Deadline: March 31, 2026
The ICGEB Arturo Falaschi PhD Fellowships 2026 offers one of the most comprehensive fully funded opportunities for aspiring scientists in the life sciences. This prestigious programme provides international PhD training across world-class laboratories, complete financial support, and access to global research ecosystems. Below is a detailed breakdown of everything applicants need to know.
About the ICGEB Arturo Falaschi PhD Fellowships 2026
The fellowship supports highly motivated students to undertake doctoral research in life sciences at one of the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) components. Successful candidates complete their PhD through partner universities, including:
- The Open University, United Kingdom
- University of Trieste, Italy
- University of Cape Town, South Africa
- Jawaharlal Nehru University, India
- University of Nova Gorica, Slovenia
This fellowship aims to empower early-career researchers from ICGEB Member States by equipping them with advanced training, mentorship, and global scientific exposure.
Benefits of the Fellowship
The fellowship is fully funded and provides exceptional support throughout the PhD period. Benefits include:
Monthly Stipend
- Italy (Trieste): €1,500
- India (New Delhi): US $1,122
- South Africa (Cape Town): ZAR 15,000
Additional Financial and Academic Support
- Full coverage of university tuition fees
- Medical health insurance throughout the fellowship
- Travel support, including:
- Travel from home country to host institution at the start of the programme
- Return travel upon successful completion
- Visa and residence permit reimbursement (application and renewal fees)
- Support for attending conferences, courses, or training workshops through the supervising research group
Note: The fellowship does not provide financial coverage for dependents or family members.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following conditions to apply for the ICGEB Arturo Falaschi PhD Fellowships 2026:
Citizenship
- Must be a national of an ICGEB Member State.
Academic Qualifications
- Trieste, Italy: BSc (Honours) degree required
- New Delhi, India & Cape Town, South Africa: MSc degree required
Language Requirements
- Good working knowledge of English
- A recognised English-language proficiency certificate is required unless prior education was completed in English
Age Limit
- For Italy/Trieste applicants: Must be under 32 years old at the time of application
- No age limit applies for India or South Africa applicants
Supervisor Pre-Approval Requirement
Before submitting the application, candidates must contact an ICGEB Group Leader/PI whose research aligns with their interests. Applicants are required to:
- Send a motivation letter
- Discuss a potential research project
- Obtain a written statement of support from the PI
This written support is mandatory for the application to be considered.
Required Application Documents (PDF Format)
- Complete CV
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates (with English translations if applicable)
- Valid passport or national ID (recommended passport validity: 12 months minimum)
- English-proficiency certificate (if required)
Application Deadline
- 31 March 2026
Opportunities for Applicants from Africa (Including Nigeria)
Applicants from African countries, including Nigeria, stand to benefit significantly from this opportunity. The fellowship eliminates financial barriers by providing a stipend, tuition waiver, insurance, travel support, and visa reimbursements. With strong English-language backgrounds and competitive academic profiles, many African applicants qualify strongly for this programme.
How to Apply
Follow the steps below to submit a strong application:
- Review ICGEB research groups and identify relevant labs.
- Write and send a motivation letter to your chosen PI.
- Discuss your proposed project and secure a written support statement.
- Prepare all academic and identification documents in PDF format.
- Submit your complete application before 31 March 2026.
Why You Should Apply
The ICGEB Arturo Falaschi PhD Fellowships 2026 offers:
- Fully funded world-class PhD training
- A strong international research environment
- Comprehensive financial support and professional development
- Access to laboratories with cutting-edge scientific facilities
This fellowship is one of the most competitive and rewarding programmes available to global researchers in life sciences.
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Application Links
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