The TWAS-DFG Cooperation Visits Programme 2026 – SSA offers postdoctoral researchers from sub-Saharan Africa the opportunity to undertake a fully funded three-month research visit to Germany. This prestigious initiative aims to strengthen scientific collaboration between African and German institutions while fostering long-term research partnerships.
The application deadline for the 2026 call is 15 April 2026, and submissions must be completed through the official online portal.
Programme Overview
The TWAS-DFG Cooperation Visits Programme is a joint initiative between TWAS (The World Academy of Sciences) and the German Research Foundation (DFG – Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft). The programme enables early-career researchers based in sub-Saharan Africa to spend up to three months at a research institute in Germany.
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The primary objective is to initiate meaningful scientific collaboration between African and German researchers. These visits are designed to serve as a foundation for long-term partnerships, potentially leading to future joint projects funded through DFG or other international research schemes.
The administration and financial operations of TWAS are carried out by UNESCO, under an agreement between the two organizations.
Funding and Duration
- Duration: 3 months
- Host Country: Germany
- Fields: All academic disciplines
- Degree Requirement: PhD
- Age Limit: None
The visit must be completed within 12 months of the award. Selected researchers will typically undertake their visit between February 2027 and February 2028, with final selection results expected in January or February 2027.
What Does the Programme Cover?
The German Research Foundation (DFG) provides:
- International travel expenses
- Subsistence costs during the stay in Germany
The programme does not cover family members, and part-time visits are not permitted.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the TWAS-DFG Cooperation Visits Programme 2026 – SSA, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Academic Qualifications
- Hold a PhD obtained in 2021 or later.
- For female applicants, the PhD eligibility window may be extended by two years per child, up to a maximum of six years (three children).
Professional Requirements
- Hold a research position at an institution located in a sub-Saharan African country at the time of application.
- Have been actively engaged in a science system (research, teaching, or graduate training) for at least five years in sub-Saharan Africa or a MENA country prior to the call.
Additional Conditions
- Applicants already in Germany are not eligible.
- Applicants with an established collaboration with the intended German host are not eligible. Established collaboration includes co-authored publications, prior MSc/PhD supervision, or extensive joint research history.
- Preparatory discussions (e.g., virtual meetings) are encouraged before submission.
- Previous recipients of a TWAS-DFG Cooperation Visit may not reapply.
Women scientists are strongly encouraged to submit applications.
Finding a German Host Institution
Applicants must independently identify and secure a German host institution. TWAS and DFG do not assist in identifying hosts.
Before applying, the applicant and the German host must jointly develop a detailed research proposal. The host institution must confirm that necessary research facilities will be available during the visit.
An official invitation letter from the German host is mandatory and must clearly outline:
- Proposed visit duration (up to three months)
- Research collaboration objectives
- Confirmation of mutual agreement on the proposal
- Confirmation of available facilities
Application Process
Applications must be submitted exclusively via the online portal using the “Apply Now” button on the programme page. Applicants can save and update their application before submission. However, once submitted, the application cannot be modified.
Required Documents
Applicants must upload:
- Scanned copy of passport (ID page, even if expired)
- Invitation letter from the German host (maximum two pages)
- Two signed reference letters from senior scientists
- Copy of PhD certificate
- Proof of proficiency in English or German
- Supporting statement from the Head/Director of the home institution confirming leave approval
Only complete applications submitted before 15 April 2026 will be considered.
Important Conditions
- Cooperation Visits cannot include family members.
- Fellows may not accept other assignments during the visit period.
- Applicants may apply for only one TWAS or OWSD programme per calendar year.
- In case of non-compliance with programme conditions, DFG reserves the right to reclaim funds.
Why Apply?
The TWAS-DFG Cooperation Visits Programme offers:
- International research exposure
- Access to German research facilities
- Strong potential for long-term collaboration
- Career advancement opportunities
- Enhanced global research visibility
By connecting sub-Saharan African researchers with German institutions, the programme promotes scientific excellence and sustainable research partnerships.
Apply Now!
Deadline
Application Deadline: 15 April 2026
Applicants are strongly encouraged to begin preparations early, particularly in securing a German host and finalizing a joint research proposal.
For more information, visit the TWAS-DFG Cooperation Visits Programme.
