MUHAS–ORCI–UCSF Cancer Research Training Program

MUHAS–ORCI–UCSF Cancer Research Training Program

The Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), in collaboration with the Ocean Road Cancer Institute (ORCI) and the University of California San Francisco (UCSF), implements a cancer research collaboration aimed at reducing the cancer burden in Tanzania. This initiative focuses on research, education, and capacity building to strengthen cancer control efforts in the country.

The MUHAS–ORCI–UCSF Cancer Collaboration leads the Cancer Research Training Program in Tanzania with funding from the United States National Institutes of Health (NIH). The program is designed to train and mentor motivated investigators capable of conceptualizing, securing funding for, implementing, analyzing, and publishing original cancer-focused research.

Program Objective

The primary objective of this training program is to develop a cadre of skilled and independent cancer researchers in Tanzania. The program targets clinicians who are passionate about cancer research and aspire to become future leaders in the field.

Training Opportunities and Benefits

Selected scholars will benefit from a comprehensive and structured research training experience, including:

• Individualized instruction in research methodology relevant to the cancer control continuum through the Designing Clinical Research course (EPI 150.03) or similar coursework
• Development of a cancer-focused research project addressing priority needs in East Africa
• Strong interdisciplinary and longitudinal mentorship from MUHAS, ORCI, and UCSF faculty
• Career development guidance to support both short-term and long-term professional goals and facilitate transition to research independence

UCSF-Based Training Component

As part of the program, scholars will participate in a two-month intensive training course at UCSF focused on Designing Clinical Research (EPI 150.03). Participants will be enrolled in the course and will complete rigorous methodological coursework covering topics such as epidemiology, research question development, measurement, study design, sample size determination, clinical trials, causality, qualitative methods, and statistics.

Scholars will also engage in small group discussions to review lecture materials, course readings, and to receive feedback on individual research protocol development. All participants will complete training in the responsible conduct of research, actively participate in research design and analysis, and gain exposure to primary data collection.

Mentorship Structure

Each scholar will be paired with both UCSF-based and Tanzanian mentors according to specialty and shared research interests. Mentors and scholars will engage in weekly mentoring sessions to review and refine research protocols developed during the course. The mentorship model is designed to foster long-term mentoring relationships throughout the two-year research implementation period.

Financial Support

Successful applicants will receive funding support covering:

• Course fees
• Travel to and from UCSF, subject to USA visa approval
• Accommodation during the training period
• Stipends for personal upkeep

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Possession of a clinical degree such as MD, DDS, MMed, Nursing, MDent, or equivalent
• Demonstrated aptitude and commitment to becoming a future leader in cancer research
• Willingness to dedicate time to attend all coursework, seminars, and mentoring meetings
• Demonstrated fluency in spoken and written English
• Computer proficiency, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Familiarity with data storage and analysis tools such as SPSS and/or STATA is an added advantage

Selection Criteria

Applications will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Strength and relevance of proposed cancer research interests
• Long-term commitment to conducting research
• Experience in cancer-related clinical work or research, which is preferred but not mandatory
• Demonstrated strength in clinical practice, leadership, community service, and professional training
• Quality of references provided by faculty from the applicant’s home institution

Application Requirements

Interested applicants must submit the following documents by email:

1. Application cover letter including name, current position, institution, email address, telephone number, intent to apply, and a summary of research interests
2. Updated Curriculum Vitae or NIH-format Biosketch
3. Two letters of recommendation, including contact details of referees, with at least one letter from institutional leadership confirming approval and release from clinical duties
4. A personal statement outlining how the program aligns with the applicant’s career path and long-term goals, limited to one page
5. A cancer-focused research concept note describing the proposed research topic, relevant skills to be gained, and expected benefits from UCSF coursework or faculty exposure, limited to two pages

Application Deadline

All applications must be submitted by February 20, 2026.

Selection Process and Timeline

Applications will be reviewed based on submitted materials, recommendation letters, and the strength of proposed cancer research ideas. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for online interviews in March 2026. Final selection results will be announced by April 02, 2026.

How to Apply

Applicants must submit their applications via email to [email protected] and copy [email protected]. All application materials must be combined into a single PDF document. Applications that do not follow this format will be disqualified.