VISITING SCIENTIST PROGRAM (VSP)
The Visiting Scientist Program allows Air Force scientists and engineers to conduct research at U.S. non-government labs, building collaboration and expertise for up to 179 days.
Funder: Air Force Office of Scientific Research
Due Dates: Ongoing (applications accepted year-round)
Funding Amounts: Up to 179 days of full-time research; AFOSR covers all temporary duty travel costs; participant’s home organization covers salary and other expenses.
Summary: Enables Air Force scientists and engineers to conduct full-time research at U.S. non-government labs, fostering collaboration and professional growth.
Key Information: Only Air Force scientists and engineers are eligible; not open to external applicants.
Description
The Visiting Scientist Program (VSP) provides opportunities for outstanding Air Force scientists and engineers (AF S&Es) to conduct full-time research at non-government laboratories located within the United States for up to 179 days. The program is designed to:
- Foster side-by-side research with leading researchers at host institutions.
- Enable the transfer of new skills and knowledge back to the participant’s home organization.
- Deepen collaborations and professional relationships between Air Force personnel and the broader U.S. scientific community.
- Broaden the experience and awareness of Air Force researchers within the domestic science and technology landscape.
AFOSR pays all temporary duty (TDY) travel costs, while the participant's home organization continues to pay salary and other expenses. After the research period, participants return to their home organizations.
