The International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) has officially launched its call for the 2026 Biosecurity Fellowships, targeting scientists eager to tackle global health security.
This initiative provides specialized training in the life sciences, specifically focusing on the detection and response to biological threats.
Participants will be embedded in world-class laboratories across three continents, with placements available in Italy, India, South Africa, and China.
The Biosecurity Fellowships is designed to foster South-South cooperation and international research standards to improve global pandemic preparedness.
This initiative is co-funded by the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation through the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) and the BWC ISU.
It represents a significant effort to bridge the gap in technical expertise for countries facing biological risks.
Funding and benefits
Selected fellows will receive a monthly stipend tailored to their host country, ranging from Euro 1,500 in Trieste, Italy, to US$ 1,500 at the Regional Research Centre in China.
TheBiosecurity Fellowships typically lasts two months, though extensions up to six months are possible through co-funding mechanisms.
The program covers full travel expenses from the participant’s home country to the host laboratory and back.
Additionally, fellows receive medical health insurance coverage and reimbursement for costs associated with visa or permit applications.
For those placed in China, a bench fee allowance is provided to the host laboratory to cover essential consumables, such as chemicals and molecular biology kits.
However, the ICGEB does not provide financial or administrative support for family members accompanying participants.
Application requirements and eligibility
The call is open to early and mid-career scientists who are nationals of ICGEB Member States or ODA recipient countries.
Applicants should possess a background in biotechnologies and an interest in “Dual Use Research of Concern,” such as gene editing or infectious diseases.
Women scientists are particularly encouraged to apply to promote gender parity in the life sciences.
Depending on the location, degree requirements vary: applicants for Italy or South Africa need a BSc (Honours), while those for India or China must hold an MSc or equivalent.
Applicants must demonstrate a strong command of English, supported by a proficiency certificate like TOEFL or Cambridge.
Crucially, candidates applying to Italy, India, or South Africa must secure a mandatory written statement of support from an ICGEB Group Leader prior to submission.
Deadline
The application window is strictly time-bound, with all materials required to be submitted through the online portal by 31 March 2026, at 23:59 CET.
Incomplete applications or those missing mandatory support letters from host laboratories will not be considered by the selection committee.
Visit the Biosecurity Fellowships call page to apply. Explore our global opportunities page for more.
Summary not available at this time.
