Master's Research Thesis Support in Epilepsy Research (2026/2027 Cohort)

About the programme The Makerere University College of Health Sciences, in collaboration with Case Western Reserve University and Mbarara University of Science and Technology, is pleased to announce a Call for Applications for Master's Research Thesis Support under the project titled "Self-management Intervention for Reducing Epilepsy Burden Among Adult Ugandans with Epilepsy." The project is funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) and aims to strengthen epilepsy research capacity and self-management interventions in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Epilepsy is one of the most common chronic neurological conditions in the world, and it imposes a heavy burden on patients, families and health systems in Uganda. Many people with epilepsy face stigma, limited access to diagnosis and treatment, and significant economic and social consequences. Addressing this burden requires not only better clinical care but also a strong local research base to understand the epidemiology of the disease, test interventions and improve the quality of life of those affected. This programme is designed to build exactly that research capacity.

Successful trainees will receive support to complete their Master's research theses within an established, mentored research programme and will gain additional training that goes beyond their core coursework. By supporting theses in a carefully defined set of disciplines, the programme draws in a multidisciplinary group of students who can approach epilepsy from clinical, public health, nursing and basic science perspectives.

Eligible programmes of study Applications are invited from eligible Master's students pursuing studies in: - MMed Internal Medicine - MMed Paediatrics - MMed Surgery and Neurosurgery - MMed Psychiatry - MMed Family Medicine - Master of Public Health - Master of Health Services Research - MSc Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics - Nursing - Basic Sciences (Physiology, Anatomy, Biochemistry, and related disciplines) Applicants should have completed at least one year of their Master's training and demonstrate a strong interest in epilepsy, neurological diseases, patient care, prevention and research.

Research concept areas Research concepts are encouraged in areas such as: - Epidemiology of epilepsy and associated risk factors. - Quality of life, morbidity, mortality, genetics and preventive measures related to epilepsy. - Childhood epilepsy and associated factors. - Epilepsy interventions and rehabilitation. - Other epilepsy-related research topics.

Training provided Successful trainees will also receive additional training in: - Bioethics - Good Clinical Practice (GCP) - Behavioural sciences research - Data and statistical analysis - Research management This complementary training ensures that fellows not only complete a thesis but also acquire the professional competencies expected of a researcher working in clinical and health services research.

Application requirements Applicants should submit: - An application letter. - A detailed curriculum vitae. - Two recommendation letters from professional referees or mentors. - A two-page concept note or an approved full proposal addressing epilepsy-related research. Applications should be submitted electronically to the Administrator, Epilepsy Project, at smireb2@gmail.com.

For inquiries and guidance on concept development, contact: - Prof. Mark Kaddumukasa - kaddumark@yahoo.co.uk (Makerere University) - Ms. Josephine N. Najjuma - najjumajosephine@yahoo.co.uk (Mbarara University)

Deadline The application deadline is 5 July 2026. Eligible candidates and interested colleagues are encouraged to share this opportunity widely.