Researchers and imaging professionals in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs now have a major opportunity to advance their scientific work and professional skills through the Imaging for All (i4A) programme, coordinated by Global Bioimaging (GBI) and funded by the Wellcome Trust (UK). The 3rd Open Call for applications is officially open from 15 December 2025 to 28 February 2026, offering funded access to world-class imaging infrastructures and training opportunities across the globe.
The i4A programme was created to address a long-standing challenge faced by many LMIC researchers: limited access to advanced biological and biomedical imaging technologies, expertise, and professional development pathways. Through targeted funding, i4A enables researchers, imaging facility scientists, and managers to collaborate internationally, gain hands-on experience, and strengthen imaging capacity within their home institutions.
Why This Opportunity Matters
Have you ever wished you could visualize a biological sample using an advanced imaging technique that is not available in your institution? Are you exploring a new imaging modality but unsure how to integrate it into your research? Do you want expert guidance on assay development, image analysis, microscope operation, or facility management?
The i4A programme is designed precisely for such needs. It supports:
Experimental imaging work using advanced instruments
- Hands-on skills training in imaging technologies
- Image data analysis and management
- Imaging facility leadership and management training
- Knowledge transfer for researchers planning to establish or expand imaging services in their institutions
If you are an LMIC-based researcher or imaging facility professional seeking to grow scientifically and professionally, i4A provides a practical, well-funded pathway to do so.
Who Can Apply?
Applications are open to:
- Researchers
- Imaging facility staff
- Imaging facility managers
Applicants must be affiliated with a not-for-profit institution (such as a university or research institute) located in a low- or middle-income country, as classified internationally. Individual applicants—not institutions—are considered the grant recipients.
Hosting institutions can be located anywhere in the world, except the applicant’s own institution, to ensure meaningful international knowledge exchange.
Funding and Grant Types
The i4A programme offers three main grant categories, each designed to address specific imaging access and training needs.
1. i4A Access Grant
This grant supports short-term visits to imaging facilities worldwide.
Two tracks are available:
Access Research Track: For conducting experimental imaging work.
Access Skills Track: For acquiring hands-on imaging skills through personalized training.
2. i4A Pro Grant
Designed for applicants with substantial imaging experience, including imaging facility professionals.
Two tracks are available:
Pro Research Track: For applying advanced imaging technologies to complex research questions.
Pro Skills Track: For developing advanced imaging, teaching, and facility management skills.
Access is provided to GBI partner facilities, which are independently evaluated for open-access excellence.
3. i4A Training Grant
Supports participation in national or international in-person workshops or courses focused on:
- Imaging technologies
- Image data analysis
- Image data management
- Imaging facility management
This grant is ideal for structured learning environments that directly enhance research or professional capacity.
Key Dates and Timeline
Call Opens: 15 December 2025
Application Deadline: 28 February 2026
All funded visits must conclude by: End of October 2026
Applicants who require visas are strongly encouraged to consider embassy processing timelines when selecting host countries or training courses.
Financial and Practical Support
To reduce financial barriers commonly faced by LMIC researchers, i4A goes beyond traditional reimbursement models. Whenever possible, the programme:
- Covers facility and training fees directly
- Assists with flight and accommodation bookings
- Offers pre-funded travel arrangements
- Provides official documentation to support visa applications
This approach ensures that financial constraints do not prevent deserving applicants from benefiting.
Selection Process and Number of Awards
Under the 3rd Open Call, i4A aims to award approximately:
- 20 Access Grants
- 10 Pro Grants
- 20 Training Grants
Selections are made through a transparent, point-based evaluation system, with careful attention to:
- Scientific merit
- Feasibility
- Capacity building potential
- Gender balance
- Geographic diversity across LMICs
Each track is evaluated independently, and personal data is handled with strict confidentiality.
Reapplication and Funding Extensions
Applicants who were not successful in previous rounds are encouraged to reapply with stronger, updated proposals. Training Grant awardees may later apply for Access or Pro Grants to build on newly acquired skills. In limited cases, Access and Pro Grant holders may also request funding extensions for continued work at the same host facility.
How to Apply and Get Support
Applicants are encouraged to seek pre-application guidance by emailing a short project or training description to i4a_support@embl.de. This support can help with:
- Choosing the right grant track
- Identifying suitable host institutions
- Selecting appropriate imaging modalities or training courses
– For Pro Grant applicants, pre-confirmation with the i4A team is mandatory before submitting an application.
– A live Q&A session for applicants and hosts will be held on 14 January 2026, offering further clarification and support.
Visit HERE for more information….
About i4A and Global Bioimaging
The Imaging for All (i4A) programme is funded by the Wellcome Trust and coordinated by Global Bioimaging, a global network dedicated to advancing imaging science through collaboration, training, and equitable access. By reducing financial and structural barriers, i4A strengthens global research capacity and promotes inclusive scientific excellence.
For LMIC researchers ready to elevate their imaging work and professional growth, the i4A 3rd Open Call represents a timely and transformative opportunity.
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