Deadline: 15-Apr-2026

The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) is inviting postdoctoral researchers from the MENA region to apply for the TWAS-DFG Cooperation Visits Programme. Successful applicants can undertake a three-month research visit to a German institution between February 2027 and February 2028, receiving funding of up to EUR 10,500 for travel, living, and research costs.

Overview of the Programme

The TWAS-DFG Cooperation Visits Programme aims to:

• Strengthen scientific collaboration between MENA countries and Germany

• Initiate research partnerships across all academic fields

• Encourage long-term collaboration via other Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) programmes

• Promote capacity-building and knowledge exchange

Funding Details

Financial support covers essential costs during the three-month visit in Germany:

• Subsistence allowance: Up to EUR 2,350 per month for accommodation, living expenses, insurance, and visa costs, paid to the German host institution

• Travel expenses: Up to EUR 1,350 for round-trip travel

• Direct research costs: Up to EUR 700 per month to the host institution for project-related expenses

• Total funding: Approximately EUR 10,500 per visit, depending on the duration and eligible costs

Duration and Timing

• Visit length: Up to three months

• Visit period: Between February 2027 and February 2028

• Visits must be undertaken within 12 months of award notification

• Results announced: January–February 2027

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Hold a PhD obtained no earlier than 2021 (female applicants may extend the limit by two years per child, up to six years maximum)

• Hold a research position at a MENA institution

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

• Not be currently in Germany

• Not have an established collaboration with the intended host (joint publications, prior supervision, or extensive collaboration)

• Not have previously received a TWAS–DFG Cooperation Visit

• Be committed to full-time participation during the visit period

• Women scientists are especially encouraged to apply

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit a complete online application by 15 April 2026, including:

• Scanned passport copy

• Invitation letter from the German host confirming the visit period, research proposal, and availability of facilities

• Two reference letters from senior scientists

• PhD certificate copy

• Proof of English or German proficiency

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

Restrictions and Conditions

• No support for accompanying family members

• Part-time visits are not allowed

• Applicants must refrain from other assignments during the visit

• Only one programme application per calendar year in TWAS/OWSD portfolio is permitted, with limited exceptions

Why It Matters

• Builds international research networks and strengthens academic links between MENA and Germany

• Supports capacity-building and knowledge transfer in diverse academic fields

• Encourages sustainable and long-term collaborations between researchers and institutions

Tips for Applicants

• Ensure eligibility criteria, including PhD year and institutional affiliation, are met

• Obtain a detailed invitation letter from the German host specifying research proposal and facilities

• Submit complete and high-quality documentation online by the deadline

• Avoid submitting if there is an existing extensive collaboration with the host institution

• Plan for full-time commitment during the visit period

FAQs

1. Who is eligible for the TWAS-DFG Cooperation Visits Programme?
   Postdoctoral researchers in the MENA region with a PhD obtained no earlier than 2021 (extensions for women based on children).

2. What does the funding cover?
   Travel expenses, monthly subsistence allowance, insurance, visa costs, and direct research-related costs, up to EUR 10,500.

3. How long can the cooperation visit last?
   Up to three months, between February 2027 and February 2028.

4. Can researchers with prior collaborations apply?
   No, applicants with established collaborations with the intended host are not eligible, though preparatory virtual meetings are allowed.

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

6. When is the application deadline?
   15 April 2026

7. Can an applicant submit multiple applications in the same year?
   No, generally only one application per calendar year within the TWAS/OWSD portfolio is permitted.

Conclusion

The TWAS-DFG Cooperation Visits Programme 2026 offers MENA postdoctoral researchers a unique opportunity to collaborate with German institutions, build international networks, and gain exposure to advanced research environments. By fostering short-term research visits, the programme strengthens scientific collaboration and capacity-building across disciplines while supporting long-term partnerships.

For more information, visit TWAS.