Deadline: December 1, 2025

The fully funded international fellowship 2026 is a tremendous opportunity for candidates who cannot afford to gain research experience in global settings. This opportunity expects the candidates to utilize the newly developed expertise and networks required to undertake MS research and patient care in low- and middle-income countries. These research fellowships are of two types: one is awarded in partnership with ECTRIMS (European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis) and is known as the MSIF-ECTRIMS McDonald Fellowship. Another fellowship is awarded in partnership with ARSEP and is known as the MSIF-ARSEP McDonald Fellowship.

The McDonald Fellowship 2026 is aimed at helping individuals become aware of the types of MS, causes of MS, symptoms of MS, and other related advanced knowledge in a more profound way. The barriers to accessing MS healthcare and improved treatment are wide-ranging, complex, and vary from one country to another. Although some of these challenges can be overcome locally, the interconnected world demands a feasible and globally sustainable solution for this cause. To achieve this purpose, MSIF is focused on working with national MS organizations to provide a solid action plan to address MS healthcare challenges.

The research projects must align with the mission of MSIF, which states that everyone should be brought together to improve the quality of life for all those affected by MS. MSIF is based on five critical aims it wants to achieve over the next few years. First is the positive change in attitudes, policies, and practices. The second is confident and informed decision-making. The third is greater scientific understanding and improved treatments. Fourth is better access to healthcare and treatment.

Benefits

• The fellowship provides funding for two years, with €55,000 awarded each year. This amount is sent directly to the host institution, which then uses it to cover the fellow’s expenses
• An additional contribution of GBP 2,000 per year to the host institution
• Enrich the knowledge of Multiple Sclerosis.
• Helps come up with effective solutions to overcome MS.
• Professional development is ensured.
• International collaboration is encouraged.
• Social networking is enhanced.

Eligibility

• Applicant must be educated to Postgraduate (Ph.D. and Master’s, including MSc or MD) in an area related to multiple sclerosis.
• Citizens of a low or middle-income country (as defined by the World Bank).
• Working or studying in a low or middle-income country (as defined by the World Bank).
• The area of research should be relevant to multiple sclerosis.
• Studying in another country on a project, supported by an MSIF grant.
• Working on a project in a research institute or hospital abroad or in a home country or working on a virtual project.
• You can check eligibility by searching for the field of work or discipline available on the website.

Required Documents

• Supporting statement.
• Details of 3 referees, including the applicant’s supervisor or employer.
• Study plan in case of the virtual association.

Application

• Students have to apply through the official website of MSIF.
• Choose your research project and area of interest.
• Contact a host supervisor at a research institution outside your home country and agree on a project together.
• Complete all sections of the online application form.
• Once you submit the form, your host will be emailed and asked to fill in a supporting statement (they must do this before the deadline).
• Ask three referees to send their reference letters directly to research@msif.orgbefore the deadline.
• Carefully read the Terms and Conditions of the award to understand your responsibilities.
• Write a clear and simple lay summary of your project. (Tips are available at the bottom of the official application page.)

For more information, visit