The Climate change and environment initiatives from TWAS (The World Academy of Sciences) support scientists and researchers from developing countries in addressing climate change, preserving the environment, and promoting sustainable development. Sustainable development has always been at the heart of TWAS’s mission. The Academy recognises that climate change threatens to reverse decades of progress on poverty reduction and jeopardises the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Societies in the Global South need support to develop in maximally sustainable ways and to adopt strategies for mitigation and adaptation. In 2022, TWAS launched two dedicated programmes: the TWAS-Elsevier Foundation Project Grants for Gender Equity and Climate Action and the TWAS-Sida PhD Scholarships for Climate Research for Students from Least Developed Countries (LDCs). An open call is currently available through the TWAS-Samira Omar Innovation for Sustainability Award.

Open Call: TWAS-Samira Omar Innovation for Sustainability Award

This annual award, named after TWAS Fellow Samira Omar, recognises significant impact on the environment and biodiversity of scientists from least developed countries. The award includes a monetary prize of US$4,000, generously provided by Professor Omar.

• Deadline: 30 June 2026
• Eligibility: Scientists from least developed countries who have made a notable contribution to environmental and biodiversity sustainability.
• More information: SEE MORE

Past Opportunities

TWAS-Elsevier Foundation Project Grants for Gender Equity and Climate Action
Grants were awarded to teams of 2–5 women for action-based projects that promote practical and tangible change under the umbrella of climate action (SDG 13). The principal applicant was a woman scientist holding a PhD, living and working in a science and technology lagging country (STLC). Co-applicants could be scientists or technical experts from any developing country. This call is now closed.

TWAS-Sida PhD Scholarships for Climate Research for Students from Least Developed Countries (LDCs)
PhD scholarships were awarded to promising candidates from LDCs. Applicants needed to hold an MSc in an area relevant to climate change (a broad, interdisciplinary field) by December 2022. The programme has been discontinued.

Eligibility and Focus

TWAS’s climate change and environment initiatives target scientists and institutions in developing countries, with a strong emphasis on least developed countries (LDCs) and on women, who are often disproportionately affected by climate change. The programmes aim to support higher education in climate studies, strengthen interdisciplinary training, and produce tangible results. Reconnecting with nature, protecting the environment, establishing sustainable consumption and production models, and conserving indigenous knowledge are key priorities.

Contact Information

The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS)
ICTP Campus, Strada Costiera 11, 34151 Trieste, Italy
Email: info@twas.org
Website: twas.org/opportunity/climate-change-and-environment