The OWSD PhD Fellowships fund women scientists from Science and Technology Lagging Countries (STLCs) to pursue PhD research in natural sciences, engineering, and IT at a center of excellence in the developing world, aiming to build research capacity and leadership in their home countries. The programme exists to address gender disparities in STEM and to foster sustainable development by empowering women scientists from the Global South.

Eligibility: Female, citizen of an STLC (Nigeria is on the OWSD list), holds a Master's degree (or equivalent) in a STEM field, and must be admitted to or enrolled in a PhD programme at a recognized university in a developing country (outside her home country). - Academic excellence: Strong academic record, research potential, and quality of previous research experience. - Research proposal: Clear, feasible, and scientifically sound PhD research plan aligned with natural sciences, engineering, or IT. - Leadership and impact: Demonstrated commitment to returning to her home country to contribute to research, education, and institutional development. - Endorsement: Strong letters of recommendation from academic referees. - Financial need: Preference for applicants who lack alternative funding sources. - Age limit: Typically under 40 years at the time of application (check current guidelines).

Past OWSD PhD fellows are women from STLCs across Africa, Asia, and Latin America, often with backgrounds in agriculture, biology, chemistry, physics, and engineering. They are typically early-career researchers with a Master's degree, enrolled in PhD programmes at regional centers of excellence (e.g., in South Africa, India, Brazil). Named examples are not listed on the page, but the programme has awarded nearly 600 fellowships, with a retention rate over 80%, and fellows often become leaders in their home institutions.

The ideal applicant is a woman from an STLC with a strong academic record, a clear and impactful PhD research proposal in a STEM field, and a demonstrated commitment to using her research to address local challenges. She is already admitted to a PhD programme at a reputable developing-world university, has strong references, and shows leadership potential to become a role model in her home country.