TWAS-CUI Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme 2026: A Guide for International Researchers

The TWAS-CUI Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme 2026 offers a valuable opportunity for early-career 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 advancements in natural sciences, applied sciences, and select social sciences. This guide provides detailed information on the program, including eligibility, research areas, benefits, and the application process.

Programme Overview

This fellowship is designed for young scientists who have recently completed their PhD and wish to gain further research experience. The program allows for postdoctoral research for a period of up to six months, with a possibility for an additional six-month extension. However, it is important to note that no financial support is provided during this optional extension period. The fellowship is open to nationals of developing countries, with the exception of Pakistan.

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 possible 6-month no-cost extension)
• 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 disciplines. These cover natural and applied sciences, as well as social and economic sciences, aligning with TWAS’s scientific categories.

Natural & Applied Sciences

• Computer Science
• Computer Engineering
• Interdisciplinary Research Centre in Biomedical Materials (IRCBM)
• Mathematics
• Environmental Sciences
• Biotechnology
• Chemistry
• Pharmacy

Social & Economic Sciences

• Management Science
• Development Studies

These fields are categorized under TWAS’s scientific areas, 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 TWAS-CUI Postdoctoral Fellowship 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 be aware that the stipend cannot be converted into foreign currency. Furthermore, as mentioned earlier, no stipend is provided if the fellowship is extended beyond the initial six months.

Acceptance Letter Requirement

A crucial step in the application process is obtaining a Preliminary Acceptance Letter from a potential supervisor at CUI. This letter confirms that a faculty member is willing to host and supervise your research.

Steps to Obtain the Acceptance Letter

1. Review Supervisor Lists: Examine the lists of available host supervisors, often provided as PDFs on the TWAS website.
2. Contact Potential Supervisors: Reach out to a supervisor whose research interests align with yours to discuss your research proposal and potential collaboration.
3. Request Acceptance Letter: If a supervisor agrees to host you, formally request an acceptance letter. This request should typically be directed 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 have all required documents ready before starting the online application.

Required Documents

• Acceptance Letter: The Preliminary Acceptance Letter from your CUI supervisor.
• Reference Letters: Signed reference letters from academic referees, submitted on official letterhead.
• Online Application Form: The completed application form accessed via the TWAS portal.
• Academic Documents: Supporting academic transcripts and certificates.

Important Notes

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

Contact Information

For any inquiries regarding the TWAS-CUI Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme, you can reach out to the relevant offices.

TWAS Fellowships Office

• Address: ICTP Campus, Strada Costiera 11, 34151 Trieste, Italy
• Phone: +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
• Phone: (+9251) 9049 5272
• Fax: (+9251) 924 7010
• Email: [email protected]

Frequently Asked Questions