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About the CICOPS Research Scholarships
Applications are now open for the 2026 Committee for International Cooperation and Development—CICOPS Research Scholarships. These prestigious scholarships offer an exciting opportunity for researchers from developing countries to carry out collaborative short-term research at the University of Pavia, Italy—one of the oldest and most respected universities in Europe.
The CICOPS Research Scholarships are a joint initiative of the University of Pavia and EDiSU (Institute of the Right to University Studies). These scholarships were established with the goal of promoting international cooperation, particularly with developing countries, by encouraging mobility and research collaboration between scholars from different parts of the world.
The program provides visiting researchers from developing nations with the opportunity to conduct short-term (ranging from 4 to 12 weeks) research in collaboration with professors at the University of Pavia. The scholarships are part of a broader effort to strengthen academic partnerships and promote scientific knowledge exchange, especially in the field of development studies.
Since its inception, the CICOPS Research Scholarships program has supported more than 200 scholars, enabling them to collaborate on innovative research projects and build long-lasting academic relationships that benefit both the scholars’ home institutions and the University of Pavia.
Eligible Fields
The CICOPS program focuses on Development Studies, encompassing a wide range of topics relevant to global development, international cooperation, social sciences, economics, education, health, and environmental sustainability.
Applicants whose research intersects with the University of Pavia’s ongoing projects or departments are especially encouraged to apply.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the CICOPS Research Scholarships 2026, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Professional Experience: Applicants must have at least two years of professional teaching or research experience at a university, research institute, or international organization.
- Academic Background: Both junior and senior researchers affiliated with universities or major research centers in developing countries are encouraged to apply.
- Field of Interest: Applicants should demonstrate a strong interest in development studies and propose a research project relevant to this field.
- Exclusions: Individuals currently enrolled in a doctoral or postgraduate program at any Italian university are not eligible for this scholarship.
- Motivation and Collaboration: A strong motivation to collaborate with a professor or researcher at the University of Pavia is essential. The scholarship prioritizes those seeking to build long-term academic connections and contribute meaningfully to development-related research.
Selection Criteria
The selection process is highly competitive and based on the following criteria:
- Scientific Value of the Research Proposal: Projects with high scientific merit, particularly those aligned with ongoing research at the University of Pavia, will be prioritized.
- Academic Profile of the Applicant: The applicant’s CV, publication record, and professional achievements will be closely reviewed.
- Geographical and Departmental Balance: The selection committee aims to ensure fair geographic distribution of scholars and an equitable involvement of university departments.
In cases where applicants are equally qualified, preference will be given to:
- Researchers from low-income economies, as classified by the World Bank.
- Applicants affiliated with institutions that already have a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) or cooperation agreement with the University of Pavia.
- Applicants formally introduced by Honorary Consuls or members of associations such as UCOI and UCOIM, who maintain academic ties with the university.
Documents Required
Applicants must submit the following documents through the online application portal:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Ideally in European format
- Must include a comprehensive list of publications
- File name format: Surname_Name_CV
- Invitation Letter
- Must be written and signed by a professor or researcher at the University of Pavia with whom the applicant intends to collaborate
- This is a mandatory requirement; applications without this document will be automatically disqualified
- File name format: Surname_Name_Letter
Note: If an applicant does not yet have a contact at the University of Pavia, they are advised to reach out to the CICOPS office to request assistance in obtaining a research proposal form and potential match with a professor.
Eligible Countries
Applicants must be citizens and residents of a country classified as developing by international standards (e.g., World Bank classification). The full list of eligible countries can typically be found on the official CICOPS webpage.
Benefits of the CICOPS Research Scholarships
Successful applicants will receive the following benefits:
- Round-trip international airfare (economy class) to and from Italy
- Accommodation in a University College in Pavia
- Meals provided at university canteens
- Health and personal accident insurance coverage for the duration of the stay
- A weekly stipend of €150 (gross) to help cover additional expenses
These benefits are designed to fully support the scholar during their research stay and enable them to focus on academic collaboration and knowledge exchange.
How to Apply
Follow these steps to complete your application:
- Secure an Invitation Letter
- Identify and contact a professor at the University of Pavia who aligns with your research interests.
- If you do not have an existing contact, email the CICOPS office for support.
- Prepare Your Documents
- Make sure your CV is up to date and includes all relevant publications.
- Obtain and format the invitation letter according to the guidelines.
- Submit Your Application Online
- Visit the CICOPS application portal to complete the online application form.
- Upload all required documents before the deadline: May 31, 2025.
- Wait for the Results
- Applications will be reviewed by a selection committee, and successful applicants will be contacted in due course.
Note: The deadline for application is May 31, 2025
Applicants are encouraged to begin the application process early, as several documents must be prepared in advance, including an invitation letter from a faculty member at the University of Pavia.
This scholarship represents an excellent opportunity for scholars from developing countries to enhance their academic careers, build meaningful international connections, and contribute to global research in development studies.
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
See also:
Tokyo University Amgen Scholars Program 2025: Apply Now!
The Letten Prize 2025 for Researchers: Apply Now!
