Visiting Researcher Programme

The Visiting Researcher Programme at the Institute of International Relations and Political Science at Vilnius University (IIRPS VU) offers opportunities to visit Vilnius and develop collaborative research, prepare joint publications and funding applications, and build long-term academic partnerships. We welcome interdisciplinary perspectives and innovative research topics relevant to the Institute’s academic profile. Visiting researchers will be supported by an active research environment and dedicated administrative assistance that can help develop and strategize future initiatives, especially for young scholars seeking to apply for external funding schemes.

• Duration: 2 weeks to 1 month (14-31 days).
• Funding: IIRPS VU covers economy-class travel to and from Vilnius as well as university-managed accommodation for the approved visit period. Daily allowances, per diem payments, meals, local transport, visa fees, insurance, and other personal expenses are not covered.
• Research support: Workspace, library access, and participation in academic community activities.
• Ideal for: Young researchers interested in collaborative research, project development, or future external funding applications.
• Possible activities: Development of collaborative research proposals and applications, joint preparation of research publications with IIRPS VU researchers, data collection and fieldwork in Lithuania, consultations on future funding opportunities with the IIRPS VU Science and Research Department as well as academic presentations, seminars, workshops, or public engagement activities delivered by the visiting scholar.
• Expected outcome: Visiting scholar is expected to engage in at least one of the above-mentioned activities.

The programme is open to international researchers whose academic interests align with the research profile of IIRPS VU. Applications are especially encouraged from but not limited to the following groups:

• Advanced PhD candidates
• Postdoctoral researchers
• Scholars interested in developing long-term international collaboration or applying for externally funded research projects

The programme prioritises potential applicants willing to apply for the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Postdoctoral Fellowships with the IIRPS VU.

• Visits are organised throughout the year, subject to available funding and hosting researcher availability.

• Applicants are encouraged to contact potential hosting researchers in advance. Profiles of IIRPS VU researchers can be found here.

• Travel and accommodation are arranged directly by the IIRPS VU upon approval of the visit.

Step 1. Identify a Hosting Researcher

Applicants should first identify and contact a potential Hosting Researcher among the IIRPS VU researchers and agree on the proposed visit, possible activities, and expected outcomes.

Step 2. Prepare application documents

Please prepare the following materials in English:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Cover letter, including a short visit plan (up to 500 words) that outlines:
  • proposed visit dates
  • planned activities
  • expected outcomes
  • the Hosting Researcher 

 
Step 3. Submit your application

Please send all application materials to: Deputy Director for Science and Research Dr Vilius Mačkinis (vilius.mackinis@tspmi.vu.lt), copying-in your Hosting Researcher. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, subject to available funding. Applicants must submit materials at least eight weeks before the proposed visit. Decisions are made in consultation with the proposed Hosting Researcher and the Science and Research Department.

For questions regarding the Visiting Researcher Programme, please contact:

Deputy Director for Science and Research

Dr Vilius Mačkinis

vilius.mackinis@tspmi.vu.lt