Science Diplomacy Course 2026 and TWAS, Italy (July 20, 2026)

The Science Diplomacy Course 2026 Italy stands as a transformative opportunity for researchers and policymakers to bridge the gap between scientific innovation and international governance. Organized by The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) and the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), this flagship programme is designed to foster a new generation of leaders capable of addressing global challenges in health, technology, and the environment. Furthermore, this fully funded course facilitates direct engagement between early-career scientists and decision-makers, creating a unique collaborative ecosystem.

Program Highlights

Feature	Details
Program Title	AAAS–TWAS Course on Science Diplomacy
Organizing Institution	TWAS & AAAS
Location	Trieste, Italy
Dates	20 – 23 July 2026
Mode of Delivery	In-person (Offline)
Daily Schedule	Full-day workshops & expert sessions

Program Overview

The primary objective of this course is to build capacity at the intersection of science, policy, and diplomacy. Specifically, the programme aims to expose participants to key contemporary international policy issues while providing a practical understanding of how science interacts with global diplomatic processes. Unlike traditional academic conferences, this course emphasizes active collaboration, requiring applicants to apply as a “pair.” Consequently, this structure ensures that both scientific and policy perspectives are represented equally, fostering immediate and practical dialogue on issues affecting developing countries and the global community.

Eligibility Criteria

To ensure a balanced representation of sectors, the application process is strictly paired. Individual applications are not accepted. The specific eligibility requirements for each partner are as follows:

Participant 1: Early-Career Scientist

• Must have completed a PhD.
• Preferably aged 40 years or younger.
• Should be actively living and working in a developing country (though the call is open to all).
• Must demonstrate an interest in policy-making or international cooperation.

Participant 2: Decisionmaker

• No PhD is required for this category.
• Must be currently working in policy-making, government, diplomacy, funding agencies, or international organizations (e.g., UN, NGOs).
• Ideally working with the applicant scientist or in a related field.

Curriculum & Topics Covered

The curriculum is meticulously designed to move beyond theory and into practice. Over the course of four days, participants will engage in expert-led sessions and peer-to-peer exchange. Key themes include:

• Science-Policy Interfaces: Understanding how scientific data informs policy decisions.
• International Governance: Navigating the complexities of cross-border scientific cooperation.
• Global Challenges: Addressing critical issues such as climate change, public health, and sustainable technology through a diplomatic lens.
• Diplomatic Skill Building: Practical workshops on negotiation, communication, and protocol.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the programme, participants will be able to:

• Navigate complex international scientific landscapes with greater confidence.
• Bridge the communication gap between technical experts and policymakers.
• Develop actionable strategies for science diplomacy within their home countries.
• Access a global alumni network spanning over 50 countries for future collaboration.

Financial Support & Benefits

This programme is highly competitive and offers significant financial support to selected pairs, particularly those from developing countries. The organizers will cover the following expenses for successful applicants:

• Travel: Round-trip airfare to Trieste, Italy.
• Accommodation: Lodging for the duration of the course.
• Visa Expenses: Reimbursement of visa fees.
• Subsistence: Meals and incidentals during the course.
• Note: A limited number of self-supported slots are available for candidates from developed countries.

Registration Details

Detail	Information
Registration Link	Apply via TWAS Portal
Call Opened	08 December 2025
Application Deadline	29 January 2026 (Midnight CET)
Result Announcement	End of April 2026
Registration Fee	Free for selected funded participants
Selection Criteria	Pair strength, relevance to science diplomacy, and geographical balance

Contact Information

For specific inquiries regarding eligibility or the application process, candidates can reach out directly to the organizing committee.

• Email: sciencediplomacy@twas.org
• Website: TWAS Official Website

Key Highlights

• Global Networking: Join an exclusive alumni network of leaders from over 50 nations.
• Expert Guidance: Learn directly from seasoned diplomats and leading scientists.
• Interactive Format: The course moves away from passive lectures, focusing instead on role-playing, simulations, and case studies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I apply for the Science Diplomacy Course 2026 Italy?
You must submit a single online application via the TWAS portal. The Early-Career Scientist is responsible for submitting both parts of the paired application.

Is accommodation provided for participants?
Yes, selected pairs will receive full financial support, which includes accommodation, travel, and visa expenses.

Can I apply individually without a partner?
No, applications without a confirmed partner (one scientist and one policymaker) will not be considered.

Who is eligible as a “Decisionmaker”?
A decisionmaker includes professionals working in government ministries, funding agencies, embassies, or international organizations like the UN. A PhD is not required for this role.

What is the deadline for the application?
The deadline to submit your application is 29 January 2026. Late submissions will not be accepted.