Discover the TWAS Fellowships 2026–2027 for PhD and postdoctoral researchers. Learn about eligibility, benefits, application requirements, host institutions, and opportunities to study at leading research institutions in developing countries.
World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) offers one of the world’s largest South-South fellowship programmes, providing outstanding researchers from developing countries with opportunities to pursue PhD and postdoctoral studies at leading scientific institutions.
Working with universities and research organizations across Asia, Africa, and other developing regions, TWAS helps early-career scientists strengthen their research skills, gain international experience, and contribute to scientific development in their home countries.
Each year, TWAS offers approximately:
- 160 PhD Fellowships
- 100 Postdoctoral Fellowships
These fellowships are delivered in collaboration with multiple international partners across several countries.
About TWAS
The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) is an international scientific organization dedicated to advancing science and sustainable development in developing countries. Through fellowships, grants, awards, and capacity-building initiatives, TWAS supports talented researchers and strengthens scientific institutions around the world.
Its fellowship programmes aim to promote excellence in scientific research while encouraging collaboration among institutions across the Global South.
Fellowship Objectives
TWAS Fellowships are designed to:
- Support advanced scientific education.
- Develop research capacity in developing countries.
- Promote South-South scientific collaboration.
- Strengthen universities and research institutions.
- Build the next generation of scientific leaders.
- Encourage knowledge transfer and innovation.
- Foster international research partnerships.
Fellowship Categories
TWAS PhD Fellowships
The TWAS PhD Fellowship Programme enables qualified researchers from developing countries to pursue doctoral studies at recognized research institutions in participating countries.
The programme provides opportunities to undertake high-quality scientific research while earning a PhD degree.
TWAS Postdoctoral Fellowships
The Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme supports researchers who have already completed a PhD and wish to further develop their research expertise through advanced postdoctoral training.
Participants work with experienced researchers, access modern laboratories, and contribute to internationally recognized research projects.
Partner Institutions
TWAS collaborates with numerous universities and research institutes across developing countries.
The fellowship programme currently operates in partnership with institutions across six countries for PhD fellowships and five countries for postdoctoral fellowships, offering access to world-class scientific training and research facilities.
Fields of Study
TWAS fellowships support research in a wide range of scientific disciplines, including:
- Agriculture
- Biology
- Biotechnology
- Chemistry
- Earth Sciences
- Engineering
- Environmental Science
- Information and Computer Technology
- Mathematics
- Medical Sciences
- Physics
- Sustainable Development
- Related scientific and technological fields
Specific fields vary depending on the host institution and fellowship programme.
Who Can Apply?
Eligibility requirements differ by programme, but applicants are generally expected to:
- Be citizens of a developing country.
- Meet the academic qualifications required for the selected fellowship.
- Apply to an eligible TWAS partner institution.
- Demonstrate strong academic and research potential.
- Meet any additional requirements established by the host institution.
Applicants should carefully review the specific eligibility criteria for their chosen fellowship before applying.
Fellowship Benefits
Depending on the fellowship programme and host institution, participants may receive:
- Advanced research training.
- Access to modern laboratories and scientific equipment.
- Supervision by experienced researchers.
- International research collaboration opportunities.
- Professional networking.
- Career development support.
- Enhanced scientific expertise.
- Opportunities to contribute to research addressing global and regional challenges.
The exact financial and academic benefits vary according to the partner institution and fellowship scheme.
Application Requirements
Applicants are generally required to prepare:
- Completed online application.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates.
- Research proposal (where required).
- Passport or national identification.
- Supporting academic documents.
- A preliminary acceptance letter issued in the same calendar year by the selected host institution.
The preliminary acceptance letter is a mandatory requirement for most TWAS fellowship applications.
Important Application Guidelines
Applicants should note the following:
- Applications can only be submitted through the official online application portal.
- Applications are accepted only while the selected fellowship call is open.
- Applicants should request an acceptance letter from the host institution as early as possible, even before the fellowship application period begins.
- Only one application may be submitted per applicant within the TWAS and OWSD fellowship portfolio during a calendar year.
- Applicants may not participate in another TWAS programme at a different institution during the same year.
Following these guidelines helps ensure that applications are complete and eligible for review.
Selection Process
Applications are assessed based on factors such as:
- Academic excellence.
- Research experience.
- Quality of the proposed research.
- Suitability of the host institution.
- Scientific potential.
- Compliance with programme requirements.
Successful candidates are selected through a competitive review process.
Why Apply for a TWAS Fellowship?
TWAS Fellowships provide an excellent opportunity to:
- Earn a PhD or gain postdoctoral experience.
- Conduct research at internationally recognized institutions.
- Build global scientific networks.
- Access advanced research facilities.
- Strengthen research skills.
- Increase future academic and career opportunities.
- Contribute to scientific advancement in developing countries.
Current Status
TWAS opens fellowship calls at different times throughout the year. Interested applicants should monitor future announcements and prepare their documents—including obtaining a preliminary acceptance letter—in advance of the next application cycle.
Conclusion
The TWAS Fellowships Programme continues to be one of the leading opportunities for scientists from developing countries seeking advanced research training. By supporting PhD and postdoctoral studies through partnerships with top research institutions, TWAS helps develop skilled researchers who can drive scientific innovation and sustainable development across the Global South.
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