The Erasmus initiative EL-BONGÓ Physics (E-Latin America Digital huB for OpeN Growing cOmmunities in physics) announces its call for applications from university students across Latin America who wish to join the first training cohort in Advanced Physics. This program is linked to ten master’s programs in seven countries of the region. The pedagogical experience will begin in February 2026 and will span two semesters.
The call includes an application period through a form that is already available. Interested participants may apply from December 3rd to January 20th, 2026. From January 21st to January 28th, candidates will have access to the “Zero Course,” which compiles introductory materials about the training plan and working dynamics. The acceptance period for eligible candidates will take place from January 26th to January 29th. The training plan for the first cohort will begin during the first week of February.
EL-BONGÓ Physics adopts a research-focused teaching approach within a consortium of eleven postgraduate programs in Physics and Computing based in Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Venezuela, Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador. The pedagogical model proposes a modular training strategy of short shared courses on data science and scientific instrumentation, complemented by specialized learning paths in four disciplinary areas: High-Energy Physics; Astroparticles and Multimessenger Physics; Geophysics; Artificial Intelligence and High-Performance Computing. Details of the training available in each community can be found here.
The EL-BONGÓ Physics learning environment emphasizes digital learning methods with flexible curricula housed within creative ecosystems. The training experience includes network-based activities such as workshops, seminars, mentoring sessions, and internships, all within a multicultural academic context.
Applicants must seek affiliation with one of the master’s programs involved in EL-BONGÓ Physics. Since each program follows its own timeline and admission requirements, students should contact the nearest participating university for specific details. Advanced undergraduate students may also participate, pending evaluation of their research trajectory. The program will offer funding opportunities for international internships for students enrolled in associated master’s programs who complete the full training plan.
Flexible participation options will be available for students wishing to take only a portion of the courses or participate from outside the core program. In such cases, participation must be requested through one of the associated master’s programs.
EL-BONGÓ Physics is funded by the Erasmus+ CBHE program. This training initiative builds upon the LA CoNGA Physics project, also funded by Europe, which continued through the end of 2023.