CFPs: International Centre for Theoretical Sciences Program (India)

Deadline: 31-Jan-2026

The International Centre for Theoretical Sciences (ICTS) invites faculty-led proposals for collaborative programs and training activities in physical and mathematical sciences, computational sciences, theoretical computer science, and complex systems. The ICTS Program emphasizes education, mentorship, and human resource development rather than conference-style events.

Overview

The ICTS Program supports structured academic programs designed to train and mentor younger researchers while fostering collaboration in emerging areas of science. Programs receive administrative and financial support from ICTS, provided they meet strict academic and organizational standards.

Who Can Apply?

• Faculty members at research or educational institutions

• Programs must have at least two or more organizers

• Applications in any research area of:

  • Physical and mathematical sciences

  • Physical biology

  • Computational sciences

  • Theoretical computer science

  • Complex systems (e.g., climate, fluids)

Program Focus and Objectives

• Emphasis on education and training, not conferences or general workshops

• Support for training schools or advanced topic workshops otherwise unavailable to Indian students and faculty

• Preparatory sessions may precede advanced programs to ensure participants can fully engage

• Strengthen human resource development in basic sciences

• Foster collaboration and mentorship among junior researchers

Proposal Requirements

1. Theme and Objectives: Clear articulation of scientific focus, timeliness, and intended outcomes

2. Organizers and Speakers: At least two organizers; list potential speakers and topics with preliminary confirmations

3. Program Structure: Justification of duration (typically 2–3 weeks) and format

4. Diversity & Inclusion: Representation in organizers, speakers, and participants

5. Overlap & Alignment: Clarify relation to existing programs or complementary initiatives

6. Participant Logistics: Expected number of participants, accommodation needs, and travel support (students/postdocs to twin-share; limited international travel support)

7. Funding Disclosure: List any confirmed or potential external financial support

ICTS Support

• Financial and administrative assistance based on program needs

• Hosting of all electronic materials on ICTS platforms

• Guidance and feedback from the ICTS Program Committee during proposal review

How to Apply

1. Prepare a detailed proposal addressing all requirements above

2. Submit via the ICTS website through the designated link

3. Undergo review by the ICTS Program Committee consisting of leading scientists

4. Only proposals recommended positively by the Committee receive funding and support

Tips for a Strong Proposal

• Emphasize the educational and collaborative value of your program

• Demonstrate scientific merit and timeliness

• Justify program duration and structure in line with ICTS standards

• Highlight potential impact on participants and the scientific community

• Ensure preliminary confirmations from key speakers to demonstrate feasibility

FAQ

1. Can ICTS programs be conference-style events? No, ICTS focuses on structured training and collaboration, not conferences.

2. Who is eligible to submit a proposal? Faculty members at recognized research or educational institutions.

3. How long do programs typically run? Two to three weeks, depending on the complexity and objectives.

4. Is international travel supported? Limited support; students and postdocs are expected to twin-share accommodations.

5. Can previous ICTS program participants apply again? Yes, provided the proposal meets current scientific and pedagogical criteria.

6. Is external funding encouraged? Yes, organizers are encouraged to seek additional financial support and disclose it in the proposal.

7. Where will program materials be hosted? All electronic materials are hosted on ICTS platforms.

Conclusion

The ICTS Program offers a unique opportunity for faculty-led initiatives to advance education, mentorship, and collaboration in science. By focusing on structured programs rather than conferences, ICTS ensures participants gain deep learning, research exposure, and networking opportunities that contribute to the development of the next generation of scientific leaders.

For more information, visit ICTS.