McDonald Fellowships UK : The Multiple Sclerosis International Federation (MSIF) is pleased to announce that applications for the prestigious McDonald Fellowships 2026 will open on 1 July 2025. These fully funded, two-year fellowships are designed to support early-career researchers from low- and middle-income countries who are dedicated to advancing research in multiple sclerosis (MS).
The fellowship provides recipients with the opportunity to undertake a research project or training placement at a host institution outside their home country. This experience aims to enhance their expertise and foster international collaboration within the MS research community.
The deadline for applications is 1 December 2025.
Types of McDonald Fellowships Available
Two distinct McDonald Fellowships are offered in collaboration with international partners:
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MSIF-ECTRIMS McDonald Fellowship – Offered in partnership with the European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis (ECTRIMS).
MSIF-FRANCESEP McDonald Fellowship – Supported by France Sclérose en Plaques (FranceSEP).
Eligible Research Areas
Research Fields Supported by the McDonald Fellowship
Fellowship projects must focus on areas directly related to multiple sclerosis (MS), including but not limited to:
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Neuroimmunology
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Neurology and neurodegeneration
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Mechanisms of remyelination and demyelination
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Neurorehabilitation
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MS epidemiology and public health, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs)
In addition, the fellowship may provide partial funding for ongoing PhD programs, provided the applicant was accepted into the program within six months prior to applying.
Degree Level
McDonald Fellowships 2026, UK (Fully Funded) is available to undertake Fellowship level programs at UK Universities.
McDonald Fellowships UK: Benefits
The McDonald Fellowship is designed to strengthen research capacity in countries with limited resources for multiple sclerosis (MS) research and care. It provides early-career researchers with:
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A fully funded two-year research or training placement at a host institution outside their home country
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An annual stipend of €55,000, paid directly to the host institution to cover the fellow’s salary and associated expenses
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Opportunities to engage in international MS research networks and benefit from expert mentorship
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Support to return to their home country and apply newly gained knowledge in ongoing MS research or clinical practice
Eligible Nationalities
Applicants must be citizens of a low-, lower-middle-, or upper-middle-income country, as classified by the World Bank.
McDonald Fellowships UK: Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
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Be a citizen of a low-, lower-middle-, or upper-middle-income country, as defined by the World Bank
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Hold a postgraduate degree (minimum of an MSc; a PhD or MD is preferred)
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Be engaged in research relevant to multiple sclerosis (MS)
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Meet at least one of the following conditions:
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Currently working or studying in a low- or middle-income country
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Have commenced a research project abroad within six months prior to the application
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Be completing an MSIF project funded through a Du Pré Grant
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Women and Indigenous researchers are strongly encouraged to apply.
