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 in Pakistan. This fellowship, administered by The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) and hosted by COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI), aims to support early-career researchers in advancing their expertise in natural sciences, applied sciences, and select social sciences. This guide provides detailed information about the program, 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 for research at COMSATS University Islamabad for a period of up to six months. An additional six-month extension is possible, but it does not include financial support. The application period opens on May 8, 2026, and closes on June 15, 2026. Applicants must have obtained their PhD within the last five years. The language of instruction at CUI is English.
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 at no cost.
- Opening Date: May 8, 2026
- Closing Date: June 15, 2026
- Level: Postdoctoral
- Minimum Degree: 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 opportunities across various disciplines. These align with TWAS’s scientific categories, ensuring a diverse range of study options for fellows.
Natural and Applied Sciences
- Computer Science
- Computer Engineering
- Interdisciplinary Research Centre in Biomedical Materials (IRCBM)
- Mathematics
- Environmental Sciences
- Biotechnology
- Chemistry
- Pharmacy
Social and Economic Sciences
- Management Science
- Development Studies
These fields cover TWAS scientific categories such as Interdisciplinary Sciences, Biological Systems and Organisms, Chemical Sciences, Engineering Sciences, Astronomy, Space and Earth Sciences, Mathematical Sciences, Physics, and Social and Economic Sciences.
Fellowship Benefits
The TWAS-CUI Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme provides a monthly stipend to help cover living expenses. This stipend is intended to assist with costs such as food, accommodation, health insurance, and other local living expenses. It is important to note that the stipend cannot be converted into foreign currency. Furthermore, no stipend is provided during any extended period of research beyond the initial six months.
Acceptance Letter Requirement
A crucial step in the application process is obtaining a Preliminary Acceptance Letter from a supervisor at CUI. This letter confirms that a faculty member is willing to host and guide your research.
Steps to Obtain the Acceptance Letter
- Review Host Supervisors: Examine the list of available host supervisors, which is typically provided as a PDF document on the TWAS website.
- Contact a Supervisor: Reach out to a supervisor 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 cuitwasfellowships@comsats.edu.pk.
Only acceptance letters that are dated within the same year as the application will be considered valid.
Application Process
All applications for the TWAS-CUI Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme must be submitted online through the official TWAS portal. It is essential to have all required documents ready before starting the online application.
Required Documents
- Acceptance Letter: A valid Preliminary Acceptance Letter from a 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 academic transcripts and certificates.
Important Notes for Applicants
- Applications submitted without an acceptance letter will not be processed.
- Reference letters must be uploaded directly through the online portal.
- Ensure all application materials are submitted before the deadline of June 15, 2026.
Contact Information
For inquiries regarding the fellowship, you can reach out to the respective offices.
TWAS Fellowships Office
- Address: ICTP Campus, Strada Costiera 11, 34151 Trieste, Italy
- Telephone: +39 040 2240-3555
- Email: fellowships@twas.org
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: cuitwasfellowships@comsats.edu.pk
