Global Development Fellowship 2026 in the UK

Dreaming of conducting your PhD research at one of the world’s top universities? The Global Development Fellowship 2026 in the United Kingdom — hosted by Imperial College London — is your chance to turn that dream into reality.

This fully funded international fellowship aims to empower talented PhD students from Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Lower-Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) — including Pakistan — by offering them a short-term research placement at Imperial College London.

The fellowship helps build global research capacity, promotes international collaboration, and opens doors for future academic success.

Quick Details About Global Development Fellowship 2026

About the Global Development Fellowship

The Global Development Fellowship (GDF), launched by the Global Development Hub at Imperial College London, is a prestigious program designed to foster global partnerships in research and innovation.

This fellowship offers PhD students from developing countries the chance to engage in cutting-edge research under the supervision of Imperial’s world-class professors. Fellows gain access to advanced laboratories, academic resources, and global networks — enriching their PhD experience and building their professional profile.

Check: Max Planck Research Internship 2026 in Germany

Fellowship Benefits

The Global Development Fellowship provides comprehensive financial support, enabling scholars to focus entirely on their research without financial stress.

Fellowship Coverage Includes:

• Monthly Stipend: £1,900
• Arrival Allowance: £200 (one-time payment)
• Round-trip airfare to the UK
• Visa and Biometrics fees covered
• Travel support for attending visa centers

Note: Accommodation in London must be arranged by the fellow.

This fellowship ensures that scholars from developing regions have an equal opportunity to experience Imperial’s outstanding research environment.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Global Development Fellowship 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Must be a PhD student enrolled in a university located in an LDC or LMIC (as per the OECD DAC list).
• Must have completed at least 12 months of PhD studies at the time of fellowship placement.
• Must provide:
  • A Letter of Recommendation from their current PhD supervisor confirming suitability and English language skills.
  • A Letter of Support from a prospective Imperial host supervisor, approved by the Head of Department.
    • Must not hold British citizenship or permanent residency in a non-eligible country.
    • Must be able to undertake the fellowship between March and July 2026.

Eligibility for Pakistani Students

Yes! Pakistani students are eligible for the Global Development Fellowship 2026 at Imperial College London.
Since Pakistan is recognized as a Lower-Middle-Income Country (LMIC), PhD students studying in Pakistan fully qualify for this fellowship.

This makes it an exceptional opportunity for Pakistani researchers to access world-class facilities, gain international exposure, and build academic collaborations with leading scientists at Imperial College London.

Final Thoughts

The Global Development Fellowship 2026 at Imperial College London is more than just a research placement — it’s a life-changing opportunity for passionate scholars from developing nations. It empowers researchers to gain advanced academic experience, build international networks, and contribute to solving global challenges through innovative research.

If you are a Pakistani PhD student or belong to any eligible developing country, don’t miss this chance to elevate your research career and join one of the world’s most prestigious institutions.

Apply before November 28, 2025, and take your academic journey to new heights with Imperial College London! Apply Now.