Mountains of the Moon University (MMU), in partnership with Makerere University, Ghent University (HoGent), and VLIR-UOS, has invited applications for a PhD scholarship under the Life Transition–Responsive Adherence (LiTRA) project, aimed at strengthening adolescent HIV care in Uganda through implementation science.
The LiTRA project was conceived against a background where adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) in Uganda continue to face poor adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART), particularly during major life transitions such as joining boarding school, parenthood, employment, and the shift to adult HIV care. The project seeks to address this gap through participatory action research, co-developing and embedding a transition-responsive adherence strategy into routine HIV care, while strengthening MMU’s capacity in implementation science.
The PhD scholarship is tenable at Makerere University College of Health Sciences, with supervision from Dr. Nangendo Joan of Makerere University, Dr. Emmanuel Kimera of MMU, and Dr. Sofie Vindevogel of HoGent, alongside mentorship from Ms. Linda Grace Alanyo of MMU. The successful candidate will lead research on identifying life-transition barriers facing adolescents living with HIV, and on co-developing, testing, and evaluating the LiTRA strategy. The scholarship covers tuition for up to four years, research costs, and a monthly stipend to cater for related expenses.
Eligibility requirements for interested applicants include:
- An MSc. in a health-related field, such as Nursing, Midwifery, Medicine, Pharmacy, or Public Health
- A strong interest in HIV research, child health, adolescent health, or implementation research
- Proficiency in both written and spoken English and Rutooro
- Good writing, analytical, and synthesis skills
- Basic knowledge in participatory and implementation research
- Prior publication experience, considered an added advantage
- Availability to spend time at Makerere University, MMU, and for occasional trips to HoGent in Belgium
The University has particularly encouraged female applicants to apply.
A selection committee comprising representatives from all participating partner institutions will shortlist applicants based on their qualifications, potential for success, and prospective contribution to the Faculty of Health Sciences at MMU.
Shortlisted candidates will then be interviewed, with the highest-ranked applicant selected for the award.
Interested candidates are required to submit their applications before close of business on 21st August 2026. Applications should be compiled into a single PDF containing a short concept note (2–3 pages) and a short CV (maximum 3 pages), together with copies of academic documents (Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees). Applications should be emailed to dean.fhs@mmu.ac.ug, with a copy to the Co-Principal Investigator, Ms. Linda Grace Alanyo, at lindalindrace@gmail.com.