Are you a researcher in biology, biotechnology, or related fields looking for international collaboration opportunities? The Belt & Road Fellowship Initiative (BRFI) of the Tianjin Synthetic Biology Program offers a fully funded opportunity for outstanding scholars to conduct cutting-edge research in China.
BRFI Tianjin Synthetic Biology Fellowship
The BRFI program, hosted by the Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology under the Chinese Academy of Sciences, is designed to promote global scientific collaboration and innovation. It provides financial support to researchers from Belt and Road countries to engage in advanced research in synthetic biology and related disciplines.
BRFI Tianjin Synthetic Biology Fellowship 2026 Summary
| Category | Details |
| Host Country | China |
| Host Institution | Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology (TIB) |
| Program Type | Research Fellowship (Postdoctoral & Visiting) |
| Funded By | Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) |
| Eligible Applicants | Scholars from Belt & Road Countries |
| Fellowship Categories | Long-Term & Short-Term |
| Funding Value | Up to 250,000 RMB/year |
| Application Deadline | Open Until Filled |
| Study Mode | Research-Based, On-Site |
About the BRFI Fellowship Program
The Belt & Road Fellowship Initiative (BRFI) is a strategic program aimed at strengthening international research collaboration between China and participating Belt & Road countries. The initiative focuses on advancing innovation in synthetic biology and related scientific fields.
Through this fellowship, selected scholars will work closely with researchers at TIB, gaining access to world-class laboratories, advanced technologies, and a collaborative academic environment. The program also encourages interdisciplinary research and knowledge exchange.
Fellowship Categories and Benefits
The BRFI program offers two main categories of funding:
Category A (Long-Term Fellowship)
- Duration: 1–2 years
- Funding: 250,000 RMB per year
- Suitable for: Visiting scholars and postdoctoral researchers
Category B (Short-Term Fellowship)
- Duration: Less than 6 months
- Funding: Up to 100,000 RMB
- Suitable for: Short-term visiting scholars
In addition to financial support, fellows benefit from access to research facilities and collaboration opportunities with leading scientists.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
To be eligible for the BRFI Tianjin Synthetic Biology Fellowship, applicants must:
- Be from a Belt & Road country
- Be actively engaged in research and development (R&D)
- Hold a PhD degree in relevant fields such as:
- Biology
- Biotechnology
- Chemistry
- Chemical Engineering
- Synthetic Biology or related disciplines
- Be capable of conducting independent research
- Have publications in reputable international journals
- Have a confirmed collaborator at TIB
Age Requirements:
- Visiting scholars: Generally, under 50 years old
- Postdoctoral scholars: Generally, under 35 years
Preference is given to applicants from ANSO members, COMSATS member countries, and international centers of excellence.
Application Timeline
- Application Deadline: Open until all positions are filled
Since applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, early submission is highly recommended.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit the following:
- Completed BRFI application form
- Research proposal (in both English and Chinese)
- Cooperation agreement with a TIB collaborator
- PhD degree certificate
- Recommendation letters:
- Postdoctoral applicants: 2 letters (including one from PhD supervisor)
- Visiting scholars: 3 letters from institutional authorities
- Copies of selected publications (maximum of 5)
- Passport information page
- Recent passport-sized photograph
- Any additional supporting documents
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply for the BRFI Fellowship:
- Prepare Your Application Documents
Gather all required materials, including your research proposal and recommendation letters. - Secure a TIB Collaborator
You must identify and collaborate with a researcher at TIB before applying. - Submit Through Collaborator
Authorize your TIB collaborator to submit your application to the program office. - Await Review and Selection
Applications are evaluated based on academic merit, research potential, and alignment with TIB’s research priorities.
Important Notes
- Applicants are responsible for the authenticity of all documents
- All documents must be submitted in both electronic and printed formats
- The research proposal must be provided in both English and Chinese
- Eligible countries must be part of the Belt & Road Initiative agreements
- Fellows may also apply for additional programs such as PIFI of CAS
Why Choose the BRFI Fellowship?
- Generous Funding: Up to 250,000 RMB annually
- Global Collaboration: Work with leading scientists in China
- Advanced Research Facilities: Access to cutting-edge labs and technologies
- Career Growth: Strengthen your academic and research profile
- Flexible Duration: Choose between short-term and long-term research
If you meet the eligibility criteria and are passionate about research in synthetic biology or related disciplines, this program is worth applying for. Prepare your documents early and secure a collaborator to maximize your chances of success.
Direct link: https://comsats.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/TIB_Belt__Road_Fellowship.pdf
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