Brazil Expands International Biotechnology Research Funding and Scientific Exchange in 2026

Brazil is enhancing its position in international biotechnology research through significant funding and exchange programs announced for 2026. The International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) has opened applications for its Scholarship Program and Collaborative Research Program (CRP), providing up to 25,000 euros annually for up to 36 months to support projects of high scientific relevance to Brazil in areas like human health, bioenergy, and agricultural biotechnology. Candidates must be affiliated with universities or research institutes in ICGEB member states, with submissions due by April 30, 2026. The selection process includes national evaluation and international peer review.

In addition, the state of Pernambuco launched the Franco-Brazilian Chairs initiative, fostering scientific collaboration with French research institutions. Coordinated by the Secretariat of Science, Technology and Innovation (Secti) and the Foundation for the Support of Science and Technology of Pernambuco (Facepe), and supported by the French Embassy in Brazil, this program funds exchanges of researchers and professors to promote joint scientific output. With a budget of R$ 114,600, it will support up to three proposals annually in 2026 and 2027, with the proposal deadline on May 15, 2026.

Mauricélia Montenegro, Pernambuco's Secretary of Science, Technology and Innovation, highlighted the initiative's alignment with the state's internationalization strategy, while French Consul-General Serge Gas called it unprecedented for strengthening scientific cooperation. Facepe's scientific director, Flávia Lucena, emphasized the expansion of collaboration opportunities these programs offer local researchers. Together, these initiatives reflect Brazil's growing engagement in global scientific networks and investment in biotechnology research excellence.