The inaugural ISARIC Leadership Programme for Scientists (ILPS) has officially launched, offering mid-career researchers from Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) the essential skills to become independent research leaders.
The Universidad de La Sabana and ISARIC have designed a programme to empower emerging scientists with leadership, strategic thinking, and collaboration skills needed to advance their research careers and drive positive change within their institutions, communities, and scientific fields.
The programme combines self-directed and interactive learning. Most training will be delivered online by Universidad de La Sabana, through a mix of self-paced modules and live virtual sessions that accommodate participant schedules and time zones. This will be followed by a face-to-face residential experience in Bogotá, Colombia, fostering deeper collaboration, intensive learning, and networking opportunities. The final component is tailored mentorship and ongoing support, beginning in May 2026, to guide participants’ development for up to a year beyond the formal training period.
Funded by Wellcome, the Gates Foundation, and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), the programme reflects ISARIC’s mission to increase the agency of LMIC investigators and reduce chronic asymmetries of power and benefits in global research. The inaugural call targeted mid-career female researchers based in LMICs who are ready to take the next step and lead as Principal Investigators for the first time.
Dr Luis Felipe Reyes, Leadership Programme Manager, said “Over the years we have built a strong tradition of training scientists and clinician-researchers across Latin America, grounded in regional realities and a deep commitment to equitable research leadership. This course was co-developed with INALDE Business School, one of the top business schools in Latin America, drawing on its recognised expertise in leadership, mentorship, and the business of science. Together with the Unisabana Center for Translational Science, this partnership brings a unique integration of scientific excellence, managerial insight, and translational capacity.”
Dr Gail Carson, Director of Network Development at ISARIC, said “We hope that this course will provide an opportunity to ISARIC member researchers from the LMICs to develop their leadership skills whilst making new friends/colleagues from across the world that may lead to future collaborations.
The world saw clearly during the pandemic the positive role that female leadership had, and we see this first cohort of all women, as our contribution to developing female scientific leaders.”
Dr Arishay Hussani, member of ISARIC Member Network SEARCH and successful programme applicant said “I’m very grateful to have been selected for ILPS, because it offers mid-career researchers from LMICs like myself a unique chance to build capacity and strengthen the skills needed to conduct research that is relevant and impactful. Looking forward to what’s in store!”
The next ILPS cohort will begin in October 2026, with applications opening next year. Details will be shared with ISARIC Member Network representatives via email and newsletter Spring 2026.
For more information, please visit the ISARIC Leadership Programme for Scientists webpage.
