ICGEB provides postgraduate opportunities for East African scientists to pursue a PhD in life sciences. Supported by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) through the BIOTECHNET II initiative, funding is available for candidates from Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Uganda applying for ICGEB PhD Fellowships.
Application Deadline:
- 31 March 2026 at 23:59 CET
Tell Me About The Award:
The International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), with support from the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) under the BIOTECHNET II initiative, offers PhD fellowships in life sciences for candidates from East Africa. The program provides advanced training and research opportunities leading to the award of a PhD degree, hosted at ICGEB laboratories in Trieste (Italy), New Delhi (India), or Cape Town (South Africa), in collaboration with partner universities.
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Which Fields are Eligible?
- Life sciences and biotechnology research areas under ICGEB Group Leaders.
- Specific project areas depend on the chosen laboratory and supervisor.
Type:
- PhD Fellowship | Fully Funded | 3-year program (with possible 1-year extension).
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be nationals of Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, or Uganda (displaced researchers working in these countries are also eligible).
- Hold a BSc (Honours) for Trieste placements, or an MSc for New Delhi and Cape Town placements.
- Demonstrate proficiency in English (TOEFL, Cambridge Certificate, or equivalent; waived if English was the medium of instruction with official certification).
- Contact an ICGEB Group Leader/PI with a motivation letter to secure a written statement of support (mandatory for application).
- There is no age limit.
How are Applicants Selected?
- Applications are endorsed by the ICGEB Liaison Officer in the applicant’s country.
- Selection is made by the ICGEB Fellowships Selection Committee, based on:
- Scientific excellence of the proposed project.
- Candidate’s CV and academic merit.
- Potential benefit for the applicant’s home country.
- Only complete and endorsed applications are considered.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Uganda.
Where will the Award be Taken?
- ICGEB Trieste (Italy) – starting 1 October 2026
- ICGEB New Delhi (India) – starting 1 August 2026
- ICGEB Cape Town (South Africa) – starting 15 January 2027
How Many Awards?
- Not specified (limited fellowships available under BIOTECHNET II funding).
What is the Benefit of the Award?
- Monthly stipend:
- Trieste: €1,500
- New Delhi: US$1,122
- Cape Town: ZAR 16,500
- Full tuition fees covered.
- Travel expenses (home country to host lab and return).
- Medical health insurance.
- Visa/permit application and renewal costs reimbursed.
- Support for participation in external meetings, courses, and events (via Group Leader/PI).
- Accommodation support varies by location (guest house in New Delhi, support in Cape Town, housing contacts in Trieste).
How Long Will the Award Last?
- 3 years, with the possibility of a 1-year extension.
How to Apply:
- Contact an ICGEB Group Leader/PI with a motivation letter to secure a written statement of support.
- Complete the online application via the ICGEB portal (only one application per call is accepted).
- Upload required documents (PDF format):
- Full CV
- Academic records (certificates and transcripts with official seals/signatures + English translation)
- Written statement from Group Leader
- Valid ID/passport (minimum 12 months validity)
- English proficiency certificate (if applicable)
- Submit before 31 March 2026 at 23:59 CET.
