Applications call for TWAS-SISSA-Lincei Research Cooperation Visits Program 2020

Under this scheme, Young scientists from Least Developed Countries who hold an MSc (or higher degree) can visit laboratories located in Trieste, Italy, such as SISSA, for three months to carry out collaborative research projects in Physics, Neuroscience, Mathematics, Science Outreach as well as COVID-related projects and that fall under the umbrella of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Summary 

TWAS, in collaboration with the Lincei Academy and SISSA, offers young scientists from Least Developed Countries the opportunity to visit research laboratories in Trieste, Italy, such as SISSA, to carry out research work in scientific fields within the SISSA portfolio (please see below and also in the application form). Research proposals must fall under the umbrella of sustainability science and thus be relevant to areas that support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The purpose of TWAS-SISSA-Lincei Research Cooperation Visits Program is two-fold:

• To enhance the research capacity of promising scientists, especially those at the beginning of their research career.
• To catalyze the formation of research links for further collaboration.

Requirements 

• Applicants must be a maximum age of 40 years on 31 December of the application year. Must also hold an MSc (or higher degree).
• Applicants must be nationals of a Least Developed Country (please see the United Nations definition at https://www.un.org/development/desa/dpad/least-developed-country-category.html, as well as a list of eligible countries).
• Candidates must hold a research position in the least Developed Country.
• Particular attention will be given to research projects that fall under the umbrella of sustainability science.
• Women scientists are especially encouraged to apply.
• Applicants already on site in the host country are not eligible.
• Only applications in the scientific fields specified below and listed in the application form will be considered.

Application Materials 

• The completed application form.
• Copy of passport, even if expired (only the page with personal details is required).
• The applicant’s curriculum vitae.
• A statement on scientific interests and future plans for research in sustainability sciences in the home country explicitly referring to which SDGs contributions are likely to be made.
• Full list of publications (do not enclose reprints of articles).
• Copy of the MSc (or higher) certificate.
• A recent invitation letter obtained through SISSA which should contain the proposed time of the visit (3 months) and should refer to the proposed cooperation. It should be made evident that the applicant and the proposed host have been in contact regarding the scientific work to be done during the visit and that the conditions for conducting the work have been agreed in terms of the timing of the visit and the facilities available.
• Recent letters of recommendation; which must be submitted separately to TWAS by two referees who are familiar with the applicant’s work. N.B. Only signed reference letters can be accepted.