The McDonald Fellowship supports early-career multiple sclerosis researchers from low- and middle-income countries by providing a two-year grant of 55,000 EUR per year to work at a research institution abroad. The fellowship aims to help participants gain expertise or contribute to joint research projects, with the expectation that they will continue MS research or patient care in their home countries afterward.
Awarded by the Multiple Sclerosis International Federation (MSIF) to provide two-year research opportunities for early-career researchers. Two special McDonald Fellowship are offered in partnership with ECTRIMS (MSIF-ECTRIMS McDonald Fellowship) and France Sclerose En Plaques (MSIF-FRANCESEP McDonald Fellowship). Applications open on 1 July 2025 and deadline of application: 1 December 2025
McDonald Fellowship – Key Details
- University/Institution: Host institution can be any research institution outside the applicant’s home country working in multiple sclerosis (MS) research.
- Place: International – chosen by applicant and approved by MS International Federation (MSIF).
- Programs: Research in multiple sclerosis (clinical, laboratory, or applied).
- Duration: 2 years (usually starts within 6 months of the award).
- More information about ECTRIMS can be found here: ECTRIMS
More information about FranceSEP can be found here: FranceSEP
Study Areas (Available Program Names)
- Multiple Sclerosis Research (all aspects, including clinical, basic, and translational research)
- MSIF-ECTRIMS McDonald Fellowship (in partnership with the European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis)
- MSIF-FranceSEP McDonald Fellowship (in partnership with France Sclérose En Plaques)
These programs are open to postgraduate researchers in relevant medical and scientific fields.
Benefits: McDonald Fellowships 2026
- Funding: €55,000 per year (paid to the host institution for fellow salary and project costs)
- Travel Allowance: Covers relocation and research-related travel
- Research Expenses: Funding for project costs and institutional expenses
- Professional Development: Access to mentorship, training, and international research networks
- Global Collaboration: Opportunity to work with leading MS researchers worldwide
Benefits Not Included
- The host institution channels the funding and directly pays the fellow.
- Family or dependent support (unless specified in the host institution’s policy)
- Health insurance (unless provided by the host institution)
- The fellowship does not cover tuition fees for degree programs, unless it part-funds an already-accepted PhD program.
Eligibility Criteria for McDonald Fellowship
- Hold at least an MSc (preferably PhD/MD) in a field relevant to multiple sclerosis.
- Be a citizen of a low- or middle-income country (as per World Bank classification).
- Research must focus on multiple sclerosis.
- Must be in one of the following:
- Working/studying in a low- or middle-income country.
- Working/studying abroad on a project started within 6 months before application.
- Studying abroad with support from a Du Pré grant.
- Du Pré grant holders can apply for this fellowship, but not vice versa.
- Must return to home country after the study period to contribute to MS research/care.
- You can use the fellowship to part-fund a PhD if a recognized institute has already accepted you within six months before applying and you lack sufficient funding.
- Fellowship must begin within 12 months of award.
- Must sign Terms and Conditions with the host if selected.
Required Documents: McDonald Fellowships 2026
- Completed online application form
- Agreement with a host supervisor and supporting statement
- Three referees must send their reference letters directly to research@msif.org.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Project proposal and lay summary (500 words)
- Copies of academic qualifications and transcripts
- Passport copy
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Scholarship Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
- Choose your project and field.
- Agree on a project proposal with your host (supervisor).
- Complete the online application form.
- Host receives email to submit supporting statement after you submit your application.
- Ask 3 referees to send recommendation letters to research@msif.org before the deadline.
- Read the Terms and Conditions to understand requirements.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start Early: Allow ample time to identify host institutions and prepare your application.
- Build Strong References: Choose referees who know your work and can speak to your potential.
- Write a Compelling Lay Summary: Clearly explain your project and its impact in accessible language.
- Network Strategically: Connect with previous fellowship recipients and MS research professionals for advice and support.
- Showcase Your Story: Use your application to highlight your unique background, passion, and the impact you aim to make.
- Follow Instructions Carefully: Ensure all documents and statements are submitted on time.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students
- Accommodation: $300–$800 (shared or student housing)
- Food and groceries: $150–$400
- Transportation: $30–$100 (public transport passes or occasional travel)
- Utilities and internet: $50–$150
- Mobile phone plan: $10–$30
- Study materials and supplies: $20–$50
- Health insurance: $30–$100 (depends on country and coverage)
- Leisure and personal expenses: $50–$200
- Total estimated range: $600–$1,800 per month (varies by location and lifestyle)
Why Choose the McDonald Fellowship?
- Fully Funded Research Opportunity: Comprehensive funding covers salary, research, and travel.
- International Exposure: Work with leading MS researchers and institutions worldwide.
- Professional Development: Access to mentorship, training, and global research networks.
- Impactful Research: Contribute to advancing MS research and patient care in your home country.
- Flexibility: Can be used to part-fund a PhD program if already accepted.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Who can apply for the McDonald Fellowships?
A: Early-career researchers from low- and middle-income countries with postgraduate qualifications in MS-related fields.
Q: When is the application deadline?
A: 1 December 2025.
Q: Can I apply if I am already studying abroad?
A: Yes, if your project started within the last six months or you are on an MSIF Du Pré Grant project.
Q: How is the funding paid?
A: Funding is paid to the host institution, which manages the stipend and project costs.
Q: What happens after the fellowship?
A: Fellows are expected to return to their home country to contribute to MS research and care.
Q: What documents are required?
A: Application form, host supporting statement, three reference letters, CV, project proposal, academic transcripts, and passport copy.
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