Are you an academic researcher from a developing country seeking to expand your global research collaborations? The CICOPS Scholarships Program 2026 in Italy presents an exceptional opportunity for international scholars to conduct short-term research at one of Europe’s most historic institutions—the University of Pavia. This Fully Funded Scholarship is designed to foster scientific cooperation and institutional development between Italy and the Global South.
Jointly managed by the University of Pavia and EDISU (the Institute for the Right to University Study), the CICOPS Program aims to strengthen research capacities, enhance academic mobility, and contribute to the broader agenda of sustainable development and global academic equity.
Whether you specialize in engineering, health sciences, humanities, or development studies, this unique academic fellowship enables you to connect with experienced Italian faculty, access state-of-the-art research resources, and immerse yourself in Italy’s rich intellectual and cultural heritage.
Program Details
Host Country:
Italy
Program Location:
University of Pavia
Program Duration:
4 to 12 weeks
(Exact duration depends on the submitted research proposal and the alignment with the host department.)
Mode of Research:
On-site, collaborative research project with a faculty member at the University of Pavia
Program Themes or Focus Areas
Participants must propose a research project that aligns with one of the university’s active academic departments. Eligible disciplines include:
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Chemistry, Physics, Civil Engineering
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Electrical, Computer, and Biomedical Engineering
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Mathematics, Earth and Environmental Sciences
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Biology, Neuroscience, and Public Health
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Law, Economics, Cultural Heritage, and Humanities
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Political and Social Sciences, Development Studies
The University of Pavia houses cutting-edge laboratories, globally recognized research hubs, and a long tradition of academic excellence. Accepted fellows will work closely with faculty mentors to advance interdisciplinary inquiry and global research innovation.
Benefits
The CICOPS Scholarship 2026 offers a comprehensive and competitive funding package, ensuring that selected scholars can focus entirely on their research without financial stress.
Fully Funded Benefits include:
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Round-trip international airfare to and from Italy
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Free meals at official University of Pavia canteens
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Accommodation for the full duration of the research stay
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Weekly stipend of €150 to cover personal expenses
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Health and personal accident insurance
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Access to libraries, research labs, and computing facilities
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Administrative and visa support, including documentation and logistics
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the CICOPS Scholarships Program 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
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Nationality: Must be a citizen of a Developing Country
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Professional Background: Must be an academic or researcher with at least two years of teaching or institutional experience
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Academic Level: Open to both junior and senior academic staff
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Enrollment Status: Not eligible if currently enrolled in a doctoral or postgraduate program in Italy
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Proposal Requirement: Must submit a well-defined research proposal that aligns with a specific department at the University of Pavia
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Acceptance Requirement: Must confirm acceptance of the scholarship within 20 days of notification
The program is especially ideal for those engaged in higher education, development-focused research, or university-level instruction who wish to build lasting collaborations with European institutions.
Selection Process
The selection process is competitive and based on academic merit, research feasibility, and the alignment of the applicant’s proposal with the university’s ongoing research agendas. A selection panel from the University of Pavia’s International Relations Office will assess each submission carefully.
Candidates with interdisciplinary research proposals and those contributing to institutional partnerships between Italian and Global South universities will receive priority consideration.
How to Apply
Follow the step-by-step application process below:
Step 1: Secure a Letter of Invitation
Identify a faculty member at the University of Pavia who aligns with your area of research and request an invitation letter for collaboration.
If you’re unable to find a suitable professor, contact the CICOPS office at cicops@unipv.it to receive a Research Proposal Form. This will help match you with the appropriate department.
Step 2: Fill Out the Online Application Form
Complete the official application form available on the CICOPS portal. You will be asked to upload your CV, invitation letter, and other relevant information.
Step 3: Submit Your Documents
Ensure all required documents are in the correct format and properly named (e.g., Surname_Name_CV.pdf, Surname_Name_Letter.pdf). Submit the application before the stated deadline.
Step 4: Await Confirmation
If selected, you will be notified via email with further instructions, including logistical support for travel and accommodation arrangements.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:
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CV in European Format
(Make sure it is titled “Surname_Name_CV”)
Download EU CV Template -
Invitation Letter from a Faculty Member at the University of Pavia
(Titled “Surname_Name_Letter”) -
Completed Online Application Form
Via the official CICOPS Application Portal
All documents must be submitted in English or Italian. Incomplete or incorrectly formatted applications may be disqualified.
Application Deadline
🗓 31st May, 2025
Late applications will not be accepted, and it is strongly advised to begin the process early, especially when requesting an invitation from faculty members.
Why Apply for the CICOPS Scholarship?
With a mission rooted in equity and international collaboration, the CICOPS Program is more than a fellowship—it is a bridge between knowledge systems, a catalyst for change, and a step toward global research solidarity.
By participating, you will:
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Build lasting academic and institutional partnerships
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Gain experience in European research methodologies
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Broaden your academic reach through intercultural exchange
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Contribute to the advancement of global sustainable development goals (SDGs)
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Access future opportunities for joint publications, grants, and innovation platforms
The CICOPS community includes alumni who have gone on to influence higher education policy, launch research centers in their home countries, and lead regional academic development initiatives.
Contact & Support
For inquiries or guidance, please contact:
Email: cicops@unipv.it
Website: https://cicops.unipv.it
Location: University of Pavia, Italy
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