The Humboldt Research Fellowship, administered by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, offers a prestigious and highly competitive fellowship opportunity for postdoctoral and experienced researchers from around the world to conduct long-term research in Germany. This fellowship program allows scholars from all disciplines to collaborate with academic hosts at German universities and research institutions, thereby promoting international academic cooperation and knowledge exchange.
The foundation has supported over 30,000 researchers from more than 140 countries, many of whom have gone on to achieve international recognition in their respective fields, including Nobel Prize winners. The Humboldt Foundation is known not just for its funding but also for providing long-term support and connections that last well beyond the fellowship period.
Through this program, selected fellows receive not only financial support but also an opportunity to integrate into one of the most influential academic networks globally—the Humboldt Network. Fellows gain access to advanced research facilities, extensive professional development opportunities, and an elite scholarly community. This program supports both early-career researchers who recently completed their doctoral degrees and experienced researchers who have established academic reputations in their fields.
The fellowship encourages applications from outstanding researchers across a broad spectrum of academic disciplines, including the natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, and humanities. It is particularly attractive to researchers who value academic freedom, flexible research agendas, and the opportunity to explore interdisciplinary approaches with leading German institutions. Moreover, it reflects a commitment to diversity, encouraging applications from individuals of all genders, backgrounds, and nationalities.
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Requirement / Eligibility
The Humboldt Research Fellowship has two main streams: one for postdoctoral researchers and one for experienced researchers. The eligibility criteria differ slightly between the two categories:
1. For Postdoctoral Researchers:
– Must have completed a doctoral degree within the past four years.
– Should have a strong research track record with publications in peer-reviewed journals or by reputable academic publishers.
– Must not have spent more than six months in Germany in the 18 months prior to submitting the application.
– Must secure a host and research plan at a recognized German research institution.
– Requires two expert reviews, preferably one from the doctoral supervisor and another from a researcher not affiliated with the applicant’s home institution.
– Must demonstrate good proficiency in either English or German, depending on the research field.
2. For Experienced Researchers:
– Must have completed a doctoral degree within the last twelve years.
– Should have a significant number of independent publications in internationally recognized journals or publishers.
– Must not have spent more than six months in Germany in the past 18 months prior to application.
– A research host in Germany is required, along with a mentoring agreement and confirmation of research facilities.
– Requires two expert reviews from well-established academics, preferably one based outside the applicant’s country of origin.
– Must possess a high level of language proficiency—either in English or German, based on research field requirements.
General Notes
– All nationalities are eligible.
– Applicants must propose a research project that aligns with the expertise of the intended host institution.
– Strong preference is given to original, innovative, and impactful research projects.
Duration
The Humboldt Research Fellowship offers flexible research durations, allowing fellows to tailor the experience based on their project needs:
– Postdoctoral Researchers: Research stays 6 to 24 months.
– Experienced Researchers: Research stays o6 to 18 months, which may be divided into multiple stays.
Stipend and Financial Benefits
– Postdoctoral researchers receive 2,670 EUR per month.
– Experienced researchers receive 3,170 EUR per month.
– Additional Allowances:
– Travel expenses to and from Germany.
– Language courses (if applicable).
– Allowances for accompanying family members.
– Support for research costs at the host institution.
– Childcare allowances (if applicable).
– Extension options in special circumstances (e.g., parental leave).
In addition to the financial benefits, fellows gain lifetime membership in the Humboldt Network, a global community of scholars and scientists. This network offers continued funding opportunities, alumni programs, mentorship, and international conferences, fostering ongoing collaboration beyond the initial fellowship.
Deadline
The application deadline is not specified. The Selection Committee responsible for reviewing applications to this programme meets every March, July and November.
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