About the opportunity
The McDonald Fellowship enables early career multiple sclerosis researchers from low- and middle-income countries to work in a research institution outside of their own country. During the visit, participants either gain expertise or carry out parts of joint research projects. Following the award, we expect applicants will be able to use the newly developed expertise and networks, continuing to undertake MS research and/or patient care in low- and middle-income countries. Fellowship projects that focus on topics with clear benefits for people with MS in low- and middle-income countries will be prioritised. One Fellowship is awarded in partnership with ECTRIMS and another with France Sclerose En Plaques (FranceSEP).
Funding and benefits
- A two-year grant consisting of 55,000 EUR per year, paid to the host institution and then used to pay the fellow
- One return flight to the host country covered by the Fellowship
Who can apply?
- Educated to postgraduate level (at least MSc, preferably PhD/MD) in an area relevant to multiple sclerosis
- Have had fewer than 5 years postdoctoral research experience (career breaks and additional circumstances taken into account)
- Citizens of a low- or middle-income country (all countries with a low, lower middle or upper middle income as defined by the World Bank)
- Working or studying in a low- or middle-income country at the time of application OR working or studying in another country on a project which started within the six months prior to application
- Previous holders of an MSIF Du Pré grant are eligible to subsequently apply
- Can be used to part-fund a PhD programme where the candidate has already been accepted within the six months prior to application but lacks sufficient total funding
Required documents
- Online application form
- Host supervisor supporting statement submitted via the application form
- Two reference letters from separate referees sent to research@msif.org
- Lay summary of up to 500 words
When to apply
- Applications for the 2026 round are closed; the next round of applications is expected to open in July 2026
- Application deadline, including online form, reference letters, and host supporting statement: 1 December 2026
How to apply
- Identify your host supervisor and project or topic of interest and agree on the project proposal
- Complete all sections of the online application form on the application website
- Ensure your host supervisor submits the supporting statement using the application form before the deadline
- Ask two referees to send their reference letters to research@msif.org before the deadline
Additional information
- The fellowship must start within 12 months of being awarded the funding.
- A short report must be submitted at the end of the first year to secure second-year funding.
- A final report and expenditure summary are required upon completion of the fellowship.
- The proposed research must be relevant to multiple sclerosis, and research involving related conditions (such as NMOSD or MOGAD) must explain its relevance to understanding MS.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Early-career researchers from low- and middle-income countries specializing in multiple sclerosis
- Researchers seeking a two-year international placement to gain expertise or conduct joint research
- Candidates who have completed their postgraduate education and have fewer than five years of postdoctoral experience
What should you think carefully about?
- The fellowship requires identifying a host supervisor and project before applying
- Funding is paid to the host institution, which then manages the fellow's stipend
- The research must clearly demonstrate benefits for people with MS in low- and middle-income countries
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This fellowship is designed to build research capacity in regions where it is needed most. It is an ideal path for researchers who want to gain international experience and bring new skills, networks, and expertise back to their home country to improve patient care.
Our take
This is a vital opportunity for MS researchers in low- and middle-income countries to advance their careers and contribute to global health; it is less suitable for those who cannot secure a host institution or whose research lacks a clear link to MS.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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