AfCNP Schools on Neuropsychopharmacology
The AfCNP School is an intensive annual training programme that brings together early-career researchers and clinicians from across Africa to learn from leading experts in neuropsychopharmacology, neuroscience, and brain health. The school combines lectures, journal clubs, mentorship, networking, and scientific presentations to foster collaboration and build research capacity across the continent.
The African College on Neuropsychopharmacology (AfCNP) School is an intensive annual training programme designed to strengthen research capacity and advance education in neuropsychopharmacology and brain
health across Africa.
The school brings together early-career researchers, clinicians, and academics from diverse disciplines for a week of
immersive learning led by internationally recognized experts. Through lectures, interactive discussions, mentorship, journal clubs, and scientific presentations, participants gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills while building lasting professional networks.
More than a training programme, the AfCNP School serves as a platform for fostering scientific collaboration, mentorship,
and leadership to address the growing burden of mental, neurological, and substance use disorders across the African continent.
Purpose of the School
The AfCNP School was established to address the need for high-quality training and research capacity in neuropsychopharmacology and related disciplines in Africa.
Its objectives are to:
- Strengthen knowledge and skills in neuropsychopharmacology, neuroscience, psychiatry, and brain health.
- Equip participants with current scientific approaches to understanding and treating mental, neurological, and substance use disorders.
- Promote interdisciplinary learning across clinical, biomedical, and population health sciences.
- Foster collaboration among researchers, clinicians, and institutions across Africa and internationally.
- Support the development of the next generation of African scientists and leaders in brain health research.
- Encourage innovation, critical thinking, and evidence-based approaches to research and clinical practice.
- Build sustainable networks that continue beyond the duration of the school.
Who Should Apply?
The AfCNP School is intended for motivated early-career professionals who are committed to advancing research and clinical practice in brain and mental health.
Applications are encouraged from:
- Psychiatry residents and psychiatrists
- Clinical psychologists
- Neurologists and neurology trainees
- Neuroscientists
- Pharmacologists
- Physicians with an interest in mental health
- Pharmacists involved in neuroscience or psychopharmacology research
- Public health researchers working in brain and mental health
- Graduate students (Master’s, PhD, MD, or equivalent)
- Postdoctoral researchers
- Early-career faculty members
- Researchers working in neuroscience, addiction, and brain health, neuroimmunology, cognitive neuroscience, genetics, and related disciplines
Applicants should demonstrate:
- A strong interest in brain and mental health research
- Academic or clinical excellence
- Commitment to research or clinical practice in Africa
- Willingness to engage in collaborative learning
- Proficiency in English, as the school is conducted in English
Benefits of Attending
Participation in the AfCNP School offers a unique opportunity for academic and professional development.Participants benefit from:
Learning from International Experts
Engage directly with distinguished faculty from leading universities and research institutions worldwide.
Mentorship
Receive guidance from experienced researchers and clinicians on career development, research planning, grant writing, and academic progression.
Scientific Networking
Build connections with peers and faculty from across Africa and beyond, fostering future collaborations and multidisciplinary partnerships.
Presentation Experience
Develop confidence and communication skills by presenting journal club sessions, research ideas, and scientific discussions.
Exposure to Current Research
Gain insight into recent advances, emerging technologies, and future directions in neuropsychopharmacology and brain health.
Career Development
Acquire skills that support academic careers, research leadership, and evidence-based clinical practice.
Long-Term Community
Become part of the growing AfCNP network of alumni, faculty, and collaborators working to strengthen neuroscience and mental health research in Africa.
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