Biotechnet PhD Fellowships 2026 for African Students Worldwide

The Biotechnet PhD Fellowships 2026 under the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) are now open, offering a fully funded pathway to a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Life Sciences for eligible candidates from East Africa. Supported by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) under the BIOTECHNET II initiative, this programme aims to strengthen scientific capacity and advanced research training in the region.

Selected fellows will conduct research at ICGEB laboratories, with doctoral degrees awarded through partner institutions including the Open University (UK), University of Nova Gorica, University of Trieste, Jawaharlal Nehru University, and University of Cape Town.

The programme runs for three years, with the possibility of a one-year extension, and begins in 2026–2027 depending on the selected laboratory location.

Research Destinations and Start Dates

• ICGEB Trieste (Italy)
  Starting Date: 1 October 2026
  Degree Requirement: BSc (Honours)

• ICGEB New Delhi (India)
  Starting Date: 1 August 2026
  Degree Requirement: MSc

• ICGEB Cape Town (South Africa)
  Starting Date: 15 January 2027
  Degree Requirement: MSc

Funding Blueprint: What the Fellowship Covers?

This fellowship provides structured financial support to ensure scholars can focus fully on doctoral research without financial barriers.

• Monthly Stipend
  1. Trieste (Italy): Euro 1,500
  2. New Delhi (India): USD 1,122
  3. Cape Town (South Africa): ZAR 16,500
• Duration: 3-year PhD programme with the possibility of a 1-year extension
• Tuition Fees: Fully covered for the entire PhD registration period
• Travel: Round-trip travel from home country to host laboratory at the start and completion of the fellowship
• Medical Insurance: Health insurance coverage for the duration of the programme
• Visa Costs: Reimbursement of visa and residence permit application and renewal fees
• Academic Development: Support for participation in scientific meetings, courses, and external events, generally provided by the Group Leader/PI

ICGEB does not provide financial or administrative support for family members.

Who Can Apply: Eligibility Criteria Explained

This opportunity is specifically reserved for eligible East African candidates.

• Applicants must be nationals of Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, or Uganda
• Displaced researchers currently working in any of the four countries are considered eligible nationals
• Degree requirements:
  • Trieste: BSc (Honours) degree
  • New Delhi and Cape Town: MSc degree
• Good working knowledge of English
• English proficiency certificate (TOEFL, Cambridge, or equivalent), unless English was the official medium of instruction (official university confirmation required)
• No age limit

A written statement of support from an ICGEB Group Leader willing to supervise the proposed project is mandatory before submission.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Strategy for Success

The application process requires early academic coordination and complete documentation.

First, identify an ICGEB Group Leader whose research aligns with your academic interests. Contact them directly with a motivation letter to confirm laboratory availability and discuss your research proposal. Once agreed, obtain a written statement of support, which is compulsory for submission.

Next, prepare the required PDF documents:

• Full CV
• Academic transcripts and diploma certificates (with official English translations where necessary)
• Written statement from the ICGEB Group Leader
• Valid passport or identity document (recommended minimum 12-month validity)
• English proficiency certificate, if applicable

Submit only one complete online application (https://www.icgeb.org/fellowships/biotechnet-phd-fellowships-march-2026/) before the deadline. All applications are first transmitted to the respective ICGEB Liaison Officer in the applicant’s country for endorsement. Only endorsed applications are evaluated by the ICGEB Fellowships Selection Committee.

Selection is based on scientific merit of the proposed project, academic excellence, and potential contribution to the applicant’s home country.

Application Deadline

The last date to apply for the Biotechnet PhD Fellowships 2026 offered by the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) is 31 March 2026 at 23:59 CET. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

For qualified candidates from Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Uganda seeking internationally recognized doctoral training in life sciences, this fully funded fellowship provides a structured and research-driven pathway to advanced scientific careers.