A significant opportunity has emerged for South African women in science: the ICGEB-SAWBP PhD Fellowship is now available, supporting doctoral research in biotechnology at the renowned International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) in Cape Town.
Key Takeaways
- Fully funded three-year PhD fellowship for South African women in biotechnology.
- Hosted at ICGEB Cape Town with mentorship, mobility, and stipend support.
- Focused on research areas including Infectious Diseases, Non-Communicable Diseases, Bioinformatics, Plant Systems Biology, and Virology.
Fellowship Overview
The ICGEB-SAWBP Fellowship is designed to bolster the number of women researchers in the biotechnology sector. The scheme, launched in partnership with the South African government, specifically seeks to support doctoral candidates who innovate within key areas of modern bioscience.
The fellowship is open to South African female citizens or permanent residents, with a preference for Black and disabled applicants. Successful candidates will be selected based on their research proposals and academic credentials, especially their readiness and potential impact in the selected research areas.
Research Fields and Program Features
Candidates are encouraged to propose projects in one or more of the following research fields:
- Infectious Diseases
- Non-Communicable Diseases
- Bioinformatics
- Plant Systems Biology
- Virology
The program promises immersion in a vibrant scientific environment.
Benefits Include:
- Tuition coverage at the University of Cape Town
- Annual stipend of ZAR 219,749 for personal and academic support
- Mentorship and access to cutting-edge research facilities
- Opportunities for international research mobility, with potential placements at ICGEB centers in Italy or India
Application Requirements
Eligible candidates must prepare and submit:
- Proof of an MSc degree, or confirmation of an impending MSc thesis submission
- A research proposal in collaboration with an ICGEB Cape Town Group Leader (applicants must contact a group leader prior to applying)
Admission to the program requires formally holding the MSc degree before commencing studies. The deadline for applications is September 19, 2025.
Advancing Women in South African Biotechnology
By combining financial support, mentorship, and international research opportunities, the ICGEB-SAWBP PhD Fellowship aims to dismantle barriers for women in STEM and foster long-term growth in biotechnology. The initiative supports South Africa’s broader objective to advance diversity, scientific innovation, and capacity-building within the country’s scientific community.
