Are you an early-career researcher passionate about advancing multiple sclerosis (MS) research? The MSIF McDonald Fellowships 2026 offer a transformative opportunity for researchers from low- and middle-income countries to further their work with full funding support abroad. With a total grant of €110,000 over two years, this prestigious fellowship supports both research and professional development at world-class institutions.
Read on for complete details on eligibility, deadlines, and how to apply for the MSIF McDonald Fellowships 2026.
About the MSIF McDonald Fellowships 2026
The MSIF McDonald Fellowships 2026 are offered by the MS International Federation (MSIF) to support promising researchers from low- and middle-income countries who are committed to a career in MS research. The program enables recipients to work in a research institution outside their home country, fostering global collaboration and capacity-building in the field.
The fellowship is available in two funding streams:
- MSIF‑ECTRIMS McDonald Fellowship (co-funded with the European Committee for Treatment and Research in MS)
- MSIF‑FranceSEP McDonald Fellowship (co-funded with France Sclérose En Plaques)
Each fellow receives up to €55,000 per year for two years, paid directly to the host institution to cover living, travel, and research costs.
Fellowship Benefits
- Total Grant Value: €110,000 (€55,000 annually for 2 years)
- Host Institution Support: Funds are paid directly to the host to support the fellow
- Professional Exposure: Collaborate on cutting-edge MS research globally
- Training & Development: Access to advanced research resources and mentorship
- Publication Opportunities: Fellows contribute to journals, abstracts, and conferences
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for the MSIF McDonald Fellowships 2026, applicants must:
- Be a citizen of a low, lower-middle, or upper-middle income country (per World Bank classification)
- Hold at least an MSc in a relevant field (PhD/MD preferred)
- Plan a project related to multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Identify a host supervisor and institution outside their home country
Applicants must also meet one of the following additional criteria:
- Currently work or study in an eligible country
- Be abroad but started the current role/project within 6 months
- Be a current recipient of an MSIF Du Pré Grant
⚠️ Note: Former McDonald Fellowship recipients are not eligible to reapply.
Timeline and Deadlines
- Applications Open: July 1, 2025
- Deadline for Full Submission (application, host statement, reference letters): December 1, 2025
- Start of Fellowship: Must commence within 12 months of award confirmation
How to Apply
📝 Application Steps
- Identify a Host Supervisor and Institution
Collaborate with a host institution abroad willing to support your proposed MS research. - Prepare Your Online Application
Submit your application through MSIF’s official application portal. - Secure Required Documents
- Host supporting statement (submitted separately via emailed link)
- Three referee letters sent to: research@msif.org
- A 500-word lay summary explaining your project in simple, clear language
- Review the Programme Guidelines
For comprehensive fellowship information, eligibility policies, and evaluation criteria, click here to read more about the programme.
Reporting Requirements
Fellows must provide:
- A mid-term report at the end of Year 1
- A final report, expenditure summary, and any research outputs at the end of Year 2
These reports are essential for continued funding and impact assessment.
Grant Database Expert Tip
“The strongest McDonald Fellowship applications start with a clearly defined research question, a committed host supervisor, and a well-drafted lay summary. Your project should show promise for MS research advancement and capacity building in your home country after the fellowship ends.”
— GrantsDatabase.org Review Team
If you need help refining your proposal or aligning your documents to fit the fellowship’s exact criteria, contact GrantsDatabase.org for expert proposal drafting, refining, and review support.
Final Thoughts
The MSIF McDonald Fellowships 2026 represent a life-changing opportunity for young MS researchers from underrepresented regions. With a generous €110,000 in funding, global mentorship, and the chance to make meaningful contributions to the field, this program is a strategic step in advancing both your career and the fight against MS.
Don’t miss out—prepare early and apply for the MSIF McDonald Fellowships 2026!
