Over the past decade of my career as a medical research scientist, I have had the privilege of meeting, working with, and mentoring several brilliant and talented young scientists. And also teaching and supervising many at the postgraduate level. A recurring observation I have made is that many of them express uncertainty about their ability to thrive in the African context. As such, several graduates have sought opportunities beyond Africa in pursuit of better prospects.

Imagine possessing the knowledge, passion, and determination to drive groundbreaking scientific discoveries, yet grappling with uncertainty about your ability to succeed—solely because you are building your research career in Africa.

Fortunately, in spite of the many challenges faced by researchers in Africa, there are numerous untapped opportunities that make working here uniquely rewarding. One of the most profound advantages is the ability to easily drive meaningful change in Africa. The pressing needs and challenges across the continent offer a rare chance for research to directly and significantly impact the lives of people here. Moreover, there is an immensely gratifying opportunity to build teams, nurture human resources, and develop infrastructure from the ground up, shaping the future of science and innovation.

In this article, I share seven (7) tips that can empower success in Africa. The same may also resonate with individuals operating in other parts of the world.

1. Clarify Career Goals: Self-reflection allows individuals to contemplate the skills they wish to cultivate, the challenges they aspire to address, or the contributions they aim to make to enhance the well-being of humanity. Reflect on where you want to be in the next couple of years career-wise and why you would like to get to that destination, the problems you would like to solve along the way, and why you would like to address those challenges. Gaining clarity on your aspirations can facilitate the identification of concrete steps and actions necessary for achieving success.

2. Seek Mentorship: A mentor serves as a source of guidance, support, and expertise in navigating the complexities of the research environment. Mentors can assist in charting career trajectories, establishing achievable objectives, and recognizing avenues for professional development. They offer critical perspectives on the academic and research fields, enabling mentees to make well-informed choices regarding future endeavours.

3. Scientific Writing: Sharpen your skills in scientific writing and aim to publish in peer-reviewed journals to gain recognition and contribute meaningfully to the scientific community. Remain current by utilizing relevant resources to keep abreast of the most recent research publications, as writing and reading foster improved critical thinking skills. Keep also in mind that we learn how to write by writing.

4.  Networking/Collaboration: Building strong relationships with fellow scientists across Africa and globally is crucial for fostering networking and collaboration. These connections provide valuable support and open doors to new opportunities for career advancement. Actively participating in workshops, seminars, and conferences keeps you updated on the latest research trends while expanding your professional network. Take the initiative to approach influential figures and confidently present your skills and ideas during networking events. Engage in collaborative projects and seek strategic partnerships that align with your research goals. Additionally, explore dual-affiliation opportunities with global institutions and joint research projects that enable you to collaborate globally while maintaining strong ties to your local institution. Such global exposure enhances research impact as well as ensures meaningful contributions to scientific progress in Africa.

5. Fundraising/Grant Application: Grant-application writing represents a key competency for scientists, particularly in Africa, where funding opportunities are scarce and competition for limited resources is intense. Cultivating proficient grant-application writing skills is essential for obtaining financial support, progressing research initiatives, and establishing a sustainable scientific career. Thus, grant-application writing is not just a skill but serves as a crucial element for achieving career success and making a significant societal impact. By mastering grant-application writing, scientists can access funding opportunities to solve pressing challenges in Africa and on the global stage.

6. Presentation: Effective presentation skills are essential for scientists, enabling them to articulate ideas with clarity, foster collaborations, obtain funding, and make a significant impact on society. Clear communication helps bridge the gap between complex scientific concepts and the real-world applications. Presenting research effectively at national and international conferences elevates visibility and enhances professional standing. It is crucial to take advantage of every opportunity to present, as this not only refines your skills but also showcases your capabilities.

7. Soft (‘magnetic’) Skills: Acquiring competencies in areas such as time management, effective communication, leadership, emotional intelligence, and negotiation can greatly improve your career opportunities and lead to greater success. Utilize the wide array of seminars/workshops, and online courses available to cultivate the necessary skills for your professional development.

Be open to learning new methods, especially technologies that are pertinent to conducting research projects with a local context and a global impact. Leveraging the skills above can help in navigating the scientific research landscape and building a successful career, as well as contribute significantly to the advancement of science and improvement of health outcomes across the continent.

Finally, stay motivated and resilient in the face of obstacles and never give up!

Share this article with fellow researchers, and let’s inspire a new generation of African scientists to thrive! Have additional tips or experiences to share? Join the conversation in the comments; I would love to hear your thoughts!