Merck Foundation Oncology Fellowship Program  

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The Merck Foundation Oncology Fellowship Program is a flagship initiative under the Merck Foundation Cancer Access Program. It aims to enhance access to quality cancer care by building professional capacity in oncology across Africa and developing countries. The program focuses on developing multidisciplinary oncology care teams, including specialties such as medical oncology, surgical oncology, gynecologic oncology, pediatric oncology, radiation oncology, pain and palliative care, hematology oncology, interventional radiology, breast surgery, head and neck oncology, radiation technology, oncology nursing, laboratory technology, cytoscreening, and oncology research.‍

Program Structure  

• Training Locations: India, Egypt, and Kenya
• Program Types:

• In-Campus Fellowships: 1 to 3 years
• Online Postgraduate Diplomas: 1 to 2 years

• Specialties Offered:

• Medical Oncology
• Surgical Oncology
• Gynecologic Oncology
• Pediatric Oncology
• Radiation Oncology
• Pain & Palliative Care
• Hematology Oncology
• Interventional Radiology
• Breast Surgery
• Head & Neck Oncology
• Radiation Technology
• Oncology Nursing
• Laboratory Technology
• Cytoscreening
• Oncology Research

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Eligibility Criteria  

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Nationality: Citizens of African countries, developing countries, or underserved communities as per the UN Human Development Index.
• Educational Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Medicine and Surgery (MBBS/MBChB).
• Postgraduate qualifications relevant to the chosen specialty (e.g., Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics).

• Recommendation:

• For African countries: A recommendation letter from the First Lady's Office or the Ministry of Health is mandatory.
• For Asian countries: A recommendation letter from the Ministry of Health or Medical Societies is required.

• Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English is required. For non-English speaking applicants, interpreters will be provided during in-campus training.

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Application Process  

1. Prepare Required Documents:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Graduation Certificates
• Income Proof (latest salary slip, bank statement, or salary certificate)
• Personal Statement/Letter of Interest
• Recommendation Letter

2. Submit Application:

• Complete the online application form available on the Merck Foundation website.
• Attach all required documents.
• Ensure that all documents are in English or accompanied by a certified translation 

Since its inception, the program has provided over 200 scholarships to doctors from more than 30 African countries, significantly increasing the number of trained oncologists and establishing the first cancer care teams in several nations.

This fellowship offers a transformative opportunity for medical professionals to enhance their oncology expertise and contribute to improving cancer care in their home countries.

For more information and to apply, visit the official Merck Foundation Oncology Fellowship Program page: https://merck-foundation.com/our-programs/Merck-Foundation-Cancer-Access-Program/Merck-Oncology-Fellowship-Program

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