An independent institute for Africa-related research
The Africa Interdisciplinary Research Institute (AfIRI) is an independent, not-for-profit organization that brings together researchers interested in multi- and interdisciplinary work focused on sub-Saharan Africa in particular and Africa as a whole.
Our mission
AfIRI supports researchers in the Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, Health Sciences and other disciplines by undertaking, facilitating, coordinating and disseminating their innovative, cutting-edge Africa-related research.
Our vision
To be a global centre for excellence, building a multi- and interdisciplinary community of researchers interested in Africa-related research.
A community across borders
Our community of researchers works both independently and with institutes of higher education, scientific societies and other institutions inside and outside Africa. We are strongly committed to fostering an environment where innovative researchers from different institutions and countries carry out Africa-related projects across disciplines.
We manage, support and provide the foundations for Africa-oriented research, and we connect African researchers and academics in the diaspora to advance north-south and south-south collaboration.
Our services
Research Consultancy and Professional Services
AfIRI provides research consultancy and professional support services to individuals, research groups and institutions across disciplines. Its services span the research project lifecycle, from research conceptualisation, design and methodology to project coordination, data collection, transcription, translation, data management and analysis. The Institute also provides specialised support in grant proposal development, academic writing and manuscript preparation and editing. In addition, AfIRI offers coaching and leadership development programmes to strengthen the professional competencies and leadership capacities of researchers and other professionals.
Research Engagement and Capacity Development
AfIRI provides platforms for postgraduate students and early-career researchers to engage in research dissemination, knowledge exchange and professional development. Through seminars, workshops, webinars and conferences, the Institute creates opportunities for researchers to present their work, receive scholarly feedback, engage with emerging ideas and build professional networks. AfIRI also organises mentoring programmes, independently and in collaboration with other institutions, to strengthen research and career development competencies. These programmes address areas such as research development, grant proposal writing, academic publishing and manuscript preparation.
Research Funding Opportunities
AfIRI provides and administers internal research grants to support eligible researchers whose research interests and proposed projects align with the Institute's priorities. These funding schemes are intended to promote research, support career development and strengthen research capacity. In addition, AfIRI identifies and disseminates information on external scholarships, research grants and other funding opportunities offered by international organisations, foundations and funding agencies. Through these initiatives, the Institute supports researchers and students in accessing financial resources for their academic and professional development.