AFFDU (French Association of University Women) - Dr.Annie Leclerc-Giry Biology Grant

Dr Annie Leclerc-Giry Biology Grant

You will receive a grant of one-off payment of up to 1,500 EUR to support a biological research project, ideally one that takes you abroad or to France. The AFFDU’s national grants range from 1,000 to 1,500 euros. The grant is awarded by the AFFDU (Association Française des Femmes Diplômées des Universités), the French branch of Graduate Women International, which provides financial support to women in higher education and research. You will also become part of a network of women in academic professions and will be invited to the association’s annual scholarship holders’ day.

Who can apply

• Women only: This funding is reserved for female researchers.
• Field: You research in biology.
• Study phase: You are about to complete your PhD or are currently in a postdoctoral phase (research work following your PhD). Second-year PhD students will only be considered in exceptional cases and are not given priority.
• Age: You are under 40.
• Nationality: Any nationality can apply.
• University: Open, no matter where you study.
• Project location: Preference will be given to projects that involve a period spent abroad or a move to France.
• Membership: You must become a member of the AFFDU or already belong to a national association affiliated to the GWI in your country.
• First-time only: You have not yet received an AFFDU grant.

How to apply

You must submit a complete application to the AFFDU by email by 31 May each year. This must include your CV, a personal statement, your academic transcripts, letters of recommendation and confirmation from the research institution that is hosting you. A selection panel will assess the projects, and you will receive a response by the end of June.

How realistic are your chances?

This funding scheme is narrowly defined: it is aimed exclusively at female biologists who are about to complete their PhD or are currently in a postdoctoral phase, under 40, and who are prepared to move abroad or to France. As a result, the pool of applicants remains small compared to open scholarships. If you clearly meet these criteria, can present a sound research project with a confirmed host institution, and submit your application by the deadline, your chances are good.