The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) and The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) are co-hosting their annual summer course on science diplomacy. This intensive, in-person program in Trieste, Italy, is designed for “participant pairs”—an early-career scientist and a decision-maker—to explore how science and technology can address global challenges and build constructive international partnerships. The course aims to build a skillset for careers at the intersection of science and diplomacy.
Program Benefits
- Full Financial Support: For selected pairs from a priority list of developing countries, the organizers will cover all expenses, including international travel, accommodation in Trieste, visa processing fees, and meals.
- Expert-Led Training: The curriculum is delivered by leading experts, covering key science diplomacy concepts and contemporary international policy issues relating to science, technology, environment, and health.
- Global Networking: Participants join a global network of alumni, fostering long-term connections with peers from scientific and diplomatic backgrounds across more than 50 countries.
- Immersive Experience: The course takes place in person in Trieste, Italy, a city renowned for its concentration of international scientific institutions, providing a unique and focused learning environment.
Eligibility Criteria
The program uses an innovative “participant pair” model. Applications must be submitted jointly by two individuals who have agreed to apply together.
- Participant 1 (The Scientist):
- Must be an Early-Career Scientist (ECS), preferably 40 years of age or younger.
- Must hold a PhD degree.
- Their research should have international policymaking implications.
- Participant 2 (The Decision-Maker):
- There is no age limit and a PhD is not required.
- Must work in the policymaking arena, such as a government official, diplomat, civil servant, or staff at a research funding institution or international organization.
- General Criteria:
- The call is open to all countries, but priority for selection and full funding is given to pairs from a specific list of over 100 countries. Self-funded pairs from other countries may also be selected.
- Candidates should not have participated in any previous AAAS-TWAS science diplomacy course.
Application Process
- Application Deadline: The deadline for applications is January 29, 2026, at midnight CET.
- How to Apply: Applications are a joint submission made online through the TWAS portal. The Early-Career Scientist is responsible for filling out both parts of the application and submitting it on behalf of the pair.
- Required Documents:
- For the Scientist: CV, copy of passport, two signed reference letters, and a signed supporting statement from their current employer.
- For the Decision-Maker: CV, copy of passport, and a signed “Co-Applicant Decisionmaker Information and Consent form”.
Application Link:
For complete details, the list of priority countries, and to access the application portal, please visit the official TWAS opportunities page.
