MORU - OUCRU Discovery Research Academy
The MORU–OUCRU Discovery Research Academy (MODRA) is a Wellcome-funded initiative from the Oxford University Clinical Research Unit (OUCRU) and the Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit (MORU).
With a focus on global health and infectious diseases, this 18-month programme is designed to empower early to mid-career post-doctoral researchers within our extensive network across Asian low and middle-income countries (LMICs).
Our vision is to transform the landscape of health research in South Asia by building capacity, enhancing research skills, and fostering a vibrant community of researchers. We aim to:
- Provide researchers with access to high-quality training, and mentorship.
- Offer workshops in grant writing, pitching, project and financial management.
- Enable researchers to establish collaborations and obtain seed funding for their research projects.
- Embed mentorship schemes with senior scientists for career development.
- Grow a strong, engaged research community across the region.
MODRA’s mission is to nurture the next generation of scientific leaders in low- and middle-income countries of South Asia.
Our Network
OUCRU and MORU are a unique constellation of research units collaborating across South Asia. We are united by a shared history and commitment to tackling global health problems and infectious diseases that pose significant health challenges in the region. Our affiliation with the Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health at the University of Oxford ensures that we maintain the highest international standards in research and training.
Our expertise spans a range of critical areas including malaria, tuberculosis, critical care, emerging infections, and more. We conduct rigorous clinical trials, epidemiological studies, and embrace innovative technologies and methodologies to address pressing health issues.
How to Apply
- Applicants must be nationals from the following countries: Bangladesh, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal, Thailand, or Vietnam. Applicants must be affiliated with a research institution within these countries.
- The program is tailored for early to mid-career researchers. Applicants must hold a PhD degree. Please note that PhD students who have not yet received their PhD (pre-award) and senior researchers who are leading their own research groups are not eligible.
- Applicants are expected to conduct research in global health, with a preference for those focusing on infectious diseases and issues relevant to resource-limited settings. We welcome applicants from all disciplines related to global health including, but not limited to, clinical research, ethics, health economics, laboratory-based research, mathematical modelling, policy, public or community engagement research, implementation science, social science, and statistics.
- Applicants should demonstrate the potential and aspiration to become regional research leaders. It is expected that applicants will be likely to apply for international grant funding within the next two years.
- Applicants must commit to the full 18-month duration of the MODRA program. This includes:
- Active participation in all in-person workshops.
- Preparation of a seed award proposal, including a budget plan.
- Execution of seed awarded projects, contingent upon funding.
- Engagement with mentors and adherence to submitting required progress reports.
- Development of a full grant proposal by the end of the program.
To apply for the MODRA program, please ensure you complete the application form and email all of the following supplementary documentation to leigh.jones@ndm.ox.ac.uk:
- Cover letter explaining why you are applying for MODRA at this time, what you intend to gain from the MODRA experience and include a statement that you are available to fully commit to MODRA as described in eligibility criteria above
- Full CV and accompanying academic qualification certificates
- Evidence of English language competency with a minimum IELTS score of 6.5. Waivers may be considered for applicants who have completed their degree at an institution where the medium of instruction and assessment was English.
- Supporting letter(s) from your line manager(s) to:
- Confirm your suitability for the MODRA program and the potential contribution to your research institute.
- Grant permission for you to fully engage in the MODRA process, ensuring you can meet all the commitments as mentioned above.
Still have questions? Watch our Introductory Webinar for more guidance.
Programme Timeline
Pre–workshop (Online)
Call 1 | MODRA introduction: 31st July 2025, 14.30 – 15.30 (VN time GT+7)
Call 2 | SWOT analysis training: 15th August 2025, 13.30 – 15.30 (VN time GT+7)
Call 3 | Academic CV training: 22nd August 2025, 14.00 – 15.00 (VN time GT+7)
Workshop (In-Person)
Workshop 1: 8th – 12th September, 2025 – Bangkok, Thailand
Workshop 2: 27th – 31st October, 2025 – Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
Workshop 3: November, 2026 – Jakarta, Indonesia
