The University of Michigan African Presidential Scholars Program (UMAPS) provides a valuable opportunity for early-career faculty members from African universities to advance their academic work at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. The program facilitates research development, academic growth, and global collaboration by connecting African scholars with University of Michigan faculty collaborators. During the five-month residency, scholars have access to University of Michigan resources to work on research projects, academic degrees, publications, grant proposals, or other scholarly pursuits.
Program Overview
UMAPS supports the development of emerging African scholars by fostering international academic networks and research collaborations across a broad range of disciplines. This program exemplifies the University of Michigan’s commitment to building global partnerships in areas such as engineering, economics, literature, and more.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the UMAPS Program, applicants must:
- Be Early-Career Faculty: Applicants should have taught in the higher education system for less than ten years and be currently teaching at a college or university in Africa.
- Hold an Ongoing Position: Applicants must be employed in a continuing role at a higher education institution in Africa.
- Receive Institutional Support: Applicants must have a recommendation letter from their department head, dean, or vice chancellor to complete their application.
- Residency Commitment: Scholars must be able to stay in residence for the full five-month period.
Benefits of the Program
Successful applicants receive:
- Five-Month Residency: A stay at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, with full access to university facilities and resources.
- Round-Trip Airfare: Travel costs from their home country to Ann Arbor.
- Free Housing and Medical Insurance: Private room and bath in a suite, as well as medical coverage during the residency.
- Research Allowance and Living Stipend: Funds to support research activities and a modest living stipend.
- Office/Laboratory Space: Access to office or lab space to conduct research.
- Presentation Opportunities: Scholars can present their research to the University of Michigan community, gaining valuable feedback and exposure.
Note: UMAPS cannot provide accommodation for spouses or dependents.
Application Process
To apply, candidates should:
- Complete the Online Application Form: Only applicants from Angola, Botswana, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, and Uganda can apply directly.
- Submit Required Documents:
- Curriculum Vitae: Uploaded via the online application.
- Research Proposal: A scholarly proposal (maximum five pages) outlining the planned research activities.
- Provide Contact Information for a Recommender: Applicants must include the contact information of a department head, dean, or vice chancellor who will submit a support letter.
Application Deadline: October 15, 2024
Nomination Process
Applicants from African countries outside the listed direct application countries must be nominated by a University of Michigan faculty member. For nomination:
- The University of Michigan faculty member must complete an online nomination form.
- The nominating faculty member must provide a letter of endorsement, agreeing to serve as a mentor and meet regularly with the scholar.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply directly to the UMAPS program?
Early-career faculty members from Angola, Botswana, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, and Uganda can apply directly through the online system.
2. What does the program cover?
UMAPS covers round-trip airfare, housing, medical insurance, a research allowance, and a living stipend for the five-month residency.
3. Can faculty from other African countries apply?
Yes, faculty members from other African countries can apply through nomination by a University of Michigan faculty member with whom they have an established relationship.
4. What documents are required for the application?
Applicants must submit an online application, curriculum vitae, research proposal, and a letter of recommendation from their institution.
5. Is it necessary to remain in residence for the full five months?
Yes, applicants must commit to the full five-month residency to benefit fully from the program.
6. Can I bring family members with me?
No, the UMAPS program cannot accommodate spouses or dependents.
For more information and to apply, please visit the University of Michigan African Presidential Scholars Program website.