Role Type: Postdoctoral Research Fellowship
Locations: Trieste (Italy) | New Delhi (India) | Cape Town (South Africa)
Duration: 2 Years (Extendable to 3)
Stipend: Up to €2,300/month (varies by location)
Deadline: March 31, 2026
Start Date: October 1, 2026
Overview of the Opportunity
The International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) is inviting applications for the Arturo Falaschi Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme. This prestigious scheme supports early-career life science researchers from ICGEB Member States who wish to pursue cutting-edge research in a globally recognized scientific environment.
This is not just a funding grant; it is an opportunity to work in world-class laboratories. The fellowship is designed to strengthen scientific capacity in Member States by training the next generation of scientists in biotechnology and related life science fields.
Fellowship Locations & Financial Benefits
Fellows can choose to be hosted at one of the three major ICGEB research centres. The financial package covers a competitive monthly stipend, medical insurance, and visa reimbursement.
1. Trieste, Italy 🇮🇹
- Stipend: €2,300 per month
- Housing: Fellows receive contact lists to secure housing independently.
2. New Delhi, India 🇮🇳
- Stipend: $1,749 USD per month
- Housing: Access to a campus guest house is provided.
3. Cape Town, South Africa 🇿🇦
- Stipend: ZAR 27,500 per month
- Housing: Accommodation is arranged prior to arrival.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?
This fellowship has strict nationality and mobility rules. Please ensure you meet all requirements before applying.
1. Nationality & Mobility
- Citizenship: You must be a national of an ICGEB Member State.
- Mobility Rule: You cannot undertake the fellowship in your home country (unless you have lived abroad for at least 3 years immediately prior to application). This program encourages international mobility.
2. Academic & Age Profile
- Education: Must hold a recent PhD in Life Sciences OR have at least 3 years of research experience.
- Age: Preference is given to candidates under 35 years of age.
How to Apply: The "Group Leader" Rule
You cannot simply submit an application form. You must first secure a host.
Step 1: Contact a Group Leader
Browse the ICGEB website and identify a Group Leader or Principal Investigator (PI) at your preferred host centre whose research aligns with yours. You must contact them directly with a motivation letter.
Step 2: Define the Project
If the Group Leader is interested, you will jointly define a research project. You must confirm that laboratory space is available.
Step 3: Get the Statement
You must obtain a written statement of support from the Group Leader. This document is mandatory for your application.
Step 4: Liaison Officer Endorsement
After you submit your online application, it will be forwarded to your country’s ICGEB Liaison Officer for endorsement. Without this government-level endorsement, your application will not proceed.
Required Documents
- Complete Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Academic degrees and transcripts (with English translations).
- Written statement from the ICGEB Group Leader.
- Valid Identity Document (Passport).
- English language proficiency certificate (if applicable).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I apply if I don't have a PhD yet?
A: Yes, if you can document at least three years of research experience in Life Sciences.
Q: Does the fellowship support my family?
A: No. The fellowship does not provide family-related financial or administrative support (e.g., for spouses or children).
Q: When does the fellowship start?
A: All fellowships commence on October 1, 2026. This date is fixed.
How to Apply
Ready to advance your career in Life Sciences? Start by contacting a Group Leader today.