Application Deadline: March 31st, 2026
The International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) is pleased to announce that applications are now being accepted for the 2026 Fellowships for Scientists in Biosecurity. These fellowships, provided in collaboration with funding support from the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation and the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) through the Biological Weapons Convention Implementation Support Unit (BWC ISU), aim to support early-career scientists hailing from OECD/DAC countries. Selected candidates will have the opportunity to undertake specialized training in life sciences, with a focus on the detection and management of biological threats, at ICGEB laboratories located in Italy, India, South Africa, and the ICGEB Regional Research Centre in China.
How to Apply for Fellowships at ICGEB Laboratories in Trieste (Italy), New Delhi (India), or Cape Town (South Africa)
Prospective applicants interested in joining the ICGEB labs in Trieste, New Delhi, or Cape Town must apply for a short-term PhD Fellowship. Prior to submitting a formal application, candidates are required to get in touch with the relevant ICGEB Group Leader/PI to express their motivation and discuss the availability of laboratory space as well as to collaboratively establish the research project proposal. This proposal will be a fundamental part of the fellowship application.
It is important to note that a mandatory component of the application is a written endorsement from the contacted ICGEB Group Leader who agrees to support the candidate’s project. This endorsement must specifically mention that it is intended for the Fellowships for Scientists in Biosecurity program.
Application Process for the ICGEB Regional Research Centre (RRC) in China
Applicants wishing to join the ICGEB China Regional Research Centre located in Taizhou should apply for a SMART PhD Fellowship. The application must clearly indicate that the candidate is applying under the Fellowships for Scientists in Biosecurity initiative.
Eligibility Requirements
- Applicants must either be citizens of an ICGEB Member State or belong to a country listed in the DAC list of ODA recipients.
- Eligible candidates are early to mid-career researchers or laboratory professionals with a background in biotechnology, showing a keen interest in Dual Use Research of Concern topics such as infectious diseases and gene editing technologies.
- Women scientists are strongly encouraged to apply in order to promote gender diversity within the program.
- Specifically for the China RRC fellowships under the SMART (Scientific Mobility for Advanced Research Training) scheme, only applicants from countries other than China are eligible.
- Educational qualifications:
- For Trieste and Cape Town fellowships: a Bachelor of Science degree with Honours is required.
- For New Delhi fellowships: a Master of Science degree is mandatory.
- For the ICGEB RRC in China: a Master’s degree or its equivalent is necessary.
- Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English. This should be supported by certification such as TOEFL, Cambridge Certificate, or equivalent. If English was the medium of instruction during the applicant’s prior education, an official certificate from the university confirming this will suffice, and no additional language test certificate is required.
Duration of Fellowship
The fellowship period is initially set for 2 months, with the possibility of extension up to 6 months contingent upon co-funding arrangements.
Financial Support and Benefits
| Location | Monthly Stipend |
|---|---|
| Trieste, Italy | €1,500 |
| New Delhi, India | US$ 1,122 |
| Cape Town, South Africa | ZAR 16,500 |
| Taizhou, China | US$ 1,500 |
- The fellowship package includes financial coverage for round-trip travel expenses from the fellow’s home country to the host institution and back upon completion of the program.
- Comprehensive medical insurance is provided throughout the fellowship duration.
- Costs related to visa or permit of stay applications and renewals will be reimbursed.
- It is important to note that the ICGEB does not allocate funds or administrative aid for accompanying family members.
Further Details and Application Access
For comprehensive information and to apply, prospective candidates should Visit the Official Webpage of the ICGEB Fellowships for Scientists in Biosecurity.
