Deadline: 15-Jun-2026
The TWAS–CUI Fellowship Programme is an international PhD opportunity hosted at COMSATS University Islamabad in Pakistan. It is designed to strengthen research capacity in developing countries by training early-career scientists in advanced academic and research environments.
The programme is conducted in English and focuses on building long-term scientific and academic expertise in key research disciplines.
Objectives of the Fellowship
The programme aims to:
- Strengthen research capacity in developing countries
- Support advanced PhD education and training
- Promote scientific and academic development
- Encourage international research collaboration
- Build expertise in natural, applied, and social sciences
- Contribute to global scientific knowledge production
Eligible Fields of Study
The fellowship supports PhD research in the following disciplines:
- Computer Science
- Computer Engineering
- Interdisciplinary Research Centre in Biomedical Materials (IRCBM)
- Mathematics
- Environmental Sciences
- Biotechnology
- Chemistry
- Pharmacy
- Management Sciences
- Development Studies
Funding and Benefits
Selected fellows receive financial and academic support including:
- Monthly stipend for living expenses
- Coverage for food and accommodation
- Health insurance support
- Support during PhD study period
Important Note
- The stipend is not convertible into foreign currency
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Must be a national of a developing country (excluding Pakistan)
- Must not be residing in Pakistan
- Must not hold residency (temporary or permanent) in Pakistan or any developed country
- Must be under 35 years of age as of 31 December of the application year
Academic Requirements
Applicants must hold:
- MSc degree in a relevant field of natural sciences, OR
- MSc degree in a relevant social science discipline (for social science applicants)
- Strong academic and research background in the chosen field
Language Requirement
- The medium of instruction is English
- Applicants must be able to conduct academic research and communication in English
Key Features of the Programme
The fellowship includes:
- Full-time PhD study at COMSATS University Islamabad
- Research-focused academic training
- International academic environment
- Supervision by experienced faculty members
- Exposure to interdisciplinary research opportunities
Selection Focus
Applicants are evaluated based on:
- Academic excellence and research potential
- Relevance of prior MSc research
- Strength of proposed research area
- Alignment with eligible disciplines
- Commitment to contributing to development in home country
Why This Fellowship Matters
The TWAS–CUI Fellowship is important because it:
- Builds scientific capacity in developing countries
- Provides access to high-quality PhD education
- Encourages global research collaboration
- Supports emerging scientists in critical disciplines
- Strengthens research-driven development pathways
- Helps bridge knowledge gaps in science and technology
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the TWAS–CUI Fellowship Programme?
- It is a PhD scholarship for students from developing countries to study at COMSATS University Islamabad in Pakistan.
- Who can apply for this fellowship?
- Nationals of developing countries (excluding Pakistan) under 35 years old with an MSc degree in a relevant field.
- What fields are covered under the programme?
- Fields include Computer Science, Mathematics, Biotechnology, Environmental Sciences, Chemistry, Pharmacy, Management Sciences, and Development Studies.
- What financial support is provided?
- A monthly stipend covering living expenses such as food, accommodation, and health insurance.
- Is the fellowship available to residents of Pakistan or developed countries?
- No, applicants must not hold residency in Pakistan or any developed country.
- What is the language of instruction?
- English is the medium of instruction for the PhD programme.
- What is the main goal of the fellowship?
- To strengthen research capacity and support advanced scientific training for scholars from developing countries.
Conclusion
The TWAS–COMSATS University Islamabad Fellowship Programme provides a valuable opportunity for young scientists from developing countries to pursue PhD studies in Pakistan. By combining financial support, research training, and international academic exposure, the programme helps build strong scientific capacity and fosters long-term academic and research development.
For more information, visit TWAS.