The MSIF McDonald Fellowships support early career researchers from low- and middle-income countries to gain valuable research experience abroad. The fully funded program offers a 2-year grant to work in top research institutions outside their home country.
The fellowship focuses on multiple sclerosis (MS) research. It enables recipients to develop new expertise or collaborate on joint projects with international mentors. The goal is to advance MS research and patient care in low- and middle-income countries.
Each fellowship provides 55,000 EUR annually, paid to the host institution to cover salary and research costs. Special partnerships with ECTRIMS and FranceSEP also offer dedicated fellowships.
Recipients are expected to return to their home countries after the fellowship to apply their new skills, build networks, and improve care and research in MS locally.
Quick Overview of MSIF McDonald Fellowships 2026
- Host Country: International (outside applicant’s home country)
- Duration: 2 years
- Value: 55,000 EUR per year (total 110,000 EUR)
- Deadline: December 1, 2025
- Eligibility: Early career researchers with an MSc or PhD from low- and middle-income countries
- Focus: Research related to multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Application: Joint application with host institution and supervisor
Perks of the Fully Funded Research Fellowships
- Two-year fully funded research placement abroad
- Competitive annual grant paid through the host institution
- Support for salary, travel, accommodation, insurance, and research expenses
- Opportunity to develop expertise and build global research networks
- Attend the annual ECTRIMS Congress (funded in the second year)
- Close mentorship and support from international host supervisors
- Chance to contribute significantly to MS research in low- and middle-income countries
Benefits of McDonald Fellowship for International Students
- Gain advanced skills and knowledge to improve MS care at home
- Build international collaborations that enhance future research opportunities
- Strengthen local research capacity and clinical expertise in MS
- Publish and present research findings in international forums
- Enhance career development and global scientific visibility
- Empower local healthcare systems with cutting-edge MS knowledge
Fellows contribute to a growing global effort to address MS challenges in underserved regions. In the long run, this fellowship helps foster innovation and improve patient outcomes worldwide.
Exclusions of MSIF McDonald Fellowships
- Fellowship covers only the awarded researcher, not family or dependents
- Must have an approved host and project before applying
- Applications lacking host support or references will be rejected
- Cannot transfer fellowship without MSIF approval
- Funding is not provided for non-research activities or unrelated projects
Eligibility Criteria for International MS Research Fellowships
- Postgraduate qualification (MSc minimum, preferably PhD/MD) in MS-related field
- Citizens of a low- or middle-income country as defined by the World Bank
- Working or studying in a low- or middle-income country at application or within 6 months prior
- Research focus must relate to multiple sclerosis
- Must have identified a host institution and supervisor outside their home country
- Previous Du Pré grant holders are eligible for the McDonald Fellowship, but not vice versa
- Expected to return to the home country after the fellowship to continue MS work
Important Dates for Multiple Sclerosis Research Grant
- Application Deadline: December 1, 2025
- Host Supporting Statement Deadline: December 1, 2025
- Reference Letters Deadline: December 1, 2025
- Notification: After review of all applications
How to Apply to MSIF McDonald Fellowships 2026
- Identify a research project and agree with a host supervisor outside your country.
- Complete the online application form on MSIF’s application portal.
- Submit your application well before the deadline to allow the host to provide a supporting statement.
- Ask three referees to email reference letters to research@msif.org before the deadline.
- Review and accept the terms and conditions of the award.
- Submit the completed application by December 1, 2025.
Required Documents for Fellowship for International Students
- Postgraduate degree certificate (MSc or PhD)
- Detailed project proposal with host supervisor approval
- Host supporting statement (submitted by the host after your application)
- Three reference letters sent directly by referees to MSIF
- Personal identification document (passport or official ID)
