Imperial College London is now accepting applications for its Global Development Fellowship Programme. The scheme is designed to support short-term, high-impact research placements for PhD students from Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Lower Middle-Income Countries (LMICs).
Aim
The initiative aims to strengthen doctoral training by exposing participants to new skills, experimental techniques, and interdisciplinary teamwork. It also supports the development of globally minded researchers who can communicate effectively, collaborate across cultures and contribute to international scientific communities.
Fellows are expected to return to their home universities with enhanced research capacity, stronger professional networks and increased confidence in initiating collaborative research.
Funding
Selected students will undertake a two- to four-month placement at Imperial between March and July 2026.
Each participant will receive:
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A non-taxable stipend of $1,900 per month.
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A $200 welcome payment.
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Return economy-class flights.
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Visa support, including assistance with travel to visa centres.
Host departments will waive tuition fees, and Imperial supervisors will receive $1,000 for consumables to support the research placement.
Fellows gain access to world-class laboratories, expert mentorship and international exposure that significantly enrich their PhD training.
Who can apply
The programme targets PhD students with strong academic potential and a clear need for training not available at their home institutions.
Eligibility criteria:
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Currently enrolled in a PhD programme.
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Citizen and permanent resident of an LDC or LMIC.
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At least 12 months into PhD studies by the placement start date.
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Able to secure support from an Imperial host supervisor.
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Adequate English proficiency (confirmed by referees).
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Not a dual British citizen.
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Not studying or residing outside LDC/LMIC countries.
Application requirements
Applicants must submit:
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A letter of support from an Imperial host, co-signed by the Head of Department, confirming training suitability and fee waivers
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A letter of recommendation from their home supervisor attesting to academic merit and English proficiency
Proposed hosts must be permanent Imperial staff members and must develop a clear work plan for the visiting student. Some applicants may also be required to obtain an ATAS certificate, depending on the research area.
Deadline
Visit the Imperial College London website to apply before the deadline on November 28, 2025.
Discover more global PhD fellowships on our Opportunities page.
Summary not available at this time.
