Capacity Development in Global Health Research

Capacity development in global health research encompasses the enhancement of skills, resources and systems that enable individuals, institutions and networks—particularly in low- and middle-income countries—to generate, interpret and apply evidence for improved health outcomes. This multifaceted endeavour addresses gaps in methodological expertise, infrastructure and leadership, while fostering a research culture that values collaboration, equity and sustainability. Key components include high-quality training programmes, effective mentorship, robust funding mechanisms and supportive governance structures. At the institutional level, strengthening administrative processes, establishing transparent data-management systems and promoting inclusive decision-making are essential to sustain research activities and retain talent. International partnerships and consortia play a pivotal role by facilitating resource sharing, cross-disciplinary collaboration and exposure to global best practices. Ultimately, effective capacity development ensures that health research agendas are locally relevant, that findings inform policy and practice, and that regions most affected by disease burdens can lead and own their research priorities.

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Capacity Development in Global Health Research publication trend

The graph below shows the total number of articles in capacity development in global health research across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).

Technical terms

Research capacity: The combination of skills, resources and institutional support required to conduct, manage and apply research effectively.

Consortium: A collaborative network of institutions or organisations that pool expertise and resources to achieve shared research and capacity-building goals.

Mentorship: A structured support relationship in which experienced researchers guide junior colleagues in developing skills, networks and career pathways.

Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs): Nations classified by economic indicators in which health research capacity is often limited by resource constraints.

Capacity strengthening: The process of enhancing existing competencies and systems rather than creating parallel or short-term interventions.

References

1. How international research consortia can strengthen organisations’ research systems and promote a conducive environment and culture. BMJ Global Health (2023).
2. Harnessing the potential of African youth for transforming health research in Africa. Globalization and Health (2024).
3. Research capacity, motivators and barriers to conducting research among healthcare providers in Tanzania’s public health system: a mixed methods study. Human Resources for Health (2023).