UNU-WIDER Visiting Scholars Program 2026/2027

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Applications are invited from suitably qualified researchers for the UNU-WIDER Visiting Scholars Program 2027 in Helsinki, Finland. The programme provides researchers with an opportunity to pursue academic work on development and global economic issues within the United Nations University World Institute for Development Economics Research (UNU-WIDER). It is designed for scholars who want to deepen their research while engaging with an international research community.

Successful participants normally spend approximately two to three months at UNU-WIDER, where they can conduct research related to their areas of expertise and take part in relevant institute activities. The visiting period provides scholars with access to an academic environment where they can exchange ideas, interact with researchers and further develop their work on important economic and development questions.

As part of the programme, visiting scholars are expected to prepare research papers based on their work during the fellowship. Papers produced through the programme may be considered for publication in the WIDER Working Paper Series, providing participants with an opportunity to further develop and share their research with a wider academic audience.

SUMMARY:

• Program Sponsor: UNU-WIDER
• Host Institution: UNU-WIDER, Helsinki, Finland
• Program Type: Fully Funded
• Duration: 2–3 Months
• Funding: €3,375 Monthly Stipend + Medical Insurance
• Eligible Applicants: Researchers with a PhD
• Nationality: All Nationalities
• Application Deadline: September 30

UNU-WIDER Visiting Scholars Program | Eligibility Criteria

Applicants interested in the UNU-WIDER Visiting Scholars Program should:

• Hold a PhD degree in economics or a development-related discipline.
• Have strong academic and research capabilities.
• Preferably have a good publication record.
• Propose research related to development and/or global economic issues.
• Preferably have research interests that overlap with UNU-WIDER’s current research program.

Applications from suitably qualified early-career researchers, women and researchers from developing countries are particularly encouraged.

UNU-WIDER also considers research proposals covering other aspects of development beyond its current research program.

Program Benefits

Successful Visiting Scholars receive:

• €3,375 monthly stipend.
• Medical insurance covering sickness and accidents during the stay at UNU-WIDER.
• Financial contribution towards travel, visa, accommodation and other expenses through the monthly stipend.
• Opportunity to spend 2–3 months in Helsinki, Finland.
• Opportunity to participate in UNU-WIDER research activities and seminars.
• Opportunity to have research considered for publication in the WIDER Working Paper Series.

Scholars facing high travel costs may also apply for a supplementary travel grant covering eligible costs above €1,200, subject to UNU-WIDER’s conditions.

The programme does not cover expenses related to dependants.

How to Apply

Applications for the UNU-WIDER Visiting Scholars Program are submitted online and are accepted once each year.

Interested applicants should:

1. Visit the official UNU-WIDER Visiting Scholars Programme page.
2. Access the online application form, which becomes available from September 1.
3. Complete the required personal, academic and research information.
4. Upload the required supporting document(s).
5. Submit the completed application before the deadline.

Applications submitted by email or post are not accepted.

Selected applicants are normally informed of the final decision by email within approximately two months after the application deadline.

Application Documents

Applicants should prepare the information and supporting documents requested through the online application system, including:

• 
  Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Academic and professional information.
• Research information/proposal as requested in the application.
• Other information required on the online application form.

Applicants should ensure that all information is complete before submitting the application.

Application Deadline: September 30, 2026 at 23:59 UTC+3.

Visit the Official Website for Further Details

CONCLUSION

The UNU-WIDER Visiting Scholars Program 2027 provides researchers with an opportunity to advance their work while engaging with an international community focused on development economics and global economic issues. The research experience in Helsinki, combined with participation in UNU-WIDER activities and the opportunity to develop a paper for possible publication, can add valuable academic exposure to a scholar’s career. Interested researchers should review the eligibility requirements, application details and programme expectations carefully before applying.