The McDonald Fellowships 2026 offer an extraordinary chance for researchers and postgraduate students from low- and middle-income countries to accelerate their careers through international research collaboration. Initiated by the Multiple Sclerosis International Federation (MSIF), this fully funded fellowship is designed for individuals working in fields related to multiple sclerosis (MS) who wish to pursue research outside their home country or through virtual collaboration. This prestigious initiative empowers researchers to advance knowledge in MS care, treatment, and patient advocacy while building global networks.

This opportunity targets passionate young researchers, early-career scientists, and health professionals who are currently based in or are citizens of low- and middle-income countries, offering them a pathway to contribute to global MS research. By encouraging collaboration between institutions and fostering expertise transfer, the McDonald Fellowships aim to bring long-term improvements to MS research capabilities in under-resourced regions.

This program not only supports candidates to gain international exposure but also helps equip them with the tools to contribute meaningfully to scientific advancement in their communities. Whether you are conducting research virtually or planning to relocate to a host institute, the McDonald Fellowships offer both flexibility and comprehensive support to help you grow professionally while contributing to the global MS community.

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Host Country:

• A neighboring country, the candidate’s home country, or any country where a host research institution agrees to supervise the fellow.

Program Location:

• A research institution abroad or in the fellow’s home country.

• Virtual collaboration is also supported if travel is not possible.

Program Duration:

• Two years (2026–2028)

Program Themes or Focus Areas:

• Research related to Multiple Sclerosis, including:

  • Causes and risk factors of MS

  • MS symptoms and diagnosis

  • Treatment and rehabilitation techniques

  • Social impact and healthcare policy

  • Innovation in patient support and MS care delivery

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Benefits

Selected participants of the McDonald Fellowships 2026 will receive comprehensive support to pursue research and professional growth, including:

• Annual funding of €55,000 for two years (total €110,000), paid directly to the host institution

• An additional GBP 2,000 per year granted to the host institution for administrative and research-related support

• Opportunity to gain international research experience in a leading institution

• Deepened knowledge of multiple sclerosis care and treatment

• Access to international mentorship and professional development

• Strengthened research and publishing capacity

• Enhanced global and regional collaboration networks

• Support in becoming a future MS research leader in your home country

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Eligibility Criteria

Candidates must fulfill the following eligibility requirements to apply for the McDonald Fellowships 2026:

• Must hold a postgraduate degree such as a Ph.D., MD, or MSc in a subject relevant to multiple sclerosis

• Must be a citizen of a low- or middle-income country, as categorized by the World Bank

• Must be currently working or studying in a low- or middle-income country

• Must be involved in research that is relevant to MS

• Can be working on a research project in their home country, at a foreign institute, or virtually

• Must identify a host institution outside their country and develop a collaborative research project

• Must submit the application with support from the host supervisor and three referees

• Must prepare a lay summary of their research project

• Previous recipients of an MSIF grant may also be eligible if they meet the current requirements

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How to Apply

Applicants should carefully follow the steps below to submit a complete and successful application for the McDonald Fellowships 2026:

1. Visit the official MSIF application portal

2. Choose a research topic related to multiple sclerosis

3. Identify a host supervisor at a qualified research institution abroad and agree on a collaborative project

4. Complete the online application form, ensuring that all required information is provided

5. Once submitted, the host supervisor will be emailed to submit a supporting statement

6. Three referees, including your current supervisor or employer, must email reference letters directly to: research@msif.org

7. Prepare a clear and concise lay summary of your research project (guidance provided on the application page)

8. Review the Terms and Conditions to understand your responsibilities as a fellow

9. Submit your application before the deadline: 1 December 2025

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Required Documents

Applicants must ensure they have prepared the following documents for submission:

• Supporting statement from the host institution

• Reference letters from three referees

• Study plan (if proposing a virtual collaboration)

• Lay summary of the research project

• Details about academic background and previous research experience

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Application Deadline:

• 1 December 2025

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Why Apply for the McDonald Fellowships 2026?

The McDonald Fellowships are not just financial grants—they are a transformative experience designed to build the next generation of experts in multiple sclerosis research. Through strong mentorship and collaborative partnerships, fellows gain access to the latest developments in MS diagnosis, treatment, and healthcare policy. These fellowships help close the global gap in MS research by empowering researchers from low- and middle-income countries to become leaders in their field.

Furthermore, the program fosters an inclusive and equitable global research environment where the brightest minds, regardless of geography or economic background, can contribute to a better future for MS patients worldwide. It’s an invitation to become a part of a larger movement toward scientific equity, patient-centered innovation, and improved healthcare outcomes.

Whether you’re interested in the biological foundations of MS or in creating community-based care solutions, this opportunity can be a career-defining milestone. The MSIF’s vision to bring the MS community together and improve lives through knowledge and research makes the McDonald Fellowships 2026 a flagship program for change-makers in global health research.