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