Introduction
The TWAS-UNESCO Associateship Scheme enables accomplished researchers from the Global South to undertake regular, collaborative research visits at nearly 300 centres of excellence across developing countries. Each associateship spans three years, during which the associate may visit the host centre twice, typically for 2–3 months per visit. The programme covers international travel and provides a monthly subsistence contribution (up to USD 300); meanwhile, accommodation, meals, and research facilities are provided by the host centre. Applications are submitted online directly to TWAS.
The TWAS-UNESCO Associateship Scheme funds sustained South–South research collaboration through repeat visits to leading laboratories. Over a three-year term, selected scientists conduct focused projects, access advanced facilities, and build capacity at home institutions. This comprehensive, ad-free guide explains benefits, eligibility, documents, timelines, and proven strategies to submit a competitive application.
At a Glance: Why This Programme Stands Out
- Purpose: Strengthen South–South research partnerships and reduce brain drain by bringing resources to where talent already works.
- Model: A three-year appointment that guarantees repeat access to an agreed host laboratory, enabling momentum and measurable outputs.
- Scale: Close to 300 participating centres distributed across the South, offering diverse equipment, datasets, and field sites.
Who benefits most? Researchers with a defined project
Eligibility & Ideal Profile
- Minimum degree: PhD (or equivalent) in a field of the natural sciences.
- Citizenship/affiliation: You must be from a developing country in the South and typically employed at an eligible institution there.
- Competitiveness: Selection is merit-based; women scientists and applicants from isolated institutions receive special consideration.
- Age limit: None; demonstrated impact and a feasible plan weigh more than chronology.
Fit check. If your group needs instrument time, advanced methods training, or access to specialized field sites—and you intend to return and train colleagues—this scheme aligns closely with your goals. Additionally, candidates who build classroom or lab capacity after each visit tend to show strong programme fit.
Funding & What “Fully Funded” Really Means
- International travel: TWAS funds round-trip airfare for each approved visit.
- Subsistence: Up to USD 300 per month is provided by TWAS for incidental local costs.
- On-site support: The host centre covers accommodation and meals and ensures access to research facilities, supervision, and safety induction.
Because the host underwrites core
Duration, Visits, and Renewal
- Associateship term: 3 years.
- Visit pattern: Two visits of 2–3 months each during the term (timing agreed mutually with the host).
- Possible renewal: Subject to funds, TWAS may grant one additional three-year term.
This cadence supports real research progress. First visits often establish protocols and pilot data; second visits consolidate analyses, complete experiments, and finalize manuscripts, software, or datasets.
Fields & Host Centres
- Field focus: The natural sciences broadly—spanning physical, chemical, mathematical, life, earth, engineering, and computational sciences.
- Host network: TWAS maintains lists of participating institutes—including universities, national laboratories, and specialized centres—distributed across the Global South. Start with methodological fit, then confirm equipment availability, supervisory bandwidth, data governance, and field logistics.
Shortlist strategy. Identify 3–5 centres that converge on your methods (e.g., spectroscopy, advanced microscopy, numerical modeling, ecological surveys). Next, schedule a scoping call to verify feasibility, sample throughput, and co-authorship norms before requesting your letter of invitation.
