Deadline: 15-Apr-2026
The International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) – South African Women in Biotechnology Programme (SAWBP) Postdoctoral Fellowship supports South African women scientists with a PhD to conduct two years of advanced biotechnology research at ICGEB Cape Town. Fellows receive a ZAR 320,000 annual stipend and ZAR 50,000 per year for research costs, with additional mobility support to visit ICGEB laboratories in Italy and India. Applications are submitted through the National Research Foundation of South Africa (NRF) with a deadline of 15 April 2026.
Overview
The ICGEB-SAWBP Postdoctoral Fellowship is a research programme designed to support high-potential South African women scientists in biotechnology and related fields.
The programme is offered through a partnership between:
• International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB)
• Department of Science, Technology and Innovation
• National Research Foundation of South Africa
The fellowship enables selected researchers to conduct hypothesis-driven scientific research at the ICGEB Cape Town Component, working in a collaborative international environment.
The initiative also aims to strengthen the participation and leadership of women scientists in biotechnology research.
Key Objectives of the Programme
The fellowship programme supports early-career researchers by:
• Promoting innovative biotechnology research
• Supporting women scientists in advanced scientific careers
• Strengthening research capacity in South Africa
• Encouraging international collaboration within the ICGEB network
• Developing advanced research and laboratory skills
Fellows work closely with leading scientists while contributing to cutting-edge research projects.
Research Areas and Scientific Focus
Proposed projects must fall within the major research themes of the ICGEB Cape Town Component.
Eligible research areas include:
Infectious Diseases
Research addressing pathogens, disease mechanisms, diagnostics, and therapeutic strategies for infectious diseases.
Non-Communicable Diseases
Studies related to genetic, molecular, and biological aspects of diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic disorders.
Bioinformatics
Computational biology approaches to analyze biological data, genomes, and molecular interactions.
Plant Systems Biology
Research focused on plant genetics, molecular biology, and systems approaches to understanding plant growth and resilience.
Biopesticides
Development of environmentally friendly pest control solutions using biological agents.
Virology
Research on viral pathogens, virus-host interactions, and strategies for prevention or treatment.
Projects must demonstrate innovation, scientific merit, and a clear research hypothesis.
Fellowship Duration and Location
The fellowship programme lasts two years.
During this period, fellows will conduct research at the ICGEB Cape Town Component located in South Africa.
Participants will work in advanced laboratory facilities alongside experienced researchers and international collaborators.
Fellowship Benefits and Financial Support
The fellowship provides financial support to enable full-time research.
Annual Stipend
• ZAR 320,000 per year (non-taxable)
Research Funding
• ZAR 50,000 per year for research expenses
Mobility Opportunities
Fellows may also receive additional funding to visit other ICGEB research centres, including:
• International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology in Italy
• International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology in India
These visits support scientific collaboration, training, and networking opportunities.
Who Is Eligible?
The programme specifically targets women researchers in South Africa.
Eligible applicants must:
• Be female applicants
• Be South African citizens or permanent residents
• Possess a valid South African ID number
• Hold a PhD in biotechnology or a related discipline
• Demonstrate strong research ability and academic potential
Priority Groups
Preference will be given to:
• Black South African applicants
• Applicants with disabilities
This aligns with national goals of promoting equity and inclusion in the scientific community.
Why This Fellowship Matters
Women remain underrepresented in many scientific leadership roles.
The ICGEB-SAWBP Postdoctoral Fellowship helps address this gap by:
• Supporting women’s participation in advanced research careers
• Strengthening biotechnology research capacity in South Africa
• Encouraging international collaboration and mobility
• Developing next-generation scientific leaders
The programme also contributes to solving critical global health and environmental challenges through biotechnology research.
How the Fellowship Works
The fellowship supports independent but supervised research projects.
Selected fellows will:
• Conduct hypothesis-driven laboratory research
• Collaborate with experienced ICGEB Group Leaders
• Participate in international scientific networks
• Develop advanced technical and analytical skills
Fellows also benefit from mentoring, knowledge exchange, and training opportunities.
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply for the fellowship.
Step 1: Identify an ICGEB Research Group
Applicants must select a research group at the ICGEB Cape Town laboratory that aligns with their research interests.
Step 2: Contact the Group Leader
Before applying, candidates must contact the Principal Investigator or Group Leader to discuss the proposed project.
Step 3: Obtain a Letter of Endorsement
Applicants must secure a written endorsement letter from the ICGEB Group Leader confirming their willingness to support the project.
This document is mandatory for the application.
Step 4: Prepare a Research Proposal
Applicants should develop a proposal describing:
• Research objectives
• Scientific methodology
• Expected outcomes and significance
Step 5: Submit the Application
Applications must be submitted through the NRF Postdoctoral Grants System, indicating ICGEB Cape Town as the host institution.
Applicants should consult the NRF Postdoctoral Fellowships Framework for full eligibility and application guidelines.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applicants should avoid the following issues when applying.
1. Not contacting the Group Leader early
Applicants must obtain endorsement before submission.
2. Submitting a weak research proposal
Proposals should demonstrate innovation, feasibility, and scientific relevance.
3. Choosing research outside ICGEB focus areas
Projects must align with the ICGEB Cape Town research themes.
4. Missing required documents
The Group Leader endorsement letter is mandatory.
5. Waiting until the deadline
Applicants should begin preparations early to secure collaborations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the ICGEB-SAWBP Postdoctoral Fellowship?
It is a two-year research fellowship for South African women scientists to conduct biotechnology research at ICGEB Cape Town.
2. Who funds the fellowship?
The programme is supported by ICGEB in partnership with the South African Department of Science, Technology and Innovation and the National Research Foundation of South Africa.
3. What financial support is provided?
Fellows receive:
• ZAR 320,000 per year stipend
• ZAR 50,000 per year research funding
• Additional international mobility support
4. What research areas are supported?
Projects must fall within areas such as infectious diseases, bioinformatics, virology, plant systems biology, biopesticides, or non-communicable diseases.
5. Who is eligible to apply?
Only female South African citizens or permanent residents with a PhD in biotechnology or a related discipline are eligible.
6. Is collaboration required?
Yes. Applicants must secure support from an ICGEB Cape Town Group Leader before applying.
7. What is the application deadline?
The deadline for applications is 15 April 2026.
Conclusion
The ICGEB-SAWBP Postdoctoral Fellowship provides a valuable opportunity for South African women researchers to advance their scientific careers in biotechnology.
Through financial support, international collaboration, and access to world-class research facilities at ICGEB Cape Town, the programme helps develop future leaders in biotechnology research while strengthening South Africa’s scientific ecosystem.
For more information, visit ICGEB.
