```html

The ICGEB-DIC-MOST International Fellowship Programme (IFP) offers a unique opportunity for scientists from ICGEB Member States to engage in postgraduate research in China. This competitive fellowship aims to enhance the skills and expertise of researchers through short-term placements in prestigious Chinese laboratories.

Programme Overview

The ICGEB-DIC-MOST International Fellowship Programme (IFP) is a collaborative initiative between the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) and the Department of International Cooperation of the Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology (DIC-MOST). The programme is designed to support the mobility of researchers, particularly from developing countries and emerging economies, to gain hands-on experience in advanced research environments in China. This initiative aligns with the Belt and Road initiatives, fostering international cooperation in science and technology.

Application Process

To apply for the fellowship, candidates must first contact a Principal Investigator (PI) at one of the Partnering Institutes in China to discuss and define a research project proposal. The application must detail the potential impact on the fellow's career, the benefits to their home laboratory, and the suitability of the receiving laboratory. All communications with the PIs should be copied to the ICGEB and the China Liaison Office. A work consent letter from the Partnering Institute is also required as part of the application.

• Application Deadline: 31 March 2026, 23:59 CET
• Application Submission: Online via the ICGEB portal

Eligibility Criteria

The fellowship is open to nationals of ICGEB Member States, with a particular emphasis on applicants from Asia, Africa, and countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiatives. Candidates must hold a PhD, be under 45 years of age, and possess good communication skills in either Chinese or English. Additionally, applicants should have completed at least two years of postdoctoral research and demonstrate a strong collaborative potential with the Chinese laboratory.

Fellowship Terms and Benefits

The ICGEB-DIC-MOST fellowship is awarded for periods of 3, 6, or 12 months, with a fixed monthly stipend of 20,000 RMB Yuan (approximately 2,800 USD/month) before tax. This stipend is intended to cover international travel, housing, living expenses, and required insurance. The Partnering Institute will provide necessary laboratory space, consumables, and assistance with visa and administrative processes. However, the fellowship does not provide financial support for family members accompanying the fellows.

Selection Procedure

Applications will be evaluated by the ICGEB Fellowships Selection Committee based on scientific merit. Shortlisted candidates will be further assessed by the CNCBD Selection Committee and the China Science and Technology Exchange Center (CSTEC). Candidates will be notified of the selection results via email approximately two months after the application deadline.

For more information, interested applicants can reach out to the Fellowships Unit at fellowships@icgeb.org.

```