Young scientists from Lebanon and across the Middle East and North Africa are invited to apply for the Grants for Transformative and Collaborative Research in the MENA Region (GTCR-MENA), a new programme launched by the UNESCO‑TWAS with the support of the German Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space.
This initiative aims to strengthen research capacity, promote scientific excellence, and foster international collaboration, particularly with German research institutions.
Supporting Research Excellence in Priority Fields
The GTCR-MENA programme provides grants of up to USD 60,000 to support promising research projects led by Principal Investigators in eligible countries, including Lebanon.
The grants are designed to enhance research productivity by supporting:
- Purchase of scientific equipment
- Laboratory consumables
- Specialized scientific literature
- Partial fieldwork support (in exceptional cases)
- Support for MSc students
- Conference participation and collaboration mobility in Germany
- Open-access publication
Projects are typically funded for 24 months.
Research proposals must focus on key priority areas aligned with the High-Tech Agenda Germany, including:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Quantum Technologies
- Microelectronics
- Biotechnology
- Climate-neutral energy and mobility
- Aerospace
- Health Research
- Marine, Climate, and Sustainability Research
- Humanities and Social Sciences (including economics, political science, international relations, and human geography)
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be nationals of one of the eligible countries, including Lebanon
- Hold a PhD degree
- Be 40 years old or younger (women may qualify up to 46 years depending on maternity leave provisions)
- Hold, or secure, a position at an academic or research institution in their home country
- Have an active collaboration, or establish one, with a German research institution
- Submit a strong research proposal in one of the priority fields
Women scientists are especially encouraged to apply.
Additional Support for Women Scientists
The programme includes a special component to support female scientists returning to academia after maternity leave, helping them resume and strengthen their research careers.
Application Deadline
📅 Deadline: 16 April 2026 (11:59 PM CEST)
Applicants must submit their proposals through the official online application platform.
Strengthening Scientific Capacity in the MENA Region
The GTCR-MENA programme reflects a shared commitment to strengthening scientific research systems in the region, supporting early-career researchers, and fostering international collaboration.
By investing in research infrastructure and partnerships, the programme contributes to advancing innovation, sustainable development, and scientific excellence across the MENA region.
How to Apply
Researchers are encouraged to consult the full guidelines and submit their applications online.
📧 For enquiries: gtcr@twas.org