The TWAS-ICCBS Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme 2025 offers early-career scientists from developing countries (excluding Pakistan) the chance to advance their research in the natural sciences. Hosted at the International Centre for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS) in Karachi, Pakistan, the fully funded fellowship helps young researchers grow their expertise in fields like organic chemistry, biotechnology, pharmacology, and molecular medicine.
Organized by TWAS – The World Academy of Sciences in partnership with ICCBS, the program supports international scientific collaboration and aims to build research capacity in the Global South. Fellows will join top scientists at the H.E.J. Research Institute of Chemistry and the Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular and Drug Research for a minimum of 6 months and up to 12 months.
The program includes a monthly stipend to cover food, housing, local travel, and minor health needs. The working language is English, and participants are expected to return to their home countries to apply their new knowledge.
Quick Overview of TWAS-ICCBS Postdoctoral Fellowship 2025
- Host Country: Pakistan
- Host Institution: ICCBS, University of Karachi
- Duration: 6 to 12 months
- Application Deadline: 14 August 2025
- Fields Covered: Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Molecular Medicine, Pharmacology, Physical Chemistry
- Funding: Fully funded (monthly stipend)
- Eligibility: Scientists from developing countries (except Pakistan)
- Age Limit: 45 years (as of 31 December 2025)
- Application Mode: Online only
Perks of the Fully Funded Research Fellowship in Pakistan
- Monthly Stipend to cover living costs (food, housing, local transport, minor illnesses)
- Research Collaboration with ICCBS’s expert faculty and global scientific community
- Access to Advanced Facilities at one of the leading chemical and biological sciences centers in Asia
- International Exposure in a diverse and collaborative research environment
- Career Advancement through hands-on training and knowledge exchange
- No Tuition or Application Fees
Benefits of TWAS-ICCBS Postdoctoral Fellowship
- Work in advanced labs and learn new techniques in your field
- Boost your academic resume and build research partnerships
- Gain experience in international scientific environments
- Build relationships with researchers across the Global South
- Apply your new knowledge in your home country upon return
Exclusions of the TWAS Fellowships for Developing Countries
- Pakistani nationals cannot apply
- Applicants with permanent or temporary visas for Pakistan or developed countries are not eligible
- Family expenses or dependent costs are not covered
- Applicants must not take up other work or fellowships during the program
Eligibility Criteria of the Fully Funded Fellowship for International Students
- Must be a national of a developing country (other than Pakistan)
- Must hold a PhD in a natural science discipline
- Must be employed in a research position in a developing country
- Must be 45 years old or younger by 31 December 2025
- Must not hold any residency or visa for Pakistan or a developed country
- Must submit a certificate of good health
- Must obtain a preliminary acceptance letter from ICCBS
- Must provide proof of English proficiency if your education was not in English
- Must commit to return to the home country after the fellowship
Important Dates of the ICCBS Karachi Fellowships
- Opening Date: 17 April 2025
- Deadline to Apply: 14 August 2025 (midnight CEST)
- Fellowship Start Date: To be arranged with ICCBS upon selection
How to Apply to the TWAS-ICCBS Postdoctoral Fellowship
- Visit the official application portal: https://onlineforms.twas.org/apply/286
- Prepare your documents, including:
- Two-page CV
- Copy of your PhD certificate
- Two signed recommendation letters
- Certificate of health
- Research proposal outline
- Contact Prof. Dr. Raza Shah at ICCBS (raza.shah@iccs.edu or protocol.iccbs@iccs.edu) to request a Preliminary Acceptance Letter
- Submit your application online before 14 August 2025
- Make sure to include your Acceptance Letter in your application
- Ensure all reference letters are signed and on official letterhead
Required Documents for the Fully Funded Postdoctoral Research Program
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- PhD degree certificate
- Two signed letters of recommendation
- Preliminary acceptance letter from ICCBS
- Certificate of good health
- Research proposal
- Proof of English language proficiency
- Proof of employment at a research institution in your home country
Country-Specific Criteria
This fellowship is open only to nationals of developing countries, excluding Pakistan. Applicants must reside and work in a developing country and plan to return home after completing the fellowship.
