The Scientist Assistance Programme is implemented by IUFRO’s Special Programme for Development of Capacities (SPDC) and based on the following general policy guidelines:

• Support is directed to those scientists who are contributing to a particular IUFRO meeting in the form of a paper or poster presentation;
• Only scientists who are employed at an institution in an economically disadvantaged country and reside in an economically disadvantaged country are eligible for support;
• Preference is given to early- to mid-career forest scientists (below the age of 46 years) who are in need of further developing their expertise and skills as a researcher;
• Highest priority in providing sponsorship is given to IUFRO officeholders and forest scientists working in IUFRO member institutions, though scientists working in other forest-related research institutions which are not IUFRO member institutions will also be supported depending on funding available;
• In order to spread support as widely as possible among the forest science community, sponsorship will not be provided to the same scientist in two consecutive years;
• The selection of candidates will also be geared to achieve both geographical and gender balance.

While applications from those who have received SAP support for past congresses are welcome, preference will be given to those who have not received funding previously.

Scientists with an approved abstract may submit their applications through a SAP application form (coming soon).

Two types of sponsorship are available:

• Full sponsorship covering airfare, accommodation, subsistence and Congress registration fee; or
• Partial sponsorship covering airfare only.

Deadline: to be announced