Deadline: 15-Jul-2026
The IMU–Simons Research Fellowship is an international research mobility program administered by the International Mathematical Union (IMU). It is designed to support mathematicians based in developing countries by enabling them to conduct research visits at host institutions abroad.
The program promotes global academic collaboration in mathematics and strengthens research capacity through international exposure.
Key Objectives of the Fellowship
The fellowship aims to:
- Support international research collaboration in mathematics
- Enable short-term research visits to foreign institutions
- Strengthen academic exchange between developing and developed countries
- Enhance research capacity of mathematicians in developing countries
- Promote professional development through global academic exposure
The program focuses on advancing mathematical research through mobility and collaboration.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be mathematicians working in developing countries
- Have an active research profile in mathematics
- Secure an invitation from a host institution abroad
- Obtain approval/leave confirmation from their home institution
- Demonstrate a clear research plan for the visit
Both institutional support and academic alignment are required for eligibility.
Fellowship Duration and Funding
- Duration: Up to 3 months
- Funding range: USD 5,000 to USD 15,000
The funding is designed to support short-term, focused research visits.
What the Funding Covers
The fellowship provides financial support for essential travel and living expenses, including:
- Economy-class airfare
- Visa application fees
- Health insurance
- Accommodation costs
- Daily living allowance
- Limited local transportation during the visit
The funding is intended strictly for research visit-related costs.
Program Scope and Limitations
The fellowship is specifically designed for:
- Short-term research mobility
- Academic collaboration and knowledge exchange
- Focused mathematical research visits
It does not cover:
- Conference participation during the fellowship period
- Extended travel beyond the approved research visit
- Non-research-related expenses
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit:
- Invitation letter from the host institution
- Approval from the home institution (leave confirmation)
- Detailed research plan
- Budget breakdown of expected expenses
- Supporting academic documents
Strong applications clearly demonstrate research value and feasibility.
Selection Priorities
Applications are evaluated based on:
- Quality and relevance of research proposal
- Strength of host institution collaboration
- Academic merit and research potential
- Contribution to international mathematical collaboration
- Capacity-building impact in the applicant’s home country
- Feasibility of the research visit plan
Why the Fellowship Matters
The IMU–Simons Research Fellowship is important because it:
- Expands access to global research networks in mathematics
- Reduces geographic barriers to academic collaboration
- Strengthens mathematical research in developing countries
- Encourages knowledge transfer between institutions
- Builds long-term international academic partnerships
- Supports early and mid-career researchers in advancing their work
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing formal invitation from a host institution
- Weak or unclear research plan
- Insufficient justification of academic relevance
- Incomplete budget breakdown
- Lack of home institution approval
- Proposing conference travel instead of focused research visits
Tips for a Strong Application
- Secure a strong and relevant host institution early
- Clearly define research objectives and outcomes
- Align proposal with host institution expertise
- Provide a realistic and detailed budget
- Emphasize collaboration benefits for both institutions
- Show how the visit advances long-term research goals
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the IMU–Simons Research Fellowship?
A funding program supporting mathematicians from developing countries to conduct short-term research visits abroad.
Who is eligible?
Mathematicians based in developing countries with institutional support and a host invitation.
How much funding is provided?
Between USD 5,000 and USD 15,000.
What is the duration of the fellowship?
Up to 3 months.
What expenses are covered?
Airfare, visa, insurance, accommodation, daily allowance, and local transport.
Is conference travel allowed?
No, the fellowship does not cover conference participation.
What is required before applying?
A host institution invitation and home institution approval.
Conclusion
The IMU–Simons Research Fellowship is a targeted international mobility grant that strengthens mathematical research capacity in developing countries. By funding short-term research visits abroad, it enables meaningful academic collaboration, knowledge exchange, and long-term professional growth in the global mathematics community.
For more information, visit International Mathematical Union.
