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 at COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI) in Pakistan. This fellowship aims to support early-career researchers in advancing their expertise in various scientific fields. 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 participants to conduct research for up to six months at COMSATS University Islamabad. An additional six-month extension is possible, but it does not come with financial support. The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) administers this program, which is hosted by CUI.

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 funding.
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

COMSATS University Islamabad offers a broad spectrum of research opportunities. These cover natural sciences, applied sciences, and select social sciences.

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 research areas align with TWAS’s scientific categories, including Interdisciplinary Sciences, Structural, Cell & Molecular Biology, Biological Systems & Organisms, Chemical Sciences, Engineering Sciences, Astronomy, Space & Earth Sciences, Mathematical Sciences, Physics, and Social & Economic Sciences.

Fellowship Benefits

The fellowship provides a monthly stipend to help cover living expenses. This stipend is intended for food, accommodation, health insurance, and local living costs. It is important to note that the stipend cannot be converted into foreign currency. No financial support is provided during the optional extension period.

Acceptance Letter Requirement

A crucial part of the application is securing a Preliminary Acceptance Letter from a CUI supervisor. This letter confirms that a faculty member at CUI has agreed to supervise your research.

Steps to Obtain the Acceptance Letter

Review the list of available host supervisors, which is often provided as a PDF on the TWAS website.
Contact a supervisor whose research interests align with yours to discuss your proposed research project.
Formally request the acceptance letter. This is typically done by writing to Mr. Kashif Masood, Deputy Registrar (International) at CUI, via email at [email protected].

Only acceptance letters dated within the same year as the application are considered valid.

Application Process

All applications for the TWAS-CUI Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme must be submitted online through the TWAS portal. It is essential to complete all sections of the application accurately and upload all required documents before the deadline.

Required Documents

A valid Acceptance Letter from a CUI supervisor.
Signed reference letters submitted on official letterhead.
A completed online application form.
Supporting academic documents, such as transcripts and degree certificates.

Important Notes

Applications submitted without an acceptance letter will not be considered. Reference letters must be uploaded directly through the online portal. Ensure all materials are submitted before the closing date of June 15, 2026.

Contact Information

For inquiries regarding the fellowship, you can reach out to the following contacts:

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 young scientists from developing countries, excluding Pakistan, who have obtained their PhD within the last five years.

What is the duration of the fellowship?

The fellowship lasts for up to six months, with a possibility of a six-month extension, though the extension does not include financial support.

What are the main benefits of the fellowship?

Fellows receive a monthly stipend to cover living expenses such as food, accommodation, and health insurance.

How do I apply for the TWAS-CUI Postdoctoral Fellowship?

You must apply online through the TWAS portal and submit required documents, including a preliminary acceptance letter from a CUI supervisor, before the deadline of June 15, 2026.