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Varies (Least Developed Countries) Postdoctoral Fully Funded

TWAS Research Professors in LDCs 2026 | Visiting Research Fellowship

The TWAS Research Professors programme supports internationally recognized senior scientists to conduct research and teach in Least Developed Countries. Applications for 2026 close on 23 November 2026.

October 20, 2026 ⏰ Deadline: Nov 23, 2026

Quick Overview

Host CountryVaries (Least Developed Countries)
Degree LevelPostdoctoral
Funding TypeFully Funded
Fields of StudyResearch, Science
DeadlineNovember 23, 2026

Scholarship Overview

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Overview

The TWAS Research Professors in LDCs programme is an initiative by The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) that enables internationally recognized senior scientists to spend time conducting research and teaching in Least Developed Countries (LDCs). The programme strengthens scientific capacity in regions with limited research infrastructure while fostering international collaboration.

For African researchers and institutions, particularly in SADC countries classified as LDCs, this programme represents a significant opportunity to host world-class expertise and build lasting academic partnerships.

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What the Programme Offers

The fellowship supports visiting professors to:

  • Conduct collaborative research with local institutions
  • Deliver lectures and advanced training courses
  • Mentor early-career researchers and postgraduate students
  • Strengthen institutional research capabilities in host countries

The specific duration, funding amount, and logistical arrangements are determined through the application process and institutional agreements. Applicants should consult the official TWAS website for detailed terms.

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Eligibility Requirements

Candidates must meet the following criteria:

  • Hold internationally recognized senior scientific status
  • Demonstrate significant research achievements and publications
  • Propose a clear programme of research and teaching activities
  • Identify a host institution in a Least Developed Country
  • Obtain formal invitation and support from the host institution

Host institutions must be located in countries designated by the United Nations as Least Developed Countries. Several African nations fall under this classification, including Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Central African Republic, Chad, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Lesotho, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Niger, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, and Zambia.

Application Process

Applications are submitted through TWAS’s online portal. Follow these steps:

  1. Create an account on the TWAS online application system
  2. Complete all mandatory fields marked with asterisks
  3. Upload required documents including CV, research proposal, and host institution letter
  4. Save progress regularly — the system allows multiple sessions
  5. Review thoroughly before final submission
  6. Submit by the deadline — late applications are not accepted

Important: Once submitted, applications cannot be modified, updated, or deleted. Only viewing access remains available.

Key Dates and Deadlines

Application deadline: 23 November 2026

The programme operates on an annual cycle. Applicants should plan accordingly, as the preparation of a competitive proposal—including securing host institution commitment—typically requires several months.

Technical Support

For technical difficulties with the online application form, contact:

Email: onlineforms@twas.org

General programme inquiries should be directed through the official TWAS website.

Tips for African Applicants

Researchers based in SADC LDCs can maximize this opportunity by:

  • Proactively contacting senior scientists in their field to explore visiting professor arrangements
  • Preparing institutional letters of invitation well in advance
  • Clearly articulating mutual benefits for both the visiting professor and local research capacity
  • Aligning proposed activities with national development priorities and existing research programmes
  • Ensuring institutional commitment to provide adequate facilities and logistical support

Related Opportunities

Researchers interested in this programme may also wish to explore other TWAS initiatives, including research grants for individual scientists, fellowship programmes for postgraduate training, and scientific meeting support. These complementary programmes address different career stages and institutional needs across the developing world.

Related scholarships

Official scholarship page: https://onlineforms.twas.org/apply/312

Apply on the official site →

You apply directly with the provider. We never charge for applications or ask for payment details. How we verify scholarships

Funding Coverage

Not specified in available source material; covers travel and living expenses for visiting professors

Eligibility Criteria

Internationally recognized senior scientists proposing to conduct research and teach in Least Developed Countries; requires formal host institution invitation

Required Documents

CV, research proposal, formal invitation letter from host institution, other supporting documents as required

Application Process

Create account on TWAS online portal, complete mandatory fields, upload documents, save progress as needed, submit before deadline. Applications cannot be edited after submission.
Apply Now — Official Website

You will be redirected to the official scholarship application page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Internationally recognized senior scientists with significant research achievements may apply. You must have a formal invitation from a host institution located in a UN-designated Least Developed Country.
The deadline for submission is 23 November 2026. Late applications will not be considered.
The award provides funding for travel and living expenses during the visiting professorship. Specific amounts are determined during the application review process and are not published in advance.
No. Once submitted, you cannot update, modify, or delete your application. You will only be able to view it. Save your work frequently and review carefully before final submission.
Host institutions must be in UN-designated Least Developed Countries. African LDCs include Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, CAR, Chad, DRC, Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Lesotho, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Niger, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, and Zambia.
Contact TWAS technical support at onlineforms@twas.org. For programme questions, use the contact information on the official TWAS website.