The ICGEB SMART Fellowship program supports researcher mobility between ICGEB Member States. It aims to enhance skills, provide hands-on training in new technologies, and foster collaboration in science and technology. The program requires clear evidence of strong collaboration between the two participating laboratories.

Key Dates and Application Process

The closing date for applications is 30 SEPTEMBER 2025. Applicants must complete the application online, ensuring all required documents are uploaded in PDF format. It is crucial to submit applications well in advance to allow timely completion of the Home and Receiving laboratory sections.

The application requires a full CV, the CV of the Head of the Receiving Laboratory (including a list of publications), and a valid identification document (passport or identity card with at least 12 months validity). Only one application per call is accepted per candidate.

After providing details of the Home and Receiving laboratories in the online application, automatic notifications will be sent to the Heads of both labs. They must confirm and complete the data by the call's closing date for the application to be considered.

Eligibility Criteria

This fellowship is open to nationals of ICGEB Member States. It is designed for scientists in the early stages of their careers who wish to spend 3 to 9 months at a research institution in another ICGEB Member State. The program aims to promote collaboration among researchers in ICGEB Member countries.

• Applicants should be registered for a PhD or have obtained their PhD degree within the last 5 years.

• Young scientists holding an MSc or equivalent can also apply.

Awards are not intended to prolong visits already begun under other auspices, support participation in courses, workshops, or symposia, or serve as bridging fellowships between long-term stays funded by ICGEB or other organizations.

Funding and Benefits

The fellowship covers international economy return travel, health insurance, and a monthly stipend for the fellow. The stipend ranges from US$ 800 to US$ 1,500 per month, depending on local conditions and the applicant's seniority. A US$ 500 monthly bench fee can also be paid directly to the receiving laboratory based on the ICGEB Fellowships Committee's recommendation.

The fellowship stipend will be paid by bank transfer directly to the fellow’s bank account. The receiving laboratory is responsible for managing the bench fee funds and certifying expenditures to ICGEB. The receiving laboratory is expected to ensure that adequate provisions are in place for the specific research project and to make the bench fee allocation available to the ICGEB SMART Fellow immediately, free from any administrative overhead costs.

ICGEB does not provide financial or administrative support for family members of participants. Upon completion of the fellowship, successful candidates must prepare a final scientific report with the host supervisor, highlighting achievements. The host institute must also submit a signed financial statement reporting the expenditure covered by the bench fee allowance.

Research Focus Areas

Applications are welcome in any area of the Life Sciences. Applicants should focus on the potential impact of the collaboration on their career development and the benefits it will bring to their home laboratory. The suitability of the receiving laboratory is also a key consideration.

As a major aspect of this program is the promotion of scientific collaboration, applicants are strongly encouraged to ensure that the Supervisors in the two laboratories liaise closely in the preparation of the research project. The ICGEB Fellowships Selection Committee will evaluate complete applications based on the scientific excellence of the project, the candidate's CV, and the potential benefit for both the home and host countries.

ICGEB will positively value any additional support provided by the receiving institute to the fellow’s living expenses (i.e. a direct contribution for living expenses, guest house accommodation, etc.).