Deadline: September 19, 2025
The ICGEB SAWBP PhD Fellowship 2025 – Second Call is now open for applications. This prestigious fellowship, offered by the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) in collaboration with the South African Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, is dedicated to empowering women in biotechnology research.
If you are a female South African citizen or permanent resident with a strong interest in biotechnology, this opportunity offers a fully funded PhD programme with excellent research support, mentorship, and international exposure.
Fellowship Overview
- Fellowship Name: ICGEB South African Women in Biotechnology Programme (SAWBP) PhD Fellowship 2025 – Second Call
- Deadline: 19 September 2025
- Host Institution: ICGEB Cape Town Component, in partnership with the South African Department of Science, Technology and Innovation
- Fellowship Duration: 3 years
- Stipend & Benefits:
- Tuition fees covered at the University of Cape Town
- Annual stipend of ZAR 219,749 (stipend disbursed after tuition fees)
- Mobility funds to visit other ICGEB Components in Trieste (Italy) and New Delhi (India)
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Female applicants only
- South African citizens or Permanent Residents with a valid South African ID
- Preference will be given to Black and disabled women
- Must hold an MSc degree, or provide evidence of thesis submission with confirmation that the degree will be awarded before the fellowship commences
Research Areas
The fellowship supports doctoral research in the following focus areas:
- Infectious Diseases
- Non-Communicable Diseases
- Bioinformatics
- Plant Systems Biology
- Virology
Application Requirements
All applicants must submit a complete application package including:
- Copy of South African ID
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Detailed PhD project proposal
- Mandatory: Letter of endorsement from an ICGEB Cape Town Group Leader (you must contact them in advance to discuss your proposed project)
- Proof of MSc degree, or official letter confirming intention to submit MSc thesis
Quick Reference Guide
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Deadline | 19 September 2025 |
| Eligibility | Female, South African citizen or permanent resident (Black & disabled applicants prioritised) |
| Research Areas | Infectious Diseases, Non-Communicable Diseases, Bioinformatics, Plant Systems Biology, Virology |
| Duration | 3 years |
| Funding Support | Tuition, ZAR 219,749 annual stipend, mobility allowance |
| Key Requirement | Endorsement letter from an ICGEB Cape Town Group Leader |
Next Steps for Applicants
- Contact a Group Leader at ICGEB Cape Town as early as possible to discuss your doctoral project and secure an endorsement letter.
- Prepare all required documents including your project proposal, CV, proof of MSc degree, and ID.
- Submit your full application package before the deadline of 19 September 2025.
Useful Links
The ICGEB SAWBP PhD Fellowship 2025 – Second Call is a life-changing opportunity for women in South Africa to advance their careers in biotechnology while contributing to global research. Don’t miss your chance to apply.
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