The VL Program is designed for mathematicians with a PhD (for at least 4 years before applying to become a lecturer in this program) who teach in mathematics departments or have a regular governmental or industrial position related to mathematics teaching and research and who are interested to lecture for intensive 3-4 week courses at universities in the developing world, at the advanced undergraduate or master level in topics, the capacity for which is lacking at many universities in developing countries.

 

Requirements

Lecturers have to hold a PhD in the mathematical sciences and be employed in a university as a lecturer in the mathematical sciences (or governmental or industrial positions with a focus on the mathematical sciences) to be eligible to participate in the program. The lecturer should have finished his/ her PhD at least 4 (four) years before he/ she applies as a lecturer. 

Our volunteers should be professional mathematicians with regular positions (lecturers/professors) in universities (teaching in mathematics or related departments/faculties) to which they will return after their VLP course has finished.

Past experience in the developing world is desirable but not necessary. However what is required is tolerance for working in circumstances of modest resources, unexplained inefficiencies, and limited physical comforts.

The lecturer will be assisted by a local mathematics professor who prepares the students beforehand, assists when necessary during the course, and takes care of any necessary follow-up. These courses should have a student audience of 15-20 or more, be controlled with examinations, and be part of a regular degree program at the university at which they are offered.

 

Funding

Funds for all living expenses, including travel, visa, health insurance, necessary vaccination, accommodation and living costs (up to 4400 EURO), will be provided by IMU/ CDC or its partner organizations.

However, CDC requests that the mathematician's home institution offers leave with pay (continue to pay the salary during his/her 3-4 week absence). No honorarium/ salary is paid for the VLP.

We believe that a strong case can be made that cooperation with this program will not only bring personal and professional benefit to the lecturer, but will also redound to the credit of the lecturer's home institution.

However no salary is paid to the lecturer. No assistant can be paid either.

Health Insurance

The CDC requests that the volunteer, prior to departure, obtains an international health insurance which covers all costs for necessary medical treatment abroad and repatriation in the event of illness or an accident. Volunteer lecturers should arrange for any additional health insurance, including medical evacuation insurance, prudent during their VLP assignment. Costs of such insurance can be charged as part of the VLP grant support provided by IMU.  

 

Liability

IMU/ CDC works with the host institutions to insure a secure and productive stay in the country of the host institution from the moment of arrival to the moment of departure. Although IMU/CDC makes every effort to insure only placements in relatively safe, secure and healthy environments, neither the International Mathematical Union or its Commission for Developing Countries can assume liability for the health and safety of its lecturers.

We advise all volunteer lecturers to check with their Ministry of Foreign Affairs/ State Department prior to their departure regarding safety, health issues (including immunization) and health insurance. This source also provides helpful guidance and general comments on travel to the country and region hosting the volunteer lecturer.

Only host institutions can apply for a Grant. For more information go to Host Institution - How to apply for a Course Grant.