06/07/2026
STEM for Development has received funding to test a pilot connecting selected early-career researchers from low- and middle-income countries with real R&D projects at U.S. companies. We are looking for a few company R&D partners who may be open to an exploratory conversation.
SFD works with talented researchers from around the world – many with strong academic preparation, real technical promise, and the drive to contribute to world-class science. The barrier is often access: to advanced research environments, professional networks, and career-shaping opportunities that are much easier to reach from wealthier countries.
For this pilot, we want to test a more curated model than a large internship pipeline. SFD’s strongest contribution is scientific judgment, candidate preparation, and close matching between a real R&D need and a researcher we know well. We would identify and prepare strong candidates from our community, then work closely with host teams to make sure the research fit is real.
A good partner would have:
– A defined R&D need
– Capacity to supervise an early-career researcher well
– Interest in global STEM workforce development
– Work in areas such as life sciences, biotech, bioinformatics, data science, energy, engineering, materials, or computational research
Right now, the most helpful thing would be introductions to R&D leaders who might be willing to speak with us. If someone comes to mind – or if you know people who may be connected to company R&D teams – we would be grateful if you sent us a note or shared this!
