The TWAS‑CUI Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme 2026 is a prestigious research opportunity designed to support outstanding young scientists from developing countries who wish to advance their expertise in natural sciences, applied sciences, and selected social sciences. Hosted by COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI) in Pakistan, this fellowship provides a structured, well‑supported environment for researchers to deepen their academic contributions while collaborating with world‑class faculty.
This comprehensive guide explains every detail of the programme, including eligibility, fields of study, benefits, application requirements, deadlines, and contact information. It is optimized for high search visibility and clarity.
Programme Overview
The TWAS‑CUI Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme supports early‑career researchers from developing countries (excluding Pakistan) who aim to conduct postdoctoral research for up to six months at COMSATS University Islamabad. An additional six‑month extension may be granted, though no financial support is provided during the extended period.
Key Programme Facts
- Host Institution: COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI), Pakistan
- Administered by: The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS)
- Duration: Up to 6 months (with possible 6‑month no‑cost extension)
- Opening Date: 8 May 2026
- Closing Date: 15 June 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
CUI offers a wide range of research areas across natural sciences, applied sciences, and social sciences.
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 align with TWAS scientific categories such as:
- Interdisciplinary Sciences
- Structural, Cell & Molecular Biology
- Biological Systems & Organisms
- Chemical Sciences
- Engineering Sciences
- Astronomy, Space & Earth Sciences
- Mathematical Sciences
- Physics
- Social & Economic Sciences
Fellowship Benefits
CUI provides a monthly stipend intended to cover:
- Food
- Accommodation
- Health insurance
- Local living expenses
Important notes:
- The stipend cannot be converted into foreign currency.
- No stipend is provided during the optional extension period.
Acceptance Letter Requirement
Applicants must secure a Preliminary Acceptance Letter from a CUI supervisor.
Steps to Obtain the Acceptance Letter
- Review the list of available host supervisors (PDFs provided on the TWAS website).
- Contact a suitable supervisor for academic discussion.
- Formally request the acceptance letter by writing to: Mr. Kashif Masood, Deputy Registrar (International) Email: cuitwasfellowships@comsats.edu.pk
Only acceptance letters dated the same year as the application are valid.
Application Process
All applications must be submitted online through the TWAS portal.
Required Documents
- Acceptance Letter from CUI
- Signed reference letters on official letterhead
- Completed online application form
- Supporting academic documents
Important Notes
- Applications without an acceptance letter will not be considered.
- Reference letters must be uploaded via the online portal only.
- All materials must be submitted before 15 June 2026.
Contact Information
TWAS Fellowships Office
ICTP Campus, Strada Costiera 11 34151 Trieste, Italy Tel: +39 040 2240-3555 Email: fellowships@twas.org
COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI)
Mr. Kashif Masood Deputy Registrar (International) Park Road, Tarlai Kalan Islamabad 45550, Pakistan Tel: (+9251) 9049 5272 Fax: (+9251) 924 7010 Email: cuitwasfellowships@comsats.edu.pk
Application Documents
- Online application tutorial (PDF)
- Sample preliminary acceptance letter (PDF)
- Foreign student information sheet (DOCX)
- Host supervisors list – Islamabad campus (PDF)
- Host supervisors list – Lahore campus (PDF)
Apply here
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