Practical Information for Visiting Scholars
We encourage scholars from abroad to engage with our faculty and students, and with the Pittsburgh community. Because we receive a large number of requests from potential visiting scholars, we are unable to accept all opportunities. While the ESC often facilitates visits of scholars from Europe or working on topics related to Europe, the decision process is often decentralized to a departmental level (or other relevant units). Nevertheless, there are some common elements of consideration:
- The prospective visitor’s educational and experiential background, scholarly achievements, area of academic interest, and English language skills (a minimum level of competency is required for some visas)
- The specific research proposal
- Institutional affiliations (possibilities for longer-term collaboration)
- Most importantly, the availability and interest of a Pitt faculty member to supervise or collaborate in the proposed research project or otherwise mentor the prospective visitor
Applying to be a Visiting Scholar at Pitt
We recommend that you contact prospective Pitt faculty hosts or departments directly with your request. Here are some helpful components of a formal request:
- A résumé or curriculum vitae
- A description of the proposed research, including a statement explaining why Pitt is an appropriate setting for the work
- The name of the Pitt faculty member or members whom the prospective visitor proposes to serve as his or her mentor
- A letter of recommendation from an academic colleague
- The proposed length and dates of the visit
- If the prospective visitor is interested in observing a particular course, a statement indicating the course and the reasons for the interest
If the prospective visitor’s native language is not English, a description of relevant experience and training in English and the degree of their proficiency with the English language. Proficiency expectations may vary by discipline and research project, and is ultimately decided by the host department or faculty member.
Prospective visitors may research our academic offerings and faculty interests, and reach out directly to faculty with shared interests and expertise to discuss their proposal and to explore the possibility of being hosted at Pitt. If there is mutual interest, then the Pitt faculty host/mentor will reach out to the European Studies Center (when relevant) and our Office of International Services (OIS) for next steps.
Applying for a Fulbright or other financial support
Most visitors are supported by funding sources in their home countries or through sabbatical leave salaries from their home institutions. In general, no financial aid, stipends, or housing are available for visiting scholars.
We are not involved in the review of Visiting Scholar applications for Fulbright or other grants. For information about programs, how to apply and deadlines, please contact the granting agency directly. For Fulbright, contact your country’s Fulbright commission or the public affairs section of the US embassy. If you are seeking a letter of invitation from the University of Pittsburgh, please contact Erica Edwards, Associate Director, to discuss your needs.