University Of Michigan African Presidential Scholars Program (UMAPS)
Strengthening African universities is one of the most effective ways to contribute to the continent’s growth and continued excellence. The U-M African Presidential Scholars (UMAPS) program has helped retain and strengthen faculty members working in African institutions of higher education and empowered them to contribute to international academic networks and set their research agendas.
The UMAPS Program brings early career faculty from African universities to Ann Arbor, Michigan. Scholars are paired with a faculty collaborator during their stay and have full access to the University of Michigan’s (U-M) resources to further their work on a research project, an academic degree, publications, grant proposal, or other relevant activity. The program supports the development of the next generation of African scholars by integrating them into international academic networks, and promotes U-M’s international commitment to research and teaching collaborations across diverse disciplines, from engineering to literature to economics.
UMAPS Program Overview
The UMAPS program hosts two cohorts per year—August through December, and January through May—with one application round for both cohorts. Applicants will have the opportunity to indicate their preference for a particular cohort during the application process, but placement in a particular cohort (upon acceptance into the program) is not guaranteed.
Pairing Scholars with Collaborators
During their residency in Ann Arbor, scholars are paired with experienced faculty collaborators. This collaboration enhances the research and academic experience of the scholars, fostering knowledge exchange and cross-disciplinary exploration.
Access to University of Michigan Resources
UMAPS scholars gain full access to the University of Michigan’s extensive resources, including libraries, research facilities, and academic support services. This access enhances their ability to conduct in-depth research and contribute to their respective fields.
Cohort Structure and Application Process
The University Of Michigan African Presidential Scholars Program operates on a two-cohort structure, accommodating scholars from diverse academic backgrounds. The application process is straightforward, with one application round covering both cohorts. Applicants can indicate their preferred cohort, but final placement is subject to program decisions.
Two Cohorts per Year
UMAPS hosts scholars in two cohorts per year, offering flexibility for applicants to choose the cohort that aligns best with their academic commitments and goals.
Application Preferences
Applicants can express their preference for either the August-December or January-May cohort. However, it’s important to note that this preference does not guarantee placement in the chosen cohort.
Program Initiatives
UMAPS supports a range of disciplines through its program initiatives, fostering research and scholarship in critical areas. Some of these initiatives include:
African Heritage and Humanities Initiative (AHHI)
This initiative promotes research related to the arts, humanities, and interpretive social sciences. It emphasizes the dynamic process through which African cultures and histories are shaped.
African Social Research Initiative (ASRI)
ASRI encourages social science research in areas such as democratic governance, income dynamics, poverty, gender, health, and development.
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Initiative (STEM-Africa)
STEM-Africa nurtures the study of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in Africa. It aims to expand scientific knowledge and offer solutions to global challenges.
About the University of Michigan
The University of Michigan, founded in 1817 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is a leading public research institution. With annual research expenditures nearing $1.5 billion, it is recognized as one of the premier research universities in the United States.
UMAPS Program Details
Program Type and Organization
- Program Type: Postgraduate
- Organizing Institution: University of Michigan
- Country: United States
- School: University of Michigan
- Course: Not specified
- Gender: Men and Women
- Application Deadline: October 15, 2023
Benefits for Scholars
Scholars admitted to the UMAPS Program receive:
- Residency at the University of Michigan with a faculty mentor
- Round-trip airfare to Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Free housing and a stipend to cover living, health care, and research expenses
- Office or laboratory space
- Opportunity to present research to the U-M community
Qualification Requirements
To qualify for the UMAPS Program, applicants must:
- Be an early career faculty with less than ten years of teaching experience
- Currently, teaching at an African university or college
- Have support from their home institution with a letter of recommendation
- Be able to remain in residence for five months
Selection Criteria
Selection for the UMAPS Program is based on:
- The academic quality of the candidate and the proposed program
- Alignment with program initiatives
- Support from the candidate’s home institution
Preference is given to candidates from disadvantaged backgrounds, and gender equity is actively promoted.
Application Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Online application form
- Curriculum vitae
- Scholarly program/research proposal (not exceeding five pages)
- Letter of recommendation from the home institution
Incomplete applications will not be processed.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the UMAPS Program is October 15, 2023.
How to Apply
Interested candidates can apply via the University of Michigan’s online application portal. Nomination is required for applicants from certain countries. Nominating faculty members must provide an endorsement letter and commit to mentoring the candidate during the program.
Information Webinar
An information webinar is scheduled for August 31, 2023, at 08:30 AM EST. The webinar covers eligibility criteria and guidance on preparing a strong application.
For more details and registration, visit the UMAPS Information Webinar.
The University of Michigan African Presidential Scholars Program offers a unique opportunity for early-career African faculty to engage in research and collaboration at one of the United States’ leading research institutions. By fostering academic growth, knowledge exchange, and international connections, UMAPS contributes to the advancement of African scholarship.
FAQs
- Can previous fellowship recipients apply for UMAPS?
- No, previous UMAPS fellowship recipients are not eligible to apply.
- What is the UMAPS application deadline?
- The application deadline is October 15, 2023.
- Are candidates with international experience favoured?
- Preference is given to candidates without extensive international experience.
- What is the purpose of the UMAPS Information Webinar?
- The webinar provides information about program eligibility and application preparation.
- Where can I find more details about the program?
- Visit the University of Michigan website for more details about the UMAPS Program.
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