The Visiting Scholars Programme brings PhD-qualified researchers to UNU-WIDER in Helsinki for development or global economic research. Scholars usually spend two to three months preparing one or more papers for possible consideration in the WIDER Working Paper Series and presenting a research seminar.
The programme runs once a year. UNU-WIDER accepts proposals across development research, while preferring work that overlaps with its current programme.
Benefits & funding
- A monthly stipend of EUR 3,375 contributes toward travel, visa, accommodation, and other out-of-pocket costs.
- UNU-WIDER provides medical insurance for sickness and accident during the stay.
- A supplementary grant may cover the portion of eligible high travel costs above EUR 1,200, based on the lowest economy fare, when the scholar buys the ticket and receives no other travel grant.
- The programme does not provide services or cover expenses for dependants.
Eligibility
- Applicants should hold a PhD in economics or a development-related discipline.
- Proposed research must concern development or global economic issues; overlap with UNU-WIDER’s current programme is preferred, but proposals across development research remain eligible.
- A strong publication record is an advantage, while applications from qualified early-career, female, and developing-country researchers are encouraged rather than required.
- The programme page states no nationality, residency, age, or work-experience restriction.
Can you apply?
Here's who can apply
Decoded from the official rules. A free account checks them against your passport, degree and age in seconds.
Education required
PhD
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Application process
- 1Complete the online application form during the annual application window, which opens on 1 September.
- 2Upload a curriculum vitae through the form.
- 3Submit online by 30 September 2026 at 23:59 UTC+3; applications by email or post are not accepted.
- 4Selected applicants are notified by email approximately within two months after the deadline and must accept within two weeks of being contacted.
Program timeline
Online application form opens.
Sep 1, 2026
Application deadline.
Sep 30, 2026 at 23:59 UTC+3
Approximately within two months after the deadline
Final decisions sent by email.
Within two weeks after contact
Selected applicants must confirm acceptance.