Research institutions in developing countries can apply to host an internationally recognised scientist for a two-to-four-week visit through the TWAS Visiting Expert Programme. TWAS covers the expert’s most direct round-trip economy travel, while the host institution is responsible for local expenses.
Overview
The programme helps universities and research groups in developing countries, especially Least Developed Countries and institutions with limited international contacts, build long-term scientific relationships.
Visiting experts may contribute through research collaboration, lectures, seminars, student supervision, and the development of new research lines. The call covers natural sciences other than mathematics and physics.
Benefits
- International Travel: TWAS provides the visiting expert with the most direct round-trip economy-class travel.
- Research Collaboration: The visit can support joint research and longer-term institutional links.
- Training: Experts may deliver lectures and seminars and work with faculty and students.
- Capacity Building: Host institutions can use the visit to strengthen existing programmes or establish new research activity.
Eligibility
- Applicant: The application is submitted by the prospective host institution or research group.
- Host Location: The host must be located in a developing country in the South, with particular emphasis on Least Developed Countries.
- Expert: The invited scientist must have attained international recognition in the relevant field.
- Qualification: The programme lists a PhD as the minimum degree for the visiting expert.
- Field: Eligible work is in natural sciences other than mathematics and physics.
- Duration: The visit must last between two and four weeks.
How to Apply
- Deadline: Applications close on November 23, 2026.
- Prepare Documents: Upload the visiting expert’s brief CV and publication list, the expert’s research and teaching programme letter, and the host institution head’s supporting statement.
- Programme Limit: Applicants may normally apply for only one programme per calendar year across the TWAS and OWSD portfolio.
- Submit: Complete the official TWAS online application before the deadline.
