Advance Your Research Career with an International Biotech Fellowship
The International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) South African Women in Biotechnology Programme (SAWBP) 2026 is a prestigious postdoctoral fellowship designed to support South African women scientists in advancing cutting-edge biotechnology research.
This opportunity is supported in partnership with the National Research Foundation South Africa and the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation South Africa.
Application Deadline
15 April 2026
Quick Overview
- Programme: SAWBP Postdoctoral Fellowship
- Organisation: International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology
- Location: ICGEB Cape Town Component
- Duration: 2 years
- Field: Biotechnology & related disciplines
- Target Group: South African women researchers
About the Fellowship
This programme supports highly qualified women researchers to:
- Conduct innovative, hypothesis-driven research
- Work in a world-class international scientific environment
- Collaborate with global experts in biotechnology
- Access advanced scientific tools and methodologies
Research Areas Covered
Your research proposal must align with one of these areas:
- Infectious Diseases
- Non-Communicable Diseases
- Bioinformatics
- Plant Systems Biology
- Biopesticides
- Virology
You can also:
- View latest Internships
- View latest Learnerships
- View Latest Bursaries
- View latest Government jobs
- View latest Scholarships
- View latest Fellowships
Fellowship Benefits
Financial Support
- Stipend: ZAR 320,000 per year (tax-free)
- Research Funding: ZAR 50,000 per year
- Duration: 2 years
International Exposure
- Opportunity to visit:
- ICGEB Trieste
- ICGEB New Delhi
- Exposure to global research collaborations
Professional Development
- Mentorship from leading scientists
- Peer-to-peer learning
- Advanced research training
- Access to cutting-edge technology
Eligibility Requirements
You must:
- Be a South African woman
- Hold a PhD degree in Biotechnology or related field
- Be a South African citizen or permanent resident
- Have outstanding research ability
- Be willing to conduct innovative, hypothesis-driven research
Preference Given To:
- Black applicants
- Applicants with disabilities
Application Requirements
To apply, you must:
- Apply under NRF Postdoctoral Grants
- Indicate ICGEB as your host institution
- Contact an ICGEB Cape Town Group Leader
- Obtain a letter of endorsement (mandatory)
Your research proposal must be aligned with ICGEB research themes.
Important Application Step
You must:
- Contact a Principal Investigator (Group Leader) at ICGEB Cape Town
- Discuss and align your research project
- Secure written support before applying
Why This Fellowship Is Important
This programme helps:
- Empower women in science
- Strengthen biotechnology research in South Africa
- Build global scientific collaboration
- Develop the next generation of scientific leaders
Recent Posts
- Allan Gray University Fellowship 2026/2027 (Full Funding for University Students) – Apply by 30 April!
- Top Chemistry Internships in South Africa (2026) – Apply Now
- AfriSam Analytical Chemistry Internship 2026 (24-Month WIL Programme) – Apply by 30 March!
- Mondi Engineering Technicians in Training 2026 (P1 & P2 Workplace Training) – S4 Students Apply Now!
- Hello Group Data Warehouse Internship 2026 (No Degree Required) – Start a Tech
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply?
Only South African women with a PhD in biotechnology or related fields.
2. Is this a postdoctoral fellowship?
Yes, it is a 2-year postdoctoral research programme.
3. What is the stipend?
You will receive ZAR 320,000 per year, plus research funding.
4. Is international travel included?
Yes, mobility support is provided to:
- ICGEB Trieste
- ICGEB New Delhi
5. Is a supervisor required?
Yes, you must secure a Group Leader endorsement before applying.
6. What research areas are accepted?
- Infectious diseases
- Bioinformatics
- Virology
- Plant systems biology
- Non-communicable diseases
- Biopesticides
Final Tip
This is a highly competitive international fellowship — start preparing early, secure your supervisor, and refine your research proposal.
