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Call for TWAS-SISSA-Lincei Research Visits Programme 2026 !!!
The UNESCO-TWAS, in collaboration with the Accademia Nazionale dei Lincei and the International School for Advanced Studies (SISSA), is inviting applications for the TWAS-SISSA-Lincei Research Cooperation Visits Programme 2026. This programme offers young scientists from Least Developed Countries (LDCs) the opportunity to conduct collaborative research or participate in training internships at leading research institutions in Italy.
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The programme aims to strengthen the research capacity of promising scientists, particularly those at the early stages of their careers, and encourage international scientific collaboration. Research visits take place at eligible research institutions and Centres of Excellence in the Friuli Venezia Giulia Region, including Trieste and Udine.
The programme focuses on sustainability science and supports research projects relevant to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Participants can explore research opportunities across a wide range of scientific disciplines, including physics, mathematics, neuroscience, biotechnology, oceanography, geophysics, environmental biology, computer science, agricultural sciences, chemistry, and other eligible fields.
The programme is open to scientists who are nationals of Least Developed Countries, hold an MSc or a higher degree, and have a research position in an LDC. Applicants must be no older than 40 years on 31 December 2026 and must propose research relevant to the programme’s eligible scientific fields and sustainability objectives. Women scientists are particularly encouraged to apply.
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Successful applicants will undertake a three-month research visit in Italy to develop their scientific expertise, strengthen international research connections, and contribute to sustainable development in their home countries. The programme also supports scientific exchange and encourages participants to establish lasting collaborations with researchers and institutions.
The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation, through UNESCO-TWAS, will cover travel expenses and subsistence costs during the stay in Italy. Applicants must demonstrate their intention to return to their home country after completing the fellowship.
Benefits
- Travel Expenses: Travel costs to Italy are covered.
- Subsistence Support: Living expenses during the three-month research visit are covered.
- Research Experience: Gain collaborative research and training experience at eligible Italian research institutions.
- International Collaboration: Build research connections with scientists and host laboratories.
- Professional Development: Strengthen scientific skills through sustainability-focused research related to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Eligibilities
- Nationality: Must be a citizen of a Least Developed Country (LDC).
- Education: Must hold an MSc degree or higher.
- Research Position: Must hold a research position in an LDC.
- Age Limit: Must be 40 years old or younger on 31 December 2026.
- Research Proposal: Must focus on sustainability science and relate to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Host Institution: Must obtain an invitation letter from an eligible research laboratory in Italy.
- Language: Application must be submitted in English.
- Return Requirement: Must intend to return to their home country after the research visit.
- Location: Applicants already residing in the host country are not eligible.
- Other Conditions: Part-time visits are not eligible. Successful applicants cannot take other assignments during the visit and may apply to only one TWAS/OWSD programme per calendar year.
Application Process
- Review the eligible host institutions and their research fields.
- Contact a suitable host supervisor and discuss your research proposal, visit dates, and available facilities.
- Obtain an invitation letter confirming the proposed three-month research visit and collaboration.
- Prepare the required documents:
- Completed application form
- Copy of passport
- CV
- Statement of scientific interests and future sustainability research plans in your home country, referring to relevant SDGs
- List of publications
- MSc or higher degree certificate
- Two recent, signed recommendation letters
- Submit the completed application and supporting documents in English through the official application process before the deadline.
Application Deadline: October 31, 2026 (16 Days Remaining)
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