FAQ for Applicants
What are the program’s goals and objectives, and how does the fellowship contribute to them?
The program aims to strengthen partner countries’ technical capacities in the areas of biosafety, biosecurity and detection by providing fellows with training and opportunities to advance their technical skills. The fellowship contributes by enhancing fellows’ skills and knowledge, which they can apply upon returning to their home countries, and fostering international collaboration.
How do I apply for the CBFP?
Review the program announcement for full details including eligibility and application requirements, gather all required documents, and submit a complete application using the following link (click here) by the specified deadline. Please note, application progress will NOT be saved; application must be completed in one session.
What documents are required for the application?
You need to submit a completed electronic application, a Curriculum Vitae (CV), a project proposal (using the template provided within the online application portal), a Letter of Support from your home institution, a copy of your current passport, and any additional supporting documents demonstrating your eligibility.
What are the eligibility criteria for the fellowship?
Applicants must hold at least a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Biosafety, Biosecurity, Infectious Disease Diagnostics or related fields, with demonstrated significant professional experience. A master’s or PhD degree is preferred for advanced study topics. Applicants must also demonstrate fluency in English, pass a medical exam (upon selection and acceptance as a fellow), and provide proof of eligibility for the appropriate visa. Please review the eligibility and application requirements for more info.
How does the program define “bioscience” and what areas are eligible for funding?
Bioscience encompasses a wide range of fields related to biological sciences. Eligible areas include monitoring, detection, and reporting of high-threat pathogens, among others. Please review the CBFP Domains and Competencies and Fellowship Focus Areas here.
Is there a specific template or format required for the project proposal?
The project proposal should follow the specified template (located within the online application portal) and must be compliant with the CBFP Domains and Competencies, Fellowship Focus Areas, and CBFP goals (details can be found here).
Does my current employer need to approve my fellowship application?
Yes. A letter of support from your institution is required, which should confirm your institution is committed to your participation as well as reintegration to your institution post fellowship.
Can I save my application and restart at a later time?
No. Your application progress will not be saved. Please ensure that you have all the materials and information needed before starting to complete the application form.
Can I apply for the fellowship if I am currently enrolled in a degree program?
Yes, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria and can commit to the fellowship requirements you may apply. Please review the eligibility and application requirements for more info.
How will I be matched with a host institution and mentor?
The matching process involves assessing your project proposal and expertise, reviewing profiles of potential host institutions and mentors, and creating preliminary matches. Feedback from both fellows and host institutions will be considered before finalizing matches. The CBFP team has an extensive network of scientists, experts, laboratories and research facilities to align selected fellows’ research interests with a suitable host research institution.
Can I ship samples from my home country to my host institution?
No. The fellowship does not support sample collection or shipping. Selected fellows may work with banked samples at their matched host institution.
What is the duration of the fellowship program?
The fellowship typically requires a 6-month commitment.
What visa type is required, and does the fellowship sponsor it?
Visa type is dependent on the host country that you are matched with. The CBFP will sponsor your visa, as well as assist and pay for all visa-related fees.
Is pre-departure training or cultural orientation provided?
Yes. Selected fellows will undergo pre-departure orientation training and will also receive an orientation packet that includes cultural orientation for their host country.
Is language training provided?
No. All fellows are expected to be fluent (speaking, writing and reading) in English at the time of application in order to communicate with scientific peers at host institutions.
Is housing provided or assisted with?
Yes. The CBFP will arrange and cover the cost of housing for the duration of the fellowship.
What kind of support and resources will be available to me during the fellowship?
Fellow will receive financial support for project-related supplies, living stipends, housing, and travel expenses. Additionally, the CBFP will provide emergency medical insurance for the duration of the fellowship, mentorship and training opportunities to enhance professional skills, and networking opportunities to foster international collaboration. Fellows may receive host country cultural integration support.
What opportunities will I have for professional development and networking during the fellowship?
Fellows will have access to professional development opportunities, such as regular brown bag sessions, online courses, international conferences, mentorship programs, and collaborations with ongoing projects.
Can I travel back to my home country while participating in the fellowship for a short visit?
No. Fellows are expected to remain in the host country for the full duration of the fellowship, except in cases of emergency.
Are dependents or family members allowed to accompany me during the fellowship?
No. The fellowship is an individual opportunity, and no one is allowed to accompany you during the program. At their own expense, family members are permitted to visit fellows during their overseas fellowship for one week at a time and for no more than two weeks in total.
Are dependents (spouse/children) supported, either logistically or financially?
No. The fellowship is an individual opportunity only; therefore, no logistical or financial support is provided to dependents.
Can I travel outside of my host country for tourism purposes?
No. Fellows are expected to remain in their host countries for the duration of the fellowship, except for professional development opportunities such as attending conferences or training, which will be organized by the CBFP.
Can I get a part-time job in my host country during my fellowship?
No. Fellows may not apply for or accept employment in their host country during their participation in the fellowship. Doing so may invalidate their visa.
What is the timeline for notifying selected fellows?
The preliminary fellow selection notification is tentatively expected by January 2026.
Who can I contact for more information?
For email inquiries, contact [email protected]. Additional resources and guidelines can be found at biosecurityfellowship.com.