RFPs: Graduate Research Assistantships Program in Developing Countries

Deadline: 15-May-2026

The GRAID Program funds graduate research assistantships in mathematics for students in developing countries, supporting Master’s and PhD training while strengthening emerging research groups. Each assistantship provides up to USD 3,500 per year and emphasizes international collaboration, mentorship, and diversity in mathematical research.

Overview

The GRAID Program supports emerging research groups in developing countries by funding talented graduate students to study full-time as research assistants. The initiative promotes graduate-level training in mathematics, international research collaboration, and mentoring of outstanding students. The program encourages diversity in geography, mathematical fields, and gender while fostering sustainable research environments.

Funding and Benefits

• Assistantship Amount: Up to USD 3,500 per student per year

• Eligible Expenses: Tuition fees, accommodation, and basic living costs

• Number of Students: Each research group may apply for up to two students; total funding is shared if multiple students are supported

• Additional Support: Access to academic networking and collaboration with an international mathematician

Objectives and Expected Outcomes

• Strengthen graduate-level mathematics training in developing countries

• Support emerging research groups and foster sustainable research environments

• Mentor outstanding Master’s and PhD students

• Promote international collaboration and academic networking

• Encourage geographical, mathematical, and gender diversity in research

Who Can Apply?

• Principal Investigator Eligibility: University professors in mathematics holding a PhD, based at a university or research center in a developing country

• Must currently supervise Master’s or PhD students

• Serve as the Principal Investigator of an emerging research group

• Maintain active collaboration with an International Partner

Student Eligibility

• Must have an outstanding academic record in mathematical sciences

• Must have secured admission to a Master’s or PhD program

• Students enrolled in joint graduate programs involving institutions outside Priority groups are not eligible

How to Apply

1. Prepare Application Documents: Include collaboration proposal, CVs of Principal Investigator and International Partner, statement from International Partner, and complete student academic records (CVs, transcripts).

2. Collaboration Proposal: Detail mentoring experience, role of International Partner, and other sources of student funding.

3. Submission Format: Applications must be in English and uploaded as PDF files.

4. Deadline: May 15, 2026, 23:59 CET.

5. Submission: Upload all required documents via the official GRAID application portal.

Reporting Requirements

• Annual reports are required from both the Principal Investigator and International Partner

• Reports must detail research activities, publications acknowledging IMU CDC support, and individual student progress

• Continued eligibility is determined by the GRAID Selection Committee based on these reports

Selection Committee

• Chaired by the CDC Secretary for Policy

• Includes members representing diverse geographical regions

• Ensures balanced evaluation across global mathematical communities

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting incomplete applications or missing required documents

• Nominating students without secured Master’s or PhD admission

• Failing to demonstrate an active collaboration with an International Partner

• Omitting clear mentorship and collaboration plans

• Ignoring reporting obligations or deadlines

FAQs

1. What is the maximum funding per student? USD 3,500 per year.

2. How many students can a research group apply for? Up to two students per group.

3. Who can lead the application? University professors in mathematics with a PhD, serving as Principal Investigators of emerging research groups in developing countries.

4. Can students in joint programs outside Priority groups be nominated? No, such students are not eligible.

5. What documents are required? Collaboration proposal, CVs of Principal Investigator and International Partner, statement from International Partner, and student academic records.

6. When is the application deadline? May 15, 2026, at 23:59 CET.

7. Who evaluates the applications? The GRAID Selection Committee, chaired by the CDC Secretary for Policy with geographically diverse members.

Conclusion

The GRAID Program provides crucial financial and academic support to graduate students in mathematics, fostering talent and strengthening emerging research groups in developing countries. By funding assistantships, promoting mentorship, and encouraging international collaboration, GRAID contributes to sustainable mathematical research and diverse global academic networks.

For more information, visit International Mathematical Union.