Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
2026/2027 Academic Session

The IVAN Research Institute, University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), in collaboration with the Nigeria Implementation Science Alliance (NISA), hereby invites suitably qualified candidates for admission into the Doctoral Degree Programme in Implementation Science for the 2026/2027 academic session.

ABOUT THE PROGRAMME

Implementation Science is an emerging interdisciplinary field focused on bridging the gap between research evidence and real-world policy and practice. This programme is designed to build sustainable national and regional capacity in translating evidence-based interventions into sustainable health and development outcomes, particularly within low- and middle-income country contexts. The programme leverages the vast infrastructure of the NISA Practice Based Research Network, the strong institutional collaboration among NISA, the IVAN Research Institute and the University of Nigeria.

PROGRAMMES AVAILABLE

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Implementation Science

DURATION OF PROGRAMMES

PhD: 36–60 months (51 credit units), including a 12-month mentored practicum embedded within NISA implementation sites

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

 Applicants must:

• Hold an MSc or MPH degree (minimum CGPA of 3.5 on a 5.0 scale) in Implementation Science, Public Health, Epidemiology, Health Systems, Social or Behavioural Sciences, or related fields.
• Demonstrate evidence of research experience and/or scholarly output.
• Submit:
• A Research concept note (maximum 1,000 words)
• Three letters of reference (two academic and one professional)
• Successfully complete an interview and qualifying examination as required by the College.

Candidates with relevant professional qualifications (e.g. PhD,  MBBS, MSc) may be considered for direct PhD entry, subject to approval.

MODE OF DELIVERY

• Blended learning (in-person and virtual)
• Applied coursework, seminars, and workshops
• Mentored practicum embedded within Nigeria Implementation Science Alliance (NISA) sites
• Strong emphasis on real-world implementation research, grant writing, and publication

CAREER PROSPECTS

 Graduates of the programme will be equipped for careers in:

• Academic and applied implementation research
• Health systems strengthening and policy advisory roles
• Government agencies, NGOs, and international organizations
• Programme design, evaluation, and scale-up of evidence-based interventions

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

Interested candidates should apply through the University of Nigeria Postgraduate Application Portal, following the guidelines of the College of Postgraduate Studies. Applicants will be redirected to the IVAN research Institute Website to complete their application.

In addition, shortlisted applicants may be required to submit supporting documents and participate in programme-specific screening coordinated by the IVAN Research Institute, in line with the collaborative admission process.

ENQUIRIES

IVAN Research Institute
University of Nigeria, Nsukka
📧 Email: admin@ivaninstitute.org
🌐 Website: www.ivaninstitute.org