TWAS, the world academy of sciences – for the advancement of science in developing countries – www.twas.org – is a global science academy based in Trieste, Italy, working to advance science and engineering for sustainable prosperity in the developing world. TWAS represents the best of science in the developing world. Its principal aim is to promote scientific capacity and excellence for sustainable development in the South. Since 1986, TWAS has been supporting scientists and institutions in developing countries through a wide range of programmes that focus on scientific capacity building largely through South-South cooperation. The administration and financial operation of TWAS is undertaken by UNESCO in accordance with an agreement between UNESCO and the Italian Government for TWAS.

In 1994, in cooperation with UNESCO, TWAS instituted an Associateship Scheme to help counteract the brain drain affecting many developing countries. The programme supports regular visits by researchers from developing countries to centres of excellence in the South. Almost 300 centres of excellence in the South have agreed to participate in the programme, which is supported with funds from UNESCO and the government of Italy.

• Applicants must hold a PhD or equivalent degree. The selection of associates is highly competitive; appointments are made on the basis of merit. Special consideration is given to scientists from isolated institutions in developing countries. Women scientists are especially encouraged to apply.
• Appointments have a fixed duration of three years. During this time, the associate is entitled to visit the host centre twice, for a period of 2 to 3 months each time. Subject to the availability of funds, the appointment may be renewed for a further 3-year term.
• The Associateship covers the associate’s travel expenses and a monthly contribution of US$300 towards incidental local expenses. The host centre covers accommodation and food, and provides the research facilities.

Applications for TWAS-UNESCO Associateships should include:

• the completed application form
• the applicant’s curriculum vitae
• the applicant’s full list of publications
• two recommendation letters, one of which must be from an expert from another country who is familiar with the applicant’s work (to be submitted separately)

Applications must reach the TWAS Secretariat by 1 December of each year at the following address:

TWAS Associateships
ICTP Campus
Strada Costiera 11
34151 Trieste
Italy

Phone: +39 040 2240-330
Fax: +39 040 2240-689
E-mail: associateship@twas.org