top of page

Phase 1: PiTCH train-the-trainer mentorship program

CALL FOR APPLICATIONS 2025 - NOW CLOSED!

​​

Quick navigation: [Information session][Application information]

 

Applications are now open for Phase 1 of the PiTCH Fellowship Program. This competitive, train-the-trainer mentorship initiative is designed to strengthen microscopy capacity through collaboration, peer learning, bilateral skills exchange, and guided mentorship. Read more about this here. â€‹

​​

A tripartite mentorship model

The program will pair one African and one global partner for up to 12 months of remote mentorship by international microscopy experts. ​

  • African partner: Researchers in Africa aiming to apply microscopy in their research and strengthen local capacity through teaching and workshops.

  • Global partner: Early-career researchers from anywhere in the world with microscopy experience, seeking teaching and workshop experience. 

  • Mentor: A global expert in microscopy education who provides structured guidance throughout the fellowship.

​​

Phase 1: Remote mentorship (2025–2026)​

During Phase 1, four teaching pairs (eight fellows in total) will engage in a remote mentorship program lasting up to 12 months. This flexible format enables participants to contribute meaningfully while balancing their existing research and professional responsibilities.

 

Mentorship framework overview​​

  • Duration: Up to 12 months (remote).

  • Participants: 4 African Partners + 4 Global Partners = 4 teaching pairs.

  • Mentorship team: Each pair will be supported by an experienced international microscopy mentor.

  • Core activities: Monthly mentorship sessions (or as needed), collaborative planning, peer learning, and structured feedback.

  • Focus areas: Technical skills, curriculum design, co-teaching strategies, adaptation to local context, planning, logistics, communication, and budgeting.

  • Expected outcome: Enhanced skills and a completed, fundable microscopy workshop concept note tailored to the African research environment.

 

Upon completing Phase 1, teaching pairs may be invited to apply for Phase 2, where they will co-deliver their workshop (designed in Phase 1) at the African Partner’s institution. This is subject to the availability of resources and proposal strength.

​

Teaching pairs may also use their developed concepts notes to apply for third party funding to support the implementation of their workshops. 

​

Eligibility

We welcome applications from motivated applicants who are:​

  • Active in microscopy, life sciences, bioimaging, or related fields.

  • Committed to mentorship, capacity building, and collaborative training.

  • Able to participate in up to 12 months of remote mentorship.

  • Endorsed by a referee or institutional representative.

 

Information Session​

AMI hosted an online information session for prospective PiTCH applicants. The session provided information on the application process as well as the review and selection process, which will be helpful for prospective applicants.

​

View the webinar recording here: [Link]

  • PiTCH overview: 10:00

  • What to expect for Phase 1: 23:15

  • Q&A session: 31:57​

​

How to apply?

Complete all relevant sections of the online application form below. Ensure that you select the correct application form. It is strongly recommended to review the Application Guidelines and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) before commencing with the application form. 

​

Application form and guidelines:

​​​​​

Application deadline: 20 September 2025 at 15:00 UTC
Notification of outcomes: by 30 November 2025

 

NB: All self-reported experience, skills, and achievements must be accurate and verifiable. Misleading claims will result in disqualification.

 

Shortlisted applicants will be invited for interviews.​

​

PiTCH application
Information session
bottom of page