The Department of Science and Innovation-CSIR Bursary Programme: Funding Opportunities for Postgraduate Research in South Africa

The Department of Science and Innovation-CSIR Bursary Programme: Funding Opportunities for Postgraduate Research in South Africa

DEADLINE: 04 August 2025

DSI-CSIR Bursary Programme: Funding Opportunities for Postgraduate Research in South Africa

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), in collaboration with the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), is committed to nurturing the next generation of scientific and engineering leaders in South Africa. Through the DSI-CSIR Inter-Bursary Support Programme, postgraduate students are provided with comprehensive financial and developmental support to pursue their academic and research aspirations in critical areas of national importance. This initiative is a cornerstone in building a robust knowledge economy and addressing societal challenges through cutting-edge research.

A Gateway to Academic Excellence: Programme Overview

The DSI-CSIR Inter-Bursary Support Programme is designed to empower talented South African students to undertake full-time postgraduate studies at public universities across the country. It aims to cultivate a pool of highly skilled researchers and innovators who can contribute meaningfully to the country’s scientific and technological advancement. The programme provides more than just financial aid; it offers a holistic support system that includes access to world-class research facilities, mentorship, and professional development opportunities.

Eligibility and Focus Areas: Who Can Apply?

To ensure the programme aligns with national research priorities, specific eligibility criteria and focus areas have been established. Prospective applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Academic Standing: Students must be approved for or currently registered for full-time Honours/fourth-year engineering/Postgraduate Diploma, Master’s, or Doctorate degrees at any recognized South African public university.
• Research Alignment: A crucial aspect of the application is the alignment of the proposed research with the CSIR’s thematic research areas. These areas represent strategic fields identified for their potential to drive innovation and address pressing societal needs.

The bursary scheme prioritizes research in diverse and impactful fields, including but not limited to:

• Biocatalysis
• Biopharming
• Bioprocessing
• Health
• Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
• Indigenous Knowledge Systems
• Microsystems Technology
• Mining
• Modelling and Digital Sciences
• Titanium (manufacturing elements)
• Photonics
• Water Research

Prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to ensure their proposed studies fall within these critical domains to maximize their chances of selection.

Comprehensive Financial Support: Investing in Talent

The DSI-CSIR Inter-Bursary Support Programme offers competitive annual bursary values, recognizing the financial demands of postgraduate studies. The award values are structured as follows:

• Honours/Fourth-Year Engineering/Postgraduate Diploma: R130,000 per annum
• Master’s Degree: R140,000 per annum
• Doctorate Degree: R160,000 per annum

In addition to the annual bursary, students also receive a once-off laptop allowance of R10,000, ensuring they have the necessary tools for their academic pursuits.

Beyond Funding: Unparalleled Benefits and Development Opportunities

The programme’s true value extends far beyond financial assistance. Bursary recipients gain access to a wealth of additional benefits designed to enhance their research capabilities, foster their personal growth, and prepare them for successful careers:

• Research Support: This includes funding for experimental costs (up to R35,000 per annum) and invaluable access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research infrastructure within the CSIR.
• Conference Participation: Students are supported to attend national and international conferences (up to R35,000 per annum), providing crucial opportunities to present their research, network with peers, and engage with leading experts in their fields.
• Career Development: The programme offers possible work placement opportunities, interview skills training, and the chance to work on real-life projects with co-supervision from CSIR researchers.
• Personal and Professional Growth: Bursary holders benefit from psychosocial support, a dedicated student wellness program, and mentorship opportunities.
• Skills Enhancement: Research skills training workshops are provided to hone critical academic abilities.
• Publication Support: Funding is available for thesis/dissertation/research publications and printing costs, facilitating the dissemination of their research findings.
• Practical Experience: Vacation work opportunities are also available, offering practical exposure to industry and research environments.
• Recognition: Top-performing students receive well-deserved recognition for their achievements.

Application Process and Key Dates

The call for applications for the 2026 intake is currently open. Aspiring postgraduate students are invited to apply through the dedicated online portal: https://bursaryconnect.csir.co.za.

Important Deadline: The closing date for applications is Monday, 4 August 2025. Prospective applicants are advised to submit their applications well in advance to avoid any last-minute technical issues.

For further inquiries or assistance, interested individuals can contact the programme administrators at:

• Tel: +27(12) 841 3304
• Email: bursaryprogramme@csir.co.za

The DSI-CSIR Inter-Bursary Support Programme stands as a testament to the commitment of the Department of Science and Innovation and the CSIR in fostering a vibrant research ecosystem in South Africa. By investing in the nation’s brightest minds, the programme aims to drive innovation, address critical challenges, and secure a prosperous future for all.

For more information about the CSIR and its initiatives, you can visit their official website: CSIR Official Website.

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