Engineer and Scientist Exchange Program (ESEP)
The Engineer and Scientist Exchange Program (ESEP) promotes international collaboration by exchanging defense scientists and engineers between the US and allied nations for research and development.
Funder: Air Force Office of Scientific Research
Due Dates (Anticipated): February 2027 (annual cycle, typically third Wednesday in February)
Funding Amounts: US Air Force personnel: 2-year international assignments; foreign scientists: 12-month US placements; program covers assignment and travel costs.
Summary: Facilitates international exchange of defense scientists and engineers between the US and allied nations for collaborative R&D and professional development.
Key Information: Participation requires a formal international agreement (MOU) between the US and the partner country.
Description
The Engineer and Scientist Exchange Program (ESEP) is a Department of Defense initiative, managed by the Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR), that promotes international collaboration in military research, development, and acquisition. ESEP enables US military and civilian engineers and scientists to undertake working assignments within foreign government organizations, while also hosting foreign counterparts within US defense establishments. These exchanges are governed by Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) between the US and participating allied or friendly nations.
The program aims to:
- Broaden participants' perspectives on research and development techniques and methods.
- Develop a cadre of internationally experienced professionals within the US Air Force and allied nations.
- Provide insight into foreign R&D expertise, methods, and organizational practices.
- Encourage future international scientific cooperation and avoid duplication of research efforts.
Assignments for US personnel typically last two years (with possible language training), while foreign scientists are usually placed within US organizations for 12 months.
