Are you ready to take your academic journey to the next level? The University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) has officially announced six fully funded PhD scholarships in Molecular Biosciences and a Master’s scholarship in Ethics of Governance and Public Service (MA EGPS) for the 2025/2026 academic year. UDSM Scholarships Fully Funded PhD and Master’s 2025, These scholarships are supported by international partners and are designed to equip future researchers and leaders with world-class training, resources, and mentorship.
PhD Scholarships in Molecular Biosciences
Starting Date: October 2025
Duration: 48 Months
Degree Provider: University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM)
Collaborating Institutions: Lund University, Swedish University of Agriculture, Gothenburg University (Sweden)
Funding: Sida
Program Overview
The PhD in Interdisciplinary Molecular Biosciences (IMB) offers a unique blend of academic and practical training. Candidates will explore diverse fields, including:
- Systematics
- Natural Product Chemistry
- Ecology
- Biotechnology
- Biomedical Sciences
- Bioinformatics
Learning will follow a blended model—lectures and supervision at UDSM, plus collaboration with Swedish universities. Selected candidates will spend up to six months in Sweden for laboratory training, seminars, and co-supervision. At the end of the program, candidates must:
- Submit a PhD thesis
- Publish at least three articles in peer-reviewed international journals
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be Tanzanian nationals (priority given to UDSM staff, including DUCE and MUCE)
- Hold a Master’s degree in relevant Molecular Biosciences fields
- Be below 45 years of age
- Have a solid background in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Mycology, or Medical Biology (added advantage)
- Female researchers are strongly encouraged to apply
Research Focus
The program is structured around three sub-themes:
- Health
- Bioprospecting
- Mycology
Benefits of the PhD Scholarship
| Benefit | Tanzania (UDSM) | Sweden (Partner Universities) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | Covered at UDSM rates | Covered at Sida rates |
| Stipend | Monthly stipend + research funds | Subsistence allowance |
| Travel | – | Economy return airfare |
| Supervision | Local & Swedish supervisors | Joint supervision |
| Research | Fieldwork in Tanzania | Lab work in Sweden |
| Extras | Laptop, books & stationery | Shared office space |
Application Requirements
- Updated CV (with publications if any)
- Certified academic credentials (Bachelor & Master)
- Admission letter (UDSM 2025/2026 intake)
- Cover letter (1 page – motivation & career goals)
- Two recommendation letters (with contacts)
- Research concept note (max. 3 pages, excluding references)
Applications must be submitted by 20th September 2025. Shortlisted applicants will be contacted for an online interview by 30th September 2025. Submit applications to: imbproject@gmail.com, Address your application letter to: Prof. Donatha Tibuhwa, PI – IMB Project, University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Master’s Scholarship in Ethics of Governance and Public Service (MA EGPS)
In partnership with the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS), UDSM also invites applications for the Master of Arts in Ethics of Governance and Public Service. This program combines Humanities, Development Studies, Political Science, and Law to build strong foundations in governance and public service ethics.
Duration: 18 months
Funding Body: Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS)
Eligibility Criteria
- Be Tanzanian nationals below 35 years
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree with at least a 3.8 GPA
- Show ability to work in multidisciplinary & multicultural research settings
- Provide evidence of application to the MA EGPS program at UDSM (2025/2026)
- Demonstrate political and societal engagement and commitment to democracy, pluralism, and human rights
Scholarship Benefits
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly stipend funded by KAS
CHECK ALSO:-Fully Funded and Partial Foreign Scholarships 2025
Application Package
- Application cover letter (with full contact details)
- Updated CV (with photo)
- Academic transcripts
- Two recommendation letters (one academic, one societal engagement)
- Statement of intent (max. 500 words) explaining academic aspirations and social motivation
- Reference details of your online application to the MA EGPS program
Deadline: 15th September 2025, Submit to: mlyakurwa@udsm.ac.tz, For inquiries, contact the Head of Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies: mlyakurwa@udsm.ac.tz / mlyakurwa2011@gmail.com, +255 755 368 403
Key Deadlines
| Scholarship | Deadline | Interview/Selection Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| PhD in Molecular Biosciences | 20th September 2025 | 30th September 2025 |
| MA EGPS (Ethics of Governance & Public Service) | 15th September 2025 | Direct communication |
Final Thoughts
These scholarships are a golden opportunity for Tanzanian researchers and students to access fully funded, internationally supported programs. Whether your interest lies in Molecular Biosciences or Ethics of Governance, UDSM and its partners are opening doors to world-class education. If you meet the eligibility criteria, prepare your application early and don’t miss the deadlines.
