NRF is an independent government agency established through the National Research Foundation Act [Act No.23 of 1998] to promote and support research in South Africa.
Associated facilities include iThemba LABS, SAAO, SAEON, SAIAB, and SARAO.
Procurement and funding are conducted in accordance with Supply Chain Management Policy, National Treasury prescripts, and section 217 of the South African Constitution.
Check the Official Website
This scholarship typically opens around Varies - confirm on official site. Confirm the current cycle and deadline on the official portal.
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