Arturo Falaschi Short-Term Postdoctoral Fellowships – September 2025

The Arturo Falaschi Short-Term Postdoctoral Fellowships offered by the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) present an exceptional opportunity for early-career researchers in life sciences. Designed for candidates from ICGEB Member States, the fellowship supports advanced research at one of the Centre’s laboratories located in Trieste (Italy), New Delhi (India), or Cape Town (South Africa). With generous funding and access to world-class infrastructure, this program is ideal for scientists aiming to deepen their expertise and foster international collaboration.

The Arturo Falaschi Short-Term Postdoctoral Fellowship empowers life science researchers from ICGEB Member States with fully funded access to world-class labs in Italy, India, and South Africa. This prestigious opportunity enhances global collaboration, research training, and scientific development through short-term, high-impact projects.

Overview of the Fellowship

The Arturo Falaschi Short-Term Fellowship supports postdoctoral researchers to undertake collaborative research visits lasting from one to six months. Fellows work under the mentorship of ICGEB Group Leaders, contributing to ongoing research while acquiring new techniques and perspectives. This initiative is part of ICGEB’s broader mission to promote scientific excellence and capacity building in its Member States.

Key Objectives

• • Facilitate the transfer of scientific knowledge and technical skills.

  • Strengthen research links between ICGEB laboratories and institutions in Member States.

  • Support short-term, high-impact research aligned with global and regional health and development challenges.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Arturo Falaschi Short-Term Postdoctoral Fellowship, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• • Nationality: Must be a citizen of an ICGEB Member State.

  • Educational Qualification: A PhD in life sciences or at least three years of post-PhD research experience.

  • Mobility Requirement: Applicants cannot apply to a laboratory located in their country of origin unless they have been continuously working abroad for at least three years prior to the application.

  • Age Preference: While no formal age limit is imposed, preference is given to candidates below the age of 35.

  • Language Proficiency: Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English. If they did not complete their prior education in English, they must provide proof through recognized language tests such as TOEFL or IELTS. 

Fellowship Benefits and Financial Support

The Arturo Falaschi Short-Term Fellowship is fully funded, covering all key expenses related to the fellowship.

Monthly Stipend

The fellowship provides a monthly stipend, which varies based on the host location:

• • Trieste, Italy: Approximately €2,300

  • New Delhi, India: Approximately USD 1,590 to 1,749

  • Cape Town, South Africa: Approximately ZAR 25,000

Additional Benefits

• • Round-trip airfare from the home country to the host laboratory and return travel upon completion.

  • Health insurance coverage for the entire duration of the fellowship.

  • Visa and permit costs reimbursed upon submission of official receipts.

  • Accommodation assistance:

    • New Delhi: On-campus guesthouse available at subsidized rates.

    • Cape Town: Housing support is arranged prior to arrival.

    • Trieste: A list of local housing options is provided, though accommodation must be arranged independently.

Duration and Application Timeline

• • Duration of Fellowship: 1 to 6 months of full-time laboratory research.

  • Application Deadline: September 2025 (Exact date to be updated. We recommend checking the ICGEB portal regularly.)

  • Notification Timeline: Candidates are generally informed of the selection outcome within 4 to 6 weeks of the deadline.

  • Next Cycle: Expected in March 2026 (We will update soon).

Application Procedure: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Identify and Contact a Host Lab

Prospective applicants should explore the ICGEB research groups and contact a relevant Group Leader whose expertise aligns with their proposed project. A written endorsement from the host lab is mandatory.

Step 2: Prepare Application Documents

Applicants must upload the following documents in PDF format:

• • Detailed Curriculum Vitae including educational background, research experience, and publications.

  • Statement from the host Principal Investigator (PI) expressing willingness to host and support the project.

  • Scanned copy of a valid passport or national ID.

  • Proof of English language proficiency, if applicable.

Note: Only one application per candidate is accepted per cycle. Multiple submissions will lead to disqualification.

Step 3: Submit Online Application

Submit your application through the official ICGEB Online Application Portal. Clearly name each uploaded file, use the correct format, and meet all specified requirements.

Selection Process and Evaluation Criteria

The ICGEB Fellowships Selection Committee, which includes international experts and senior ICGEB scientists, reviews all applications.

Evaluation Parameters

• • Scientific merit and originality of the research proposal.

  • Applicant’s academic and research background.

  • Compatibility with the host laboratory’s ongoing research.

  • Potential for future collaboration and impact on the applicant’s home institution.

Shortlisted candidates receive individual notifications, while others may not be contacted directly.

Application Tips for Success

Align Your Proposal with Host Lab Objectives

Thoroughly study the research focus and recent publications of your proposed host laboratory. Ensure your proposed project complements their ongoing work and demonstrates potential for mutual benefit.

Develop a Clear, Impact-Driven Research Plan

Your proposal should be concise, technically sound, and aligned with regional or global priorities in health, biotechnology, or environment. Avoid vague objectives and highlight measurable outcomes.

Submit a Well-Structured CV and Statement

Ensure your CV reflects relevant research experience, awards, international exposure, and publications. A strong statement of support from the host PI significantly enhances your application’s credibility.

Prepare for Language and Technical Review

Proofread all documents thoroughly. If required, provide English proficiency certification early in the process to avoid last-minute delays.

Research Themes by Location

ICGEB’s three component laboratories specialize in distinct but complementary areas of life sciences:

• • Trieste, Italy: Immunology, neurobiology, genetic disorders, RNA regulation, molecular pathogenesis.

  • New Delhi, India: Plant biotechnology, metabolic engineering, vaccine development, microbial genomics.

  • Cape Town, South Africa: Virology, HIV research, genomics, drug discovery, and parasitic disease studies.

Applicants should choose their host based on thematic alignment with their proposed project and long-term research goals.

Quick Reference Summary

Conclusion: Elevate Your Research Career Globally

The Arturo Falaschi Short-Term Postdoctoral Fellowship offers more than just financial support—it provides a transformative academic and professional experience. With access to cutting-edge research facilities and global scientific mentorship, fellows emerge equipped to lead high-impact projects in their home countries.

ICGEB encourages early-career researchers from Member States to apply, enhance their expertise, build lasting international collaborations, and contribute meaningfully to the global scientific community.

Official Reference: ICGEB Fellowship Details

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)