Deadline: December 9th, 2025

Description

The TWAS-UNESCO Associateship Scheme is a prestigious international initiative designed to help researchers from developing countries strengthen their scientific knowledge and collaboration through short-term research stays. Managed jointly by The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) and UNESCO, the program aims to counteract the brain drain phenomenon by promoting South-South cooperation.

Selected associates are linked to recognized centers of excellence in the developing world for three-year renewable terms, during which they can spend several months conducting collaborative research in a host institution. This exchange supports the development of scientific capacity in under-resourced nations, enabling talented scientists to contribute effectively to their home institutions after each visit.

In parallel, the TWAS Visiting Scientists Programme allows established researchers and professors to spend time at universities and research centers in Least Developed Countries (LDCs), providing lectures, joint research, and mentorship to local faculty and students.

Both programs foster equitable partnerships across the Global South, bridging expertise gaps and enhancing scientific exchange between developing regions.

Eligibility

Applicants must be citizens of developing countries and actively engaged in research at a recognized institution in their home country. They should hold a PhD or equivalent degree in a scientific field and demonstrate a strong academic record.

Host institutions must be located in developing countries included in the TWAS list of eligible nations. The Associateship Scheme supports researchers in the physical, natural, and social sciences, while the Visiting Professors Programme specifically prioritizes Least Developed Countries (LDCs) that seek to enhance local research capabilities.

Benefits

The TWAS-UNESCO Associateship and Visiting Professors Programmes provide a range of benefits, including:

• Travel support (round-trip airfare to the host country)
• Local hospitality and living expenses are covered by the host institution
• Access to laboratories, equipment, and research facilities
• Opportunities for co-publications and collaborative projects
• Strengthened South-South scientific networks and institutional capacity

How to Apply

Interested applicants can submit their applications online via the TWAS portal: TWAS Application Portal. Before applying, candidates should carefully read the applicant’s tutorial and guidelines available on the TWAS website.

Applicants must provide:

• A complete CV and publication list
• A detailed research proposal aligned with the host institution’s expertise
• An invitation or support letter from the host institution

For visiting professors, the host institution should formally invite the professor and specify the intended period of stay, lecture themes, and anticipated outcomes.

Contact Information

For queries, applicants can contact the TWAS Fellowships Office at:
📧 associateship@twas.org or visitingprofessors@twas.org

For more information, visit the official website.