The TWAS Visiting Expert Programme supports developing-country institutions through visits by internationally recognized scientists. Applications close on 23 November 2026.
Background & Programme Description
The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) is inviting applications for its Visiting Expert Programme, which helps research institutions in developing countries strengthen scientific capacity through collaboration with internationally recognized scientists.
The programme particularly supports institutions in Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and those with limited international research connections. It allows eligible institutions to invite experts to collaborate on research, provide training and establish long-term scientific partnerships.
The programme covers natural sciences excluding mathematics and physics, which are handled through a separate programme at the Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP).
Opportunity Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Organization | The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) |
| Programme | Visiting Expert Programme |
| Application deadline | 23 November 2026 |
| Host institutions | Institutions in developing countries |
| Eligible expert | Internationally recognized scientist |
| Minimum qualification | PhD |
| Duration | 2–4 weeks |
| Eligible fields | Natural sciences, excluding mathematics and physics |
| Age limit | None |
| Application method | Online application by the host institution |
| Contact email | exchanges@twas.org |
Programme Objectives and Activities
The programme aims to strengthen research and educational capacity by connecting developing-country institutions with leading scientists from around the world.
Visiting experts may work with faculty members and students to strengthen existing research activities or help establish new research areas.
Activities may include conducting collaborative research, delivering lectures and seminars, supervising students, providing technical training and exploring future research partnerships.
Successful visits are expected to contribute to the long-term development of the host institution’s scientific and educational programmes.
Qualifications (Education and Certification, Experience)
Requirements for Visiting Experts
The programme is intended for scientists who have achieved international recognition in their fields.
Applicants proposed as visiting experts must hold a PhD and work in an eligible natural science discipline other than mathematics or physics.
The programme has no age limit. Nominations of women scientists are particularly encouraged as part of TWAS’s commitment to equal opportunities.
Requirements for Host Institutions
Institutions in developing countries can apply to host an internationally recognized scientist. Priority is given to institutions in Least Developed Countries and those with limited international scientific contacts.
The application must explain how the proposed visit will support research, teaching, training or institutional capacity development.
Additional Information
Funding and Benefits
TWAS provides the visiting expert with the most direct available round-trip economy-class travel.
The host institution is responsible for covering local expenses associated with the visit. Applicants should therefore confirm that their institution can meet these expenses before submitting a proposal.
Duration of the Visit
Visits should last at least two weeks. The programme overview lists a typical duration of two to four weeks.
Institutions may submit applications to renew successful visits in subsequent years.
Application Deadline
The deadline is 23 November 2026.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online by the institution wishing to host the visiting expert. Institutions should use the official application portal and upload the required documents:
- A brief CV of the visiting expert, not exceeding 10 pages, together with a publication list.
- A letter from the visiting expert describing the proposed research and teaching programme.
- A supporting statement from the head of the host institution.
The relevant templates are available through the online application form.
Visit the official TWAS Visiting Expert Programme page
For enquiries, contact exchanges@twas.org.
TWAS also states that applicants may apply for only one programme per calendar year across the TWAS and OWSD portfolio, subject to the exception specified for heads of institutions inviting external scholars under the TWAS Visiting Professor programmes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the TWAS Visiting Expert Programme?
It is a programme that enables research institutions in developing countries to invite internationally recognized scientists to support research, teaching and scientific capacity development.
2. Who can apply?
The host institution submits the application. The proposed visiting expert must hold a PhD and have international recognition in an eligible natural science field.
3. Which scientific fields are eligible?
The programme covers natural sciences other than mathematics and physics. Proposals in mathematics and physics should be directed to the relevant ICTP Visiting Scholar/Consultant Programme.
4. How long can a visit last?
The programme overview lists a duration of two to four weeks, and the visit must last at least two weeks.
5. Does TWAS pay for travel?
Yes. TWAS provides the visiting expert with the most direct round-trip economy-class travel. The host institution is expected to cover local expenses.
6. Is there an age limit?
No. The programme does not specify an age limit.
7. When is the application deadline?
The deadline is 23 November 2026.
Opportunities Feed Assessment
The TWAS Visiting Expert Programme may be valuable for universities and research institutions seeking international scientific collaboration, stronger research capacity and improved training opportunities. Institutions should identify a suitable expert and prepare a clear research and teaching plan before submitting the application.
Disclaimer: Opportunities Feed shares international research and capacity-building opportunities for informational purposes. It is not affiliated with TWAS and does not manage applications or selection decisions. Applicants should consult the official programme page for complete requirements.
SEO Keywords: TWAS Visiting Expert Programme 2026, TWAS research opportunities, visiting scientist programme, scientific research collaboration, international research grants, research opportunities in developing countries, TWAS application deadline, PhD scientist opportunities, research capacity building, natural sciences visiting experts
