The UNU WIDER Visiting Scholars Program 2025 offers a unique chance for qualified researchers to spend 2 to 3 months at the United Nations University World Institute for Development Economics Research (UNU-WIDER) in Helsinki, Finland. This fully funded scholarship program supports research on development and global economic issues, providing an enriching experience for scholars passionate about economic development and policy research.
Basic Information About the Programs:
- Host Country: Finland
- Location: Helsinki
- Duration: 2 to 3 Months
- Application Deadline: 30th September 2025 (23:59 UTC+3)
- Funding Type: Fully Funded
- Program Focus: Research related to development economics, global economic issues, and participation in UNU-WIDER activities
- Application Fee: None
The program is designed for research collaboration and development of papers in UNU-WIDER’s Working Paper series with a chance to present research seminars.
University/Institution Details
UNU-WIDER is a globally renowned research institute affiliated with the United Nations University. It specializes in research on economic development issues, with a strong focus on policy-relevant topics to advance global welfare. Located in Helsinki, Finland, UNU-WIDER offers a stimulating multicultural environment and world-class research resources.
Study Areas Available
The Visiting Scholars Program welcomes proposals on various development and economic topics. While the core focus is on economics and development-related disciplines, researchers working on issues such as:
- Development Economics
- Global Economic Policy
- Poverty Reduction
- Inequality
- Tax Research for Development
- Peacebuilding and Institutional Trust
The program also supports interdisciplinary research linked to development policies.
UNU WIDER Visiting Scholars Program Benefits
The UNU WIDER Visiting Scholars Program offers extensive financial and academic support including:
- Monthly Stipend: EUR 3,330 (approx. USD 3,600) to cover living expenses during the visit
- Medical Insurance: Coverage for sickness and accident during the stay
- Travel Grant: Covers round-trip airfare; supplementary grants for travel costs exceeding EUR 1200 may be awarded
- Visa and Accommodation: Supported through the monthly stipend
- Research Support: Access to UNU-WIDER facilities, mentorship from experienced researchers, and the opportunity to present research seminars
- No Application Fee.
Benefits Not Included
- Expenses related to dependents or family members are not covered
- Personal expenses outside the scope of research and living costs
- Any travel or stay costs beyond the scholar’s participation and research duration
Eligibility Criteria for UNU WIDER Visiting Scholars Program
Candidates must meet the following qualifications:
- Hold a PhD in economics or a closely related development-focused discipline
- Demonstrate a strong academic record and preferably a good publication history
- Researchers from developing countries, early-career scholars, and female candidates are strongly encouraged
- Proposals should align with UNU-WIDER’s research themes, but all topics related to development economics are considered
- Fluency in English, both written and oral, is required.
Selection Criteria
- PhD in economics or a development-related discipline.
- Good publication record (advantage).
- Early-career, female, and developing country researchers encouraged.
- Preference for research overlapping UNU-WIDER’s programme (but open to all development topics).
Required Documents for the Application
Applicants need to prepare and submit:
- An online application form (active from 1 September to 30 September 2025)
- A detailed curriculum vitae (CV)
- A research proposal aligned with UNU-WIDER’s research focus
- Publications list or evidence of research output (if applicable)
- Contact information for references may be requested
- For technical difficulties, CV submission via email (scholars1@wider.unu.edu) is allowed.
UNU WIDER Visiting Scholars Program Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
- Online applications only (once per year).
- Application deadline: 30 September, 23:59 UTC+3.
- Application form active from 1 September.
- Upload CV (if upload fails, email to: scholars1@wider.unu.edu).
- Decisions communicated within 8 weeks of deadline.
- Selected applicants must confirm within 2 weeks.
- Applications by email/post not accepted.
- For queries or technical issues: scholars1@wider.unu.edu
Tips for a Successful Application
- Ensure your research proposal aligns with UNU-WIDER’s focus on development economics
- Highlight any prior research or publications related to global economic issues
- Tailor your CV to emphasize relevant academic achievements and skills
- Clearly demonstrate how your research contributes to development policy or practice
- Apply early within the submission window to avoid technical issues
- Seek feedback on your proposal from mentors or peers before submission.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students (In USD)
Living in Helsinki can be relatively affordable for a Nordic capital. The stipend covers:
- Accommodation: $800 – $1,200
- Food and Groceries: $300 – $400
- Transportation: $50 – $100
- Miscellaneous (phone, internet, entertainment): $100 – $200
Estimated total monthly expenses: $1,300 to $1,900. Given the stipend of approximately $3,600 monthly, scholars can comfortably manage their expenses and research-related costs.
Why Choose This Scholarship? Top 5 Reasons
- Fully Funded Opportunity: Covers airfare, living expenses, medical insurance, and visa costs
- Prestigious Institution: Research at UNU-WIDER, a respected UN research institute focused on development economics
- Research Collaboration: Engage with leading economists and gain mentorship to bolster your academic career
- Access to Exclusive Resources: Utilize UNU-WIDER’s databases, seminars, and workshops to enrich your scholarly work
- Global Networking: Connect with an international community of researchers and policymakers influencing global development.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Who can apply for the UNU WIDER Visiting Scholars Program?
A1: Researchers with a PhD in economics or development-related fields, including early-career and female researchers, especially from developing countries.
Q2: What expenses are covered by the scholarship?
A2: Airfare, living costs via monthly stipend, medical insurance, visa, and accommodation contributions.
Q3: What is the duration of the scholarship?
A3: The program lasts 2 to 3 months, typically in Helsinki, Finland.
Q4: Is there an application fee?
A4: No, the application process is free of charge.
Q5: When is the application deadline?
A5: The deadline is 30 September 2025 (23:59 UTC+3).
Q6: Can I apply if I am still a PhD student?
A6: The Visiting Scholars Program is for post-PhD researchers. However, there is a separate Visiting PhD Fellowship for doctoral students.
Q7: How to apply if the online system has technical issues for CV upload?
A7: You may send your CV to scholars1@wider.unu.edu via email if you experience upload problems.
Q8: Can I bring dependents with me during the visit?
A8: No, expenses or services for dependents are not covered by the program.