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Apply for TWAS-DFG Cooperation Visits Programme

Deadline: 15-Apr-2026

The TWAS-DFG Cooperation Visits Programme enables postdoctoral researchers from sub-Saharan Africa to undertake three-month research visits at German institutions. With funding up to €10,500, the programme supports travel, living costs, insurance, and project-related expenses while fostering international collaboration and long-term research partnerships.

Overview of the Programme

The TWAS-DFG Cooperation Visits Programme aims to strengthen scientific capacity and international cooperation across all academic disciplines. It provides an opportunity for postdoctoral researchers from sub-Saharan Africa to visit a research institute in Germany, initiate collaborative research, and develop sustained partnerships that may later qualify for further support through Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) programmes.

Funding and Support

  • Funding up to €10,500 per approved visit

  • Covers:

    • Travel expenses to and from Germany

    • Monthly living allowance during the visit

    • Insurance and visa fees

    • Direct project-related laboratory and material costs

  • Administered according to DFG regulations and coordinated by TWAS in cooperation with UNESCO

Duration and Timeline

  • Maximum research visit: 3 months

  • Visit period: February 2027 – February 2028

  • Must be completed within 12 months of the award

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

  • Hold a PhD obtained in 2021 or later (extensions available for women based on number of children, up to six years)

  • Be employed in a research position at a sub-Saharan African institution

  • Have at least five years of engagement in a science system in sub-Saharan Africa or MENA

  • Not already be in Germany or have existing collaborations with the intended host

  • Not have received a previous TWAS-DFG Cooperation Visit

Encouragement: Women scientists are especially encouraged to apply.

Application Requirements

Applications must include:

  • Scanned copy of the applicant’s passport

  • Invitation letter from the German host confirming the research proposal and facility availability

  • Two signed reference letters from senior scientists

  • Copy of the PhD certificate

  • Proof of proficiency in English or German

  • Supporting statement from the head or director of the applicant’s home institution confirming approval and leave

Key Conditions

  • Visits must be full-time; part-time visits are not allowed

  • Family members are not supported

  • Applicants must not take up other assignments during the visit

  • Only one programme application per calendar year is permitted within the TWAS and OWSD portfolio (with stated exceptions)

Programme Objectives

  • Promote research collaboration between African and German scientists

  • Strengthen scientific capacity in sub-Saharan Africa

  • Foster long-term research partnerships across all academic fields

  • Encourage women’s participation and gender equity in research

How to Apply

  1. Identify a German host institution and agree on a research proposal

  2. Prepare all required documents, including invitation letter and references

  3. Submit the application online by 15 April 2026

  4. Await review and funding approval for travel and research visit

Expected Outcomes

  • Establishment of research collaborations between African and German scientists

  • Development of sustained partnerships for future joint research

  • Enhancement of skills, capacity, and expertise in postdoctoral researchers

  • Contributions to international scientific knowledge across disciplines

FAQs

  1. Who can apply?
    Postdoctoral researchers from sub-Saharan Africa holding a PhD obtained in 2021 or later.

  2. What funding is provided?
    Up to €10,500 covering travel, living costs, insurance, visa fees, and project-related expenses.

  3. What is the duration of the visit?
    Maximum three months, full-time, between February 2027 and February 2028.

  4. Can applicants apply more than once per year?
    No, only one programme application per calendar year is allowed within the TWAS and OWSD portfolio.

  5. Are family members supported?
    No, the programme does not provide support for accompanying family members.

  6. What documents are required for application?
    Passport, invitation letter, two reference letters, PhD certificate, proof of language proficiency, and supporting statement from the home institution.

  7. Are women encouraged to apply?
    Yes, women scientists are especially encouraged, with possible extensions on PhD eligibility based on number of children.

Conclusion

The TWAS-DFG Cooperation Visits Programme provides an exceptional opportunity for sub-Saharan African postdoctoral researchers to gain international exposure, develop collaborative research networks, and strengthen scientific capacity. By fostering partnerships with German research institutions, the programme contributes to long-term global cooperation and scientific excellence.

For more information, visit TWAS.