Note: This fellowship has expired. Applications for the McDonald Fellowships 2026 UK closed on December 1, 2025. The information below is for reference purposes only.
The McDonald Fellowships 2026 UK, funded by the Multiple Sclerosis International Federation (MSIF), provided a fully funded opportunity for early-career researchers from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) to advance studies and training in multiple sclerosis (MS) research at leading institutions worldwide, primarily in the UK.
The program offered scholars an unparalleled chance to enhance their expertise, engage in high-impact research, and develop long-term international collaborations in MS-related fields.
Why the McDonald Fellowships Are Unique
The fellowship not only offered financial support but also a structured career development path. Fellows received:
Mentorship from global MS experts
Access to state-of-the-art research laboratories
Guidance for career advancement and international collaboration
Opportunities to contribute to MS research in their home countries
MSIF ensured that fellows’ research experience translated into valuable contributions to local MS initiatives, creating a sustainable global impact.
Types of McDonald Fellowships
The 2026 program offered two fellowship types with strong international exposure:
MSIF-ECTRIMS McDonald Fellowship
In partnership with the European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis.
MSIF-FRANCESEP McDonald Fellowship
Sponsored by FranceSEP (France Sclérose en Plaques).
Both programs focused on high-impact MS research areas, providing extensive global training opportunities.
Eligible Research Areas
Applicants were encouraged to submit projects in the following MS-focused domains:
Neuroimmunology and MS pathophysiology
Neurodegeneration and remyelination
Epidemiology of MS in developing countries
Neurorehabilitation science
MS public health and access in LMICs
Projects addressing local MS needs while leveraging global knowledge were prioritized.
Benefits of the McDonald Fellowships
The fellowship provided a comprehensive package to ensure academic growth and sustainable impact:
Fully funded 2-year fellowship
Annual stipend of €55,000 covering living and research costs
Opportunities to participate in international MS collaborations
Structured support for reintegration into home institutions after fellowship completion
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants had to meet the following requirements:
Be a citizen of a low- or middle-income country (LMIC)
Hold a postgraduate degree (MSc minimum; preferably PhD or MD)
Be actively engaged in MS-related research
Currently work/study in an LMIC, or recently started a project abroad, or completing an MSIF-funded Du Pré Grant
Priority was given to: women, indigenous applicants, candidates from Small Island Developing States (SIDS), and Least Developed Countries (LDCs).
Application Process
Applying involved collaboration with a host supervisor at a UK or international institution:
Confirm a host supervisor
Complete the online application on the MSIF portal (opened July 1, 2025)
Submit a 500-word lay summary in plain English
Provide a host statement of support
Submit three reference letters to [email protected]
Complete all steps by December 1, 2025
Post-Fellowship Requirements
Awardees were expected to:
Submit a progress report after year one
Submit a final report and expense summary
Share publications, abstracts, and posters
Acknowledge the MSIF McDonald Fellowship in all related publications
These measures ensured transparency, accountability, and lasting research impact.
Conclusion
The McDonald Fellowships 2026 UK served as a premier launchpad for early-career researchers committed to advancing MS research globally. With structured mentorship, international exposure, and full funding, it offered a unique pathway for career growth and meaningful contributions to MS research in LMICs.
FAQs
Q1: Who was eligible for the McDonald Fellowships 2026?
A: Researchers from LMICs with a postgraduate degree and involvement in MS-related research.
Q2: What was the fellowship duration and funding?
A: 2 years, fully funded with an annual stipend of €55,000.
Q3: Could women and indigenous researchers apply?
A: Yes, they were strongly encouraged, with priority for SIDS and LDC applicants.
Q4: What were the application deadlines?
A: Applications opened on July 1, 2025, and closed on December 1, 2025.
Q5: What research areas were prioritized?
A: Neuroimmunology, neurodegeneration, MS epidemiology in developing countries, neurorehabilitation, and public health.