Pathways to Drug Discovery in Africa
About the Symposium
The Pathways to Drug Discovery in Africa symposium is a one-day, abstract-driven scientific meeting showcasing cutting-edge, early-stage drug discovery projects led by African postgraduate and early-career scientists. This unique platform will spotlight promising compounds and approaches with the potential to advance towards preclinical and clinical development.
The top 10 abstracts will be selected for oral presentations and divided into two thematic sessions:
• Morning: Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs)
• Afternoon: Infectious Diseases
Who Should Apply?
We invite submissions from:
• Postgraduate students (Master’s, PhD) based in Africa.
• Early-career scientists (≤5 years post-PhD) affiliated with African institutions.
• Researchers working on drug discovery projects with clear translational potential.
Scope of Abstracts
Projects should present state-of-the-art research in early-stage drug discovery, including but not limited to:
• Novel small molecules, biologics, or natural products.
• Structure-based or computational drug design.
• High-throughput screening hits with preliminary validation.
• Lead optimisation studies.
• Novel targets relevant to African disease burdens.
• Innovative drug delivery approaches relevant to NCDs or infectious diseases.
Only original work that has not been previously published in full will be considered.
Abstract Structure & Formatting
• Word Limit: Maximum 300 words (excluding title and authors).
• Structure:
- Background: Brief context and rationale.
- Methods: Key techniques, models, or approaches used.
- Results: Main findings (include preliminary data if applicable).
- Conclusion: Implications and next steps towards clinical translation.
• Title: Concise and informative (max. 20 words).
• Authors & Affiliations: List all authors; indicate presenting author with an asterisk (*).
• Font & Spacing: Times New Roman, 12 pt, single-spaced, justified alignment.
• File Format: Word (.doc/.docx) or PDF.
Submission Process
To submit your abstract, fill the form below and ensure you attach the required document.
