TWAS-CUI Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme 2026: A Guide for International Researchers
The TWAS-CUI Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme 2026 offers a valuable opportunity for young scientists from developing countries to conduct research. This program, hosted by COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI) in Pakistan, aims to support early-career researchers in advancing their knowledge in various scientific fields. This guide provides detailed information about the fellowship, including eligibility, research areas, benefits, and the application process.
Programme Overview
This fellowship is designed for postdoctoral researchers from developing countries, excluding Pakistan. The program allows participants to conduct research at COMSATS University Islamabad for up to six months. An additional six-month extension is possible, but it does not include financial support. The fellowship is administered by The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) and COMSATS University Islamabad.
Key Programme Facts
- Host Institution: COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI), Pakistan
- Administered by: The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS)
- Duration: Up to 6 months, with a potential 6-month extension without financial support.
- Opening Date: May 8, 2026
- Closing Date: June 15, 2026
- Level: Postdoctoral
- Minimum Degree Required: PhD obtained within the last 5 years.
- Language of Instruction: English
- Eligible Applicants: Nationals of developing countries (excluding Pakistan).
Fields of Research Available
COMSATS University Islamabad offers a broad spectrum of research areas. These fall under natural sciences, applied sciences, and selected social sciences.
Natural and Applied Sciences
The fellowship covers research in fields such as:
- Computer Science
- Computer Engineering
- Interdisciplinary Research Centre in Biomedical Materials (IRCBM)
- Mathematics
- Environmental Sciences
- Biotechnology
- Chemistry
- Pharmacy
These areas align with TWAS’s scientific categories, including interdisciplinary sciences, biological systems, chemical sciences, engineering sciences, astronomy, space and earth sciences, mathematical sciences, and physics.
Social and Economic Sciences
Research opportunities are also available in:
- Management Science
- Development Studies
Fellowship Benefits
The TWAS-CUI Postdoctoral Fellowship provides a monthly stipend. This allowance is intended to help cover living expenses during the fellowship period.
What the Stipend Covers
The stipend is meant to assist with costs such as:
- Food
- Accommodation
- Health insurance
- Local living expenses
It is important to note that the stipend cannot be converted into foreign currency. Furthermore, no stipend is provided for the optional extension period.
Acceptance Letter Requirement
A critical part of the application process is obtaining a Preliminary Acceptance Letter from a supervisor at CUI. This letter confirms that a faculty member has agreed to host you for your research.
Steps to Obtain an Acceptance Letter
- Review Supervisor Lists: Examine the lists of available host supervisors, which are typically provided as PDFs on the TWAS website.
- Contact Potential Supervisors: Reach out to supervisors whose research interests align with yours to discuss your proposed research project.
- Request the Letter: If a supervisor agrees to host you, formally request the acceptance letter. This request should be directed to Mr. Kashif Masood, Deputy Registrar (International), via email at [email protected].
Ensure that the acceptance letter you receive is dated within the same year as your application. Older letters will not be considered valid.
Application Process
All applications for the TWAS-CUI Postdoctoral Fellowship must be submitted online through the TWAS portal. It is essential to have all required documents ready before starting the online application.
Required Documents for Application
- Acceptance Letter: The Preliminary Acceptance Letter from your CUI supervisor.
- Reference Letters: Signed reference letters submitted on official letterhead.
- Online Application Form: The completed application form accessed through the TWAS portal.
- Academic Documents: Supporting documents related to your academic history and qualifications.
Important Application Notes
Applications that do not include an acceptance letter will not be processed. Reference letters must be uploaded directly through the online portal. All application materials must be submitted by the deadline of June 15, 2026.
Contact Information
For inquiries regarding the fellowship, you can reach out to the TWAS Fellowships Office or COMSATS University Islamabad.
TWAS Fellowships Office
- Address: ICTP Campus, Strada Costiera 11 34151 Trieste, Italy
- Telephone: +39 040 2240-3555
- Email: [email protected]
COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI)
- Contact Person: Mr. Kashif Masood, Deputy Registrar (International)
- Address: Park Road, Tarlai Kalan Islamabad 45550, Pakistan
- Telephone: (+9251) 9049 5272
- Fax: (+9251) 924 7010
- Email: [email protected]
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the TWAS-CUI Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026?
The fellowship is open to postdoctoral researchers from developing countries, excluding Pakistan, who have obtained their PhD within the last five years.
What does the fellowship cover?
The fellowship provides a monthly stipend to help with living expenses such as food, accommodation, and health insurance during the research period.
How do I get an acceptance letter from a CUI supervisor?
You need to review the list of supervisors, contact those whose research matches yours, and if they agree to host you, request an official acceptance letter.
Where do I submit my application?
All applications must be submitted online through the TWAS portal before the deadline of June 15, 2026.
