The purpose of these fellowships is to enhance the research capacity of promising scientists, especially those at the beginning of their research career, helping them to foster links for further collaboration.

The fellowships are for research and advanced training. They are offered to young scientists holding at least an MSc or equivalent degree. Eligible applicants for the fellowships are young scientists working in any area of natural sciences who are citizens of a developing country and are employed by a research institution in a developing country. There is no age limit. However, preference is given to young scientists at the beginning of their research career and those working in Least Developed Countries. Host institutions need to be located in a developing country. Institutes of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), China, are not eligible host institutions under this program.

The fellowships are offered for a minimum of three months and a maximum of twelve months. TWAS covers international low-cost airfare plus a contribution towards subsistence amounting to a maximum of USD 300 per month. The host institution is expected to provide accommodation and food as well as research facilities. Fellowships are awarded by the TWAS Fellowships Committee on the basis of scientific merit.

Applicants must complete the online application form and upload the required documentation, which includes a scanned copy of their passport, a CV of a maximum of five pages, a supporting statement from the Head of the Home Institution, two reference letters from senior scientists, an MSc certificate and relevant university transcripts, and an official invitation letter from the Head of the Host Institute. The deadline is 6 October 2025.

The fellowships are provided for South-South visits only, meaning visits by researchers from developing countries to institutions in other developing countries. Applicants may apply for only one program per calendar year in the TWAS and OWSD portfolio.

For more information, visit TWAS.