TWAS-UNESCO Associateship Scheme 2019/2020 for Researchers

The Joint Associateship Scheme aims to enable competent researchers from the South to visit selected centres regularly for research collaboration.

An associate’s appointment has a fixed duration of three years. During this time, the associate is entitled to visit the host centre twice, for a period of 2 to 3 months each time. Subject to the availability of funds, the appointment may be renewed for a further 3-year term.

In 1994, in cooperation with UNESCO, TWAS instituted an Associateship Scheme to help counteract the brain drain affecting many developing countries. The programme supports regular visits by researchers from developing countries to centres of excellence in the South. Almost 300 centres of excellence in the South have agreed to participate in the programme.

TWAS-UNESCO Associateship Scheme Eligibility.

• Applicants must hold a PhD or equivalent degree;
• The selection of associates is highly competitive; appointments are made on the basis of merit. Special consideration is given to scientists from isolated institutions in developing countries;
• Women scientists are especially encouraged to apply.

TWAS-UNESCO Associateship Scheme Cost.

• The Associateship covers the associate’s travel expenses and a monthly contribution of USD300 towards incidental local expenses. The host centre covers accommodation and food, and provides the research facilities.

How to Apply for TWAS-UNESCO Associateship Scheme. 

Applicants must complete the online application form. While filling in the online application, applicants also need to upload the following documentation:

• Scanned copy of the applicant’s passport, even if expired (page with applicant’s name and surname);
• Supporting Statement from Head of Home Institution;
• The applicant’s curriculum vitae (no more than 4 pages);
• The applicant’s full list of publications;
• PhD certificate;
• Two letters of recommendation by two referees, one of whom should be from an expert from another country;
• A recent invitation letter – on the host institution’s letterhead paper – from one of the Institutions listed in the files available here. It should contain the proposed time of the visits (two to three months for each visit) and should refer to the proposed cooperation. It should be made evident that the applicant and the proposed host have been in contact regarding the scientific work to be done during the visit and that the conditions for conducting the work have been agreed in terms of the timing of the visit and the facilities available.

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