MSIF’s McDonald Fellowships fund 2-year research placements for early-career researchers from low- and middle-income countries. Applications for the 2027 McDonald Fellowships will be accepted until 1 December 2028.
Application Deadline:
- 1 December 2026
Tell Me About The Fellowship.
The McDonald Fellowship, offered by the MS International Federation (MSIF), funds two‑year research placements for early‑career researchers from low‑ and middle‑income countries. Fellows work in a research institution outside their home country, gaining expertise or conducting joint research projects in multiple sclerosis (MS). The programme aims to build capacity, strengthen networks, and ensure fellows continue MS research and patient care in their home countries after completion.
Which Fields are Eligible?
Research areas must be relevant to multiple sclerosis, including:
- Clinical Research
- Neuroscience
- Biomedical Sciences
- Patient Care
Type:
- Fully Funded Research Fellowship | 2 Years | International Placement
Who can apply?
Applicants must:
- Hold at least an MSc (preferably PhD/MD) in a relevant field.
- Be citizens of a low‑ or middle‑income country (per World Bank classification).
- Focus research on multiple sclerosis.
- Have fewer than 5 years of postdoctoral research experience (career breaks considered).
- Be working/studying in a low‑ or middle‑income country OR working/studying abroad on a project started within 6 months of application.
- Previous Du Pré grant holders are eligible.
- Fellowship may also part‑fund a PhD programme if accepted within 6 months prior to application.
How are Fellows Selected?
- Selection by MSIF’s McDonald Fellowship panel (scientists, clinicians, and people affected by MS).
- Criteria include research relevance, potential impact for MS patients in low- and middle-income countries, and the applicant’s career trajectory.
Which Countries are Eligible?
- All low‑ and middle‑income countries worldwide.
Where will the fellowship be taken?
- Research institution outside applicant’s home country.
- The host institution must be agreed upon before the application.
How Many Fellows?
- Multiple awards annually, including:
- MSIF‑ECTRIMS McDonald Fellowship (partnership with ECTRIMS).
- MSIF‑FRANCESEP McDonald Fellowship (partnership with FranceSEP).
What is the benefit of the fellowship?
- €55,000 per year (2 years) – covers travel, living costs, and host institution contribution.
- One return flight to the host country.
- Access to international expertise, networks, and collaboration.
- Opportunity to continue MS research and patient care in home country after fellowship.
How Long Will the Fellowship Last?
- Two years.
Required Documents:
- Completed online application form.
- Project proposal agreed with host supervisor.
- Host supporting statement (submitted after applicant’s form).
- Two referee letters sent to [email protected] before deadline.
- 500‑word lay summary of research proposal.
How to Apply:
- Identify project and host supervisor.
- Agree on the project proposal with the host.
- Complete online application form.
- Host submits supporting statement.
- Referees send letters to [email protected] before 1 December 2026.
- Read and sign the Terms & Conditions of the award.
🌐 Visit the application webpage for details
