TWAS Doctoral Fellowship 2026 | Fully Funded PhD Opportunities

TWAS Doctoral Fellowship 2026 | Fully Funded PhD Opportunities

The TWAS Doctoral Fellowship Programme 2026 is now open for international students seeking to pursue PhD or doctoral-level research at leading institutions in the Global South. This prestigious programme offers fully funded opportunities, including a monthly stipend to cover essential living expenses such as housing, food, and healthcare.

For many developing and Least Developed Countries, cultivating a new generation of PhD-trained scientists is crucial to building national capacity in science and technology, ultimately fostering economic development and societal well-being. TWAS annually awards between 100 and 160 doctoral fellowships at top-tier institutions in Brazil, China, India, Pakistan, and South Africa.

About TWAS

TWAS – The World Academy of Sciences – is an international science academy based in Trieste, Italy. Established in 1983 by a group of eminent scientists from the developing world, including Nobel laureate Abdus Salam of Pakistan, TWAS promotes sustainable development through scientific excellence in research, education, policy, and diplomacy. The Academy continues to receive strong support from the Italian government and academic community.

Fellowship Overview

• Level of Study: PhD / Doctoral Research

• Host Institutions: TWAS Partner Institutions in Brazil, China, India, Pakistan, and South Africa

• Duration: Up to 3 years

• Application Deadline: Varies by programme (see official website)

Fields of Study

Applicants may apply in the following scientific disciplines:

• Agricultural Sciences

• Structural, Cell and Molecular Biology

• Biological Systems and Organisms

• Medical and Health Sciences (including Neurosciences)

• Chemical Sciences

• Engineering Sciences

• Astronomy, Space and Earth Sciences

• Mathematical Sciences

• Physics

Fellowship Benefits

Successful candidates will receive:

• Tuition fee coverage (Partial Cost of Study funding)

• Monthly living allowance

• Accommodation support

• Round-trip economy airfare (most affordable option)

• Visa and/or study permit fee reimbursement

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the TWAS Doctoral Fellowship, applicants must:

• Be from a developing country (excluding EU nations) – View eligible countries

• Be proficient in English

• Meet the specific eligibility criteria set by the chosen host institution

• Apply only to one TWAS or OWSD programme per calendar year (Note: the only exception is for institution heads inviting scholars under TWAS Visiting Professor Programmes)

How to Apply

1. Applications must be submitted through the official online application portal once the call is open.

2. Navigate to the relevant programme page and click “Apply now” to begin.

3. Be sure to note the specific opening and closing dates listed on each individual programme page.

4. Applicants should request a preliminary acceptance letter from their chosen host institution as early as possible. Only acceptance letters dated for the same year as the application will be accepted.

5. Multiple applications in the same year across TWAS and OWSD programmes are not permitted.

APPLY HERE