The Africa Bioethics Network (ABN) is expanding its Country Representatives (CR) program to strengthen bioethics leadership across Africa. CRs serve as vital bridges between ABN's continental initiatives and national bioethics communities, helping to shape the future of bioethics governance across the continent. We invite applications from qualified bioethics professionals to represent ABN in their countries and drive local engagement with our mission.
✔ Serve as ABN's official representative and ambassador in your country
✔ Connect ABN programs with national stakeholders (universities, RECs, policymakers, health institutions)
✔ Provide country-specific insights to inform ABN's continental strategy
✔ Facilitate local awareness and participation in ABN initiatives
✔ Participate in quarterly CR meetings and submit brief quarterly reports
✔ Support expansion of ABN membership in your country
✔ Build collaborations with universities, research institutions, and civil society
✔ Share ABN opportunities with local networks
✔ Organize or support bioethics events and workshops
✔ Provide input on country-specific ethical challenges and priorities
✔ Connect ABN with relevant national institutions and partners
✔ Contribute local perspectives to ABN's research and policy work
✔ Quarterly meetings: Attend virtual meetings (2 hours) every three months
✔ Quarterly reports: Submit brief updates using provided templates
✔ Local engagement: 4-6 hours per month for stakeholder activities
✔ Term: Two-year renewable terms
Note: This is a voluntary leadership role without financial compensation
✔ Orientation and comprehensive resource package
✔ Templates, promotional materials, and certificates of service
✔ Visibility through ABN website, newsletters, and events
✔ Priority access to ABN training and leadership opportunities
• ABN membership (or application in process)
• Current residence in the country of application
• Advanced degree (Master’s/PhD) in bioethics, public health, medicine, law, philosophy, or related field
• Demonstrated experience in bioethics, research ethics, or health policy
• Proven leadership and networking skills
• Strong communication abilities (English essential; French/Portuguese preferred regionally)
• Strong local networks and ability to connect ABN with stakeholders
• Experience serving on or supporting research ethics committees/IRBs
• Prior involvement in bioethics training, mentorship, or capacity-building
• Strong professional networks within health research, education, or policy
• Demonstrated engagement in policy development, advocacy, or community- level initiatives
• Track record of collaborative projects or publications in bioethics or related areas
We welcome applications from the following African countries:
North Africa
Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Sudan, Tunisia
West Africa
Benin, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mauritania, Nigeria, Togo
Central Africa
Central African Republic, Chad, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Republic of the Congo, São Tomé and Príncipe
East Africa
Burundi, Comoros, Eritrea, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mayotte, Seychelles, Somalia, Uganda
Southern Africa
Angola, Lesotho, Namibia
October 31, 2025
Complete the online application form by clicking the application button.
✔ Applications close: October 20, 2025
✔ Review & selection: October 21 - November 7
✔ Notification & onboarding: by November 10 - 15
✔ Orientation: late November
✔ Next CR meeting: December 17, 2025
✅ Completed online application form
✅ Current CV highlighting relevant experience
✅ Statement of interest and vision (maximum 500 words)
✅ Two professional references
Applications will be assessed on:
1. Expertise: Relevant qualifications in bioethics/research ethics
2. Leadership: Ability to engage and coordinate stakeholders
3. Networks: Existing national bioethics connections
4. Vision: Understanding of country needs and contribution to ABN strategy
5. Commitment: Availability to fulfill CR responsibilities
6. Communication: Clear representation of ABN values
No.
At this stage, we are only accepting applications from countries without an active representative. Future calls may open additional opportunities depending on program needs.
ABN membership is required, but you can apply for membership as part of this process.
Apply through the membership page or by clicking this link.
This is a voluntary leadership role. ABN covers meeting costs and provides professional development opportunities.
English proficiency is essential. French or Portuguese skills are valuable for relevant regions.
About ABN
The Africa Bioethics Network (ABN) is a continental platform advancing African-led bioethics through training, mentorship, publishing, research, and advocacy. With over 1,200 members across 41 countries, ABN ensures African perspectives shape global bioethics discourse.
Strengthen bioethics leadership in your country.
Email : secretariat@africabioethicsnetwork.org Website: www.africabioethicsnetwork.org
Follow us: @AfricaBioethics
