Deadline: April 15, 2026
The TWAS-DFG Cooperation Visits Programme – SSA 2026 offers an exceptional opportunity for early-career postdoctoral researchers from sub-Saharan Africa to strengthen scientific collaboration with research institutions in Germany. This prestigious initiative, jointly organised by TWAS (The World Academy of Sciences) and the DFG (Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft – German Research Foundation), supports research visits of up to three months to foster sustainable scientific partnerships and international collaboration.
About the TWAS-DFG Cooperation Visits Programme – SSA 2026
The TWAS-DFG Cooperation Visits Programme – SSA 2026 is designed to build strong research ties between African and German scientists. Through this programme, successful applicants can visit a research institute in Germany for a short-term, intensive collaboration period.
The aim is to help participants establish long-term cooperation networks that may lead to further academic and research opportunities, including joint projects or follow-up funding.
Programme Objectives
The programme seeks to:
- Encourage scientific collaboration between researchers in sub-Saharan Africa and Germany.
- Support early-career postdoctoral scientists in expanding their research capacity and global exposure.
- Facilitate sustainable research links through short-term visits that can evolve into long-term cooperation.
Key Details
- Application Deadline: 15 April 2026
- Visit Duration: Up to 3 months
- Visit Period: Within 12 months after the award notification (typically between 2026 and 2027)
Applicants are encouraged to plan their visit dates strategically, ensuring alignment with their research goals and the host institution’s schedule.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the TWAS-DFG Cooperation Visits Programme – SSA 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a postdoctoral researcher residing and working in a sub-Saharan African country at the time of application.
- Hold a PhD obtained in 2021 or later. For female applicants with children, eligibility is extended by two years per child (up to three children).
- Have been engaged in research, teaching, or postgraduate training at an African institution for at least five years prior to applying.
- Not currently reside in Germany at the time of application.
- Not have an established collaboration with the intended German host (e.g. no co-authored publications or prior supervision relationship).
- Not have previously received a TWAS-DFG Cooperation visit award (a second visit may be supported under a separate DFG scheme).
All academic disciplines are eligible, and women scientists are strongly encouraged to apply.
Financial Support
The programme provides comprehensive financial assistance, including:
- Travel support: Return air travel from the applicant’s home country to Germany.
- Subsistence allowance: A monthly stipend provided by DFG to cover living expenses during the visit.
The funding is designed to ensure participants can focus on meaningful research engagement without financial constraints.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit a complete online application with the following supporting documents:
- A scanned copy of a valid passport (expired copies are accepted if recent).
- A formal invitation letter from a host institution in Germany, written on official letterhead and specifying the visit duration and research collaboration details.
- Two reference letters from senior scientists who can attest to the applicant’s academic and research credentials.
- A certified copy of the PhD certificate.
- Proof of language proficiency in English or German.
- A supporting statement from the applicant’s home institution confirming leave of absence for the visit if selected.
Selection and Timeline
Applications undergo a competitive selection process. Successful candidates are typically notified around January or February 2027, and visits are expected to take place between February 2027 and February 2028.
The review process prioritises scientific merit, the potential for long-term cooperation, and the quality of the proposed collaboration between the applicant and the German host institution.
Why You Should Apply
Participating in the TWAS-DFG Cooperation Visits Programme – SSA 2026 offers a range of professional and academic benefits, including:
- Access to world-class research facilities in Germany.
- Opportunity to build international partnerships with leading scientists.
- Development of cross-cultural research competence and exposure to advanced research methodologies.
- Enhanced visibility within the global scientific community, opening pathways for future collaborations and funding opportunities.
How to Apply
Eligible applicants are required to submit their complete applications through the official portal before the deadline. Early preparation is highly recommended to ensure all required documents and references are ready for submission.
🔹 Read more about the programme
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