Deadline: 27-Apr-2026
Department of Science and Technology–Philippine Council for Health Research and Development, in collaboration with University of Toronto Temerty Faculty of Medicine, is offering a one-year Postdoctoral Fellowship on Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD). The fellowship provides up to ₱1.5 million in support plus additional funding, covering research training in Canada.
Overview of the Fellowship
This international postdoctoral programme focuses on advancing research in Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD), a growing global health concern linked to metabolic disorders.
The fellowship offers early-career Filipino scientists an opportunity to gain hands-on research experience in a world-class academic setting in Canada.
Research Focus Areas
The programme covers:
- Mechanisms and progression of MASLD
- Precision-cut human liver slice research
- Diabetes therapeutics (GLP-1 receptor agonists, SGLT2 inhibitors)
- Global health and disease patterns
- MASLD in the Philippine context
- Research capacity strengthening and collaboration
The research is led by Herbert Gaisano at the University of Toronto Temerty Faculty of Medicine.
Programme Details
- Duration: 1 year
- Location: Canada
- Host institution: University of Toronto Temerty Faculty of Medicine
- Number of positions: 1 (for 2026)
Funding & Benefits
Selected fellows will receive:
- Up to ₱1.5 million from Department of Science and Technology–Philippine Council for Health Research and Development
- Additional funding from the host university
- Living allowance
- Health and accident insurance
- Round-trip airfare (Philippines–Canada)
- School-related fees
- One-time pre-departure allowance
Who is Eligible?
Applicants must:
- Be Filipino citizens
- Be 50 years old or below
- Be in good health
- Hold a recent MD-PhD or PhD (health, molecular biology, or related fields)
Additional requirements:
- Must have completed return service obligations (if previous DOST-PCHRD scholar)
- Must pass screening and selection procedures
- Must commit full-time (no other employment allowed)
What the Programme Supports
The fellowship supports:
- Advanced biomedical research training
- International collaboration
- Exposure to cutting-edge laboratory techniques
- Capacity building for future health research leaders
What is Not Supported
The programme does NOT support:
- Applicants without relevant doctoral qualifications
- Non-Filipino applicants
- Individuals engaged in other employment during the fellowship
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Review eligibility and research alignment
- Prepare academic and research documents
- Demonstrate experience in relevant fields
- Submit application to Department of Science and Technology–Philippine Council for Health Research and Development
- Undergo screening and selection
- Complete pre-departure requirements if selected
Why It Matters
This fellowship is important because:
- MASLD is an emerging global health issue
- It strengthens research capacity in the Philippines
- It fosters international scientific collaboration
- It supports development of future health research leaders
- It contributes to initiatives like the Philippine Liver Research Network
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not meeting eligibility criteria (citizenship, age, degree)
- Weak alignment with MASLD research
- Incomplete documentation
- Lack of commitment to full-time participation
Tips for a Strong Application
- Highlight research experience in liver disease or metabolic health
- Demonstrate interest in global health and collaboration
- Align your proposal with MASLD priorities
- Showcase technical and laboratory skills
- Clearly state long-term research goals
FAQ
What is this fellowship about?
It supports postdoctoral research on Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease in Canada.
Who can apply?
Filipino citizens with recent MD-PhD or PhD degrees in relevant fields.
How long is the fellowship?
One year.
What funding is provided?
Up to ₱1.5 million plus additional support from the host institution.
Where will the research take place?
At the University of Toronto Temerty Faculty of Medicine.
Is this a full-time programme?
Yes, fellows must commit fully and cannot take other employment.
Conclusion
This fellowship by Department of Science and Technology–Philippine Council for Health Research and Development and University of Toronto Temerty Faculty of Medicine is a prestigious opportunity for Filipino researchers. It combines international exposure, advanced research training, and strong financial support to build expertise in a critical global health field.
For more information, visit DOST-PCHRD.