The Malawi Liverpool Wellcome Research Programme (MLW) has received a seven-year core grant from Wellcome to advance its world-class research platforms, training programmes and scientific strategy.
A flagship partnership for over 30 years between the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), the University of Liverpool, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences in Malawi, and Wellcome, MLW has delivered groundbreaking research that has shaped global health policy. Since 1995, its scientists have led and worked on high-impact research trials on malaria, tuberculosis, HIV, pneumonia treatments, maternal and child health, and vaccine policy.
The new award will strengthen Malawi-led, globally connected research that tackles infectious diseases, maternal, neonatal, and child health, health systems, and social determinants, as well as climate-health, while expanding world-class training for the next generation of African research leaders.
Professor Henry Mwandumba, Programme Director for MLW, said: “This funding from Wellcome is a vote of confidence in the hard work and dedication of our teams and in Malawi’s role at the forefront of global health research.
“It will allow us to scale high-impact health research, accelerate clinical trials, invest in data science and innovation, and deepen our commitment to training and equitable partnerships that translate research into better health outcomes. We are incredibly grateful for Wellcome's continued partnership and shared vision for a healthier future.”
Professor Bertie Squire, Pro-Vice Chancellor for Research Partnerships at LSTM, said: “For 30 years, the Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Programme has demonstrated how equitable partnerships in global health can save lives. Together with our partners, we are proud to continue to support MLW’s success, delivering outstanding translational research to tackle the burden of disease and training the next generation of scientists and health leaders in the region.”
The 2025-2032 core funding will be instrumental in strengthening MLW's research and training infrastructure, culture, and public engagement, expanding its impact as an international centre of excellence in interdisciplinary health research and training.
Jimmy Volmink, Executive Director of Equity at Wellcome, said: “Producing pioneering research and consistently investing in new generations of researchers, the Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Research Programme has made a remarkable impact in advancing global health since first being established 30 years ago.
“We are delighted to continue our support for MLW, collaborating with our funding partners, ensuring the Programme can foster learning and discovery to find solutions to urgent health challenges.”