We are pleased to announce the start of the 2026 recruitment for the master’s in Mathematical Epidemiology (MathEpi) scholarship by the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) in partnership with the University of Toronto.
This 16-month intensive program is designed to equip students with advanced mathematical and statistical skills essential for addressing real-world public health challenges. The program follows the AIMS Structured Master’s format and is dedicated to training the next generation of African scientists to strengthen primary healthcare across the continent.
Program Structure
- Core Skills Development: Students develop foundational problem-solving skills, gain proficiency in programming, and acquire essential mathematical knowledge to enhance their understanding of epidemiological dynamics.
- Elective and Applied Learning: Students explore core concepts in epidemiology, computational methods, mathematical modelling, data analysis, and statistics. They apply these skills to real-world challenges in infectious disease dynamics and public health intervention assessment.
- Research & Industry Internship: The final phase includes a four-month research internship starting in April 2026. Students engage in industry-linked projects and complete a research mini-thesis, evaluated by institutional and external reviewers.
Benefits
This is a fully funded scholarship opportunity. Selected scholars will receive:
- Full Scholarship: Covers tuition, accommodation, meals, and comprehensive health insurance
- Paid Internship: A paid research internship starting in April 2026
- World-Class Facilities: 24/7 access to computer labs and high-speed internet
- Career Readiness: A supportive community that nurtures excellence and ensures a rapid transition to employment, further studies, or entrepreneurship
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants MUST meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Be an African
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics, Statistics, Data Science, Computer Science, Physics, Engineering, or a closely related quantitative field
- Demonstrate a strong background in mathematics and quantitative analysis
- Show a clear interest in public health, epidemiology, or health-related research
- Programming experience in languages such as Python or R is an advantage
- Meet AIMS academic admission standards
We strongly encourage applications from females, persons with disabilities, refugees and displaced persons, and candidates from communities facing high social and economic barriers to opportunity.
Why Study at AIMS
AIMS offers a unique, world-class educational environment tailored to the needs of the continent’s brightest minds:
- Expert Instruction: Learn from a faculty of renowned local and international lecturers
- Immersive Environment: Benefit from a 24-hour residential learning experience on campus
- Collaborative Spirit: Engage in highly interactive and collaborative learning with a diverse student body from across Africa
- Technical Mastery: Develop a strong foundation in programming and scientific computing
How to Apply
Applicants are required to submit the following through the online application system:
- Completed online application form
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Statement of motivation outlining interest in mathematical epidemiology and career goals
- At least two academic or professional references
Application Deadline: March 15, 2025
Important Note: Applications must be submitted ONLY online through the AIMS application portal. Applicants are advised to complete their profiles carefully and ensure all required documents are uploaded before the application deadline. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews as part of the selection process.
This program is co-designed and implemented by African Institute for Mathematical Sciences in partnership with the University of Toronto under the Africa Health Collaborative in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation.
Frequently Asked Questions
General Program Information
It is an intensive 16-month master’s program designed to equip African scientists with advanced mathematical, statistical, and computational tools to address public health challenges and disease outbreaks across the continent
The program is a collaborative effort between the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS), the University of Toronto, and the Africa Health Collaborative (AHC), supported by the Mastercard Foundation.
The curriculum is divided into three main phases:
- Core Skills: Foundational problem-solving, programming, and mathematical knowledge.
- Elective Learning: Specialized courses in epidemiology, infectious disease dynamics, forecasting, and public health intervention assessment.
- Research & Internship: Hands-on application through a research project and industry placement.
Eligibility & Application
Applicants must be African nationals holding either a bachelor’s or master’s degree in mathematical sciences (including Statistics, Data Science, Computer Science, Physics, or Engineering) with a significant mathematical component.
The deadline for the 2026 intake is March 15, 2026.
Applications must be submitted online through the AIMS portal at www.applications.aimsric.org.
No, there is no fee to apply for the AIMS scholarship.
All queries are directed to applications@aimsric.org
Scholarship & Benefits
Successful candidates receive a full scholarship that includes:
- Tuition and academic fees.
- Accommodation and meals.
- Health insurance.
- 24/7 access to computer labs and high-speed internet.
Yes. The program includes a four-month paid internship to provide real-world experience in the health sector or research institutions.
Inclusivity & Support
Yes. AIMS strongly encourages applications from women, internally displaced persons (IDPs), refugees, and persons with disabilities.
AIMS provides a unique, immersive 24-hour residential learning environment on campus, where students and renowned international lecturers live and work together to foster collaboration.
In addition to providing access to recreational resources, AIMS, in partnership with Solid Minds Africa, prioritizes student mental health by ensuring comprehensive well-being support is readily available.
Career & Future Opportunities
Graduates are prepared for a rapid transition into:
- Employment in public health agencies and international health organizations.
- Further Studies (PhDs) in mathematical biology or epidemiology.
- Entrepreneurship in health-tech or data science ventures.
Queries & Application Support
For more enquiries, contact: applications@aimsric.org
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