The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) and The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) have opened applications for their annual Science Diplomacy Summer Course, scheduled to take place 20–23 July 2026 in Trieste, Italy.
The in-person course brings together early-career scientists and policymakers from around the world to strengthen collaboration at the intersection of science, diplomacy, and international policy. The call for applications opened on 8 December 2025, with a final deadline of 29 January 2026.
About the AAAS–TWAS Science Diplomacy Course
Established in 2014, the AAAS–TWAS Science Diplomacy Training Program is designed to expose participants to key concepts in science diplomacy and contemporary global policy challenges related to science, technology, environment, and health. To date, the program has trained over 300 emerging leaders from more than 50 countries.
The course is supported by funding from the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida) and the Golden Family Foundation.
Unique “Participant Pair” Model
Applications are invited from participant pairs, consisting of:
- An Early-Career Scientist (ECS): preferably aged 40 or below, holding a PhD, with research relevant to international policymaking
- A Decisionmaker (DM): a policymaker, diplomat, civil servant, government official, or representative of a research funding or international organization
Both participants should ideally be based in the same country but not work at the same institution. Applications submitted without a confirmed participant pair will not be considered.
Eligibility and Priority Countries
The call is open globally, but priority and financial support will be given to applicants from countries that have not been represented in the course over the past five years. Preference is also given to applicants from developing countries, Science & Technology Lagging Countries (STLCs), and Least Developed Countries (LDCs).
Women, refugee scientists, and displaced researchers are strongly encouraged to apply.
Funding and Participation Costs
For selected participant pairs, the organizers will cover:
- International travel
- Accommodation
- Visa processing fees
- Meals and incidentals
- Local transportation in Trieste
A limited number of self-funded participants, including those from high-income countries, may also be admitted.
Application Process and Timeline
- Applications submitted online via the TWAS portal only
- One joint application form per participant pair
- The Early-Career Scientist is responsible for completing and submitting the full application
- Applications must be completed in English
Key dates:
- Call opens: 8 December 2025
- Application deadline: 29 January 2026 (CET)
- Selection results announced: End of April 2026
Course Location and Commitment
The course will be held in person in Trieste, Italy, with mandatory attendance for all days. Failure of either participant to attend the full course will result in disqualification of the pair.
