UNESCO TWAS CASAREP invites nominations for the TWAS Young Affiliates Programme 2026 from eligible early‑career researchers in the Central and South Asia region. The programme seeks to recognise and support outstanding young scientists, offering them a platform to network with eminent researchers and raise their scientific profile. Selected candidates will be appointed as TWAS CASAREP Young Affiliates for a six‑year term. Nominations are welcome across all fields of Basic and Applied Sciences, with particular encouragement for women scientists from developing countries, especially those from Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Science & Technology (S&T) Lagging Countries.
Eligibility Criteria
1. Age and Doctoral Degree
Applicants must meet one of the following:
• Be 40 years of age or younger and hold a PhD degree, OR
• Hold a PhD degree awarded within the last 5 years (for male candidates) or within the last 8 years (for female candidates), with no age restriction in this case. Please note that only a PhD degree is accepted; no other degrees will be considered.

2. Residency and Professional Experience
• Candidates must have resided and worked in a developing country for at least the three years immediately prior to nomination.
Please note that the candidate must be living AND working in a developing country. Remote work arrangements are acceptable, provided the work is based in a developing country.

3. Scientific Publications and Research Context
A strong record of scientific publications is essential. Evaluation is qualitative, focusing on:
• Quality of each publication
• Relevance of the candidate's research field
• Impact and significance of the research
Evaluation of publications: The selection experts will assess the quality and impact of each publication.
o Publications in international journals carry more weight than those in national journals.
o There is no minimum number of publications required.
4. Exceptions and Special Considerations
The selection committee may grant exceptions to the residency and work experience requirements for:
• Female scientists
• Scientists who are displaced or in exile

Nomination Procedure
Applicants may submit their nomination form duly completed and signed by a TWAS Fellow or the Head of the Institution/Department.
Required documents:
• Nomination letter (on official letterhead) clearly endorsing the candidate.
• Candidate’s CV (including date of birth, PhD award date, full publication list, current affiliation, email address, and phone number).
• Statement of research achievements (max 2 pages).
• List of up to 10 most significant publications with citations and a brief impact note.
• Proof of residency and work in a developing country for the last three years (e.g., employment certificate, visa/entry stamps).

Kindly submit your nominations to: twascasarep@jncasr.ac.in

Application Deadline: 30 May 2026


For inquiries, contact: twascasarep@jncasr.ac.in