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Description Applications are now open for the TWAS-DFG Cooperation Visits Programme to provide postdoctoral researchers living and working in sub-Saharan Africa with the opportunity to make a three-month ‘Cooperation Visit’ to a research institute in Germany. The primary objective of the programme is to initiate research collaboration between African and German scientists, with the long-term goal of developing sustained partnerships that may later be supported through other programmes of the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft, while strengthening scientific capacity and international cooperation across all academic fields. If approved, funding of up to €10,500 is granted to the German host institution, covering travel expenses, a monthly allowance for living costs, insurance and visa fees, and support for direct project-related laboratory and material costs, all administered according to DFG regulations. The programme enables eligible researchers from sub-Saharan Africa to undertake a research visit of up to three months at a German host institution, provided the visit is carried out within 12 months of the award and falls between February 2027 and February 2028. Travel expenses and subsistence costs for the stay in Germany are covered by DFG, while the administration and financial operations of the programme are handled by the The World Academy of Sciences in cooperation with the UNESCO. Applicants must hold a PhD obtained not earlier than 2021, with specific extensions available for female applicants based on the number of children, up to a maximum extension of six years. At the time of application, they must hold a research position at an institution located in a sub-Saharan African country and must have been engaged in a science system for at least five years in a sub-Saharan African or MENA country. Applicants already in Germany, those with established collaborations with the intended host, and previous recipients of a TWAS–DFG Cooperation Visit are not eligible to apply. Women scientists are especially encouraged to submit applications, and all academic disciplines are considered. Applications must be submitted online by 15 April 2026 and should include a scanned copy of the applicant’s passport, an invitation letter from the German host confirming the agreed research proposal and availability of facilities, two signed reference letters from senior scientists, a copy of the PhD certificate, proof of proficiency in English or German, and a supporting statement from the head or director of the applicant’s home institution confirming approval and leave for the visit if awarded. The programme does not provide support for accompanying family members, does not allow part-time visits, and requires successful applicants to refrain from taking up other assignments during the visit period. Applicants may apply for only one programme per calendar year within the TWAS and OWSD portfolio, subject to the stated exception.

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