German Funding Programmes for Scientists and Researchers
Funding Opportunities for International PhD Students, Postdocs, Junior and Senior Researchers Find us online! www.research-in-germany.de facebook.com/research.in.germany twitter.com/ResearchGermany
2 Editorial
Welcome to the Land of Ideas! Thank you for your interest in a study or research stay in Germany. This brochure is intended to help you find the appropriate funding for your stay in Germany.
Germany places great emphasis on globally networked research cooper- ation. Today over 33,000 international researchers – including roughly 2,600 professors – work at German institutions of higher education. Among this total, over 30,000 postgraduates, postdoctoral scholars, re- searchers and academics are being supported with scholarships from foundations, funding organisations and research institutions. Germany offers them multifaceted opportunities to work in inspiring surround- ings with highly qualified colleagues – in well-equipped university insti- tutes, renowned non-university research institutions and strong re- search-driven companies.
German higher education institutions are among the best in the world. There are more than 390 higher education institutions at over 170 lo- cations with outstandingly equipped research centres and excellently trained staff. Hundreds of non-university research institutions also offer ideal working conditions that are rarely matched anywhere in the world.
German industry is strongly engaged in research and development (R&D). Two thirds of the roughly 75 billion euros that are invested in this field come from companies (see page 12). In 2011 almost 2.9% of Germany’s gross domestic product was spent on R&D – a record figure. Federal Government support makes a major contribution to this. The Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) sees the most urgent tasks in the fields of health/nutrition, energy/climate protection, security, mobility and communication. The BMBF supports forward- looking projects in these fields with its High-Tech Strategy 2020 (HTS).
Germany shows special commitment towards solving global chal- lenges – including climate change and a sustainable energy supply. However, advances in these areas would be impossible without inter- national cooperation. Therefore, the BMBF also supports the develop- ment of international contacts and networks involving German higher education institutions, research facilities and businesses. We would highly appreciate your involvement in such cooperation.
3 About this Brochure German Funding Programmes for Scientists and Researchers presents a selection of the funding opportunities offered by German research funding organisations and research performing organisations as well as a number of European scholarship programmes. The brochure is specifically aimed at international researchers: PhD students, scholars who have a degree or comparable qualification that entitles the holder to study for a doctorate; postdocs/junior researchers, who we see as scholars who have already completed a doctorate or young researchers with a qualification equivalent to a doctorate; and senior researchers – in other words, established scholars who have a doctorate or a qualifi- cation equivalent to a doctorate and several years of (research) experi- ence (see below right).
In addition to the scholarships and awards outlined here there are a large number of private initiatives – for example, in industry – that support international PhD students and (junior) researchers (see page 12). Unfortunately, these usually specialised funding opportu- nities do not fall within the scope of this brochure. This is why you should also look into other opportunities to obtain support for your research work in Germany – for example, via the recommended links to the relevant databases.
For more information about the programmes described here, we recommend you contact the respective funding organisation. If you would like to learn more about Germany’s research opportunities and funding system, we invite you to visit the Research in Germany website at www.research-in-germany.de. Under the Jobs & Careers heading you will find a list of employment websites with details of current vacancies at universities, colleges and research institutes. Additionally you can find information on career opportunities for PhD students, postdocs/junior researchers, professors and academic staff. Our web catalogue offers more than 300 annotated links to interesting R&D-related websites and key research areas. We wish you success in conducting your research in Germany.
4 ContEnts
Editorial ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 3
About this Brochure ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 4
German Research Funding Organisations •••••••••••••• 6
German Research Performing Organisations •••••••••• 8
Research and Development in Germany •••••••••••••••• 10
European Resarch Funding •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 12 German Funding Programmes for Scientists and Researchers •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 14 All Funding Programmes
Listed by Organisation • ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 62
Useful Links •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 64
About ”Research in Germany“/ Imprint •••••••••••••••••• 66
Phd studEnts Students who have a degree or a compara- ble qualification that entitles them to pursue doctoral study and who are working on a doctorate. Pages 16–29
PostdoCs/Junior rEsEarChErs Young researchers who hold a doctorate or a qualification that is equivalent to a doctorate. Pages 23–48
sEnior rEsEarChErs Researchers who hold a doctorate or a qualification that is equivalent to a doctorate and have (several years of) relevant (research) experience. Pages 28–29, 41–60
Professional requirements can vary from one programme to another; please consult the respective programme for the precise requirements.
5 German Research Funding Organisations
Alexander von Humboldt Foundation The Alexander von Humboldt Foundation promotes academic coopera- tion between excellent scientists and scholars from Germany and abroad. Every year the foundation grants more than 700 research fellowships and awards. These allow scientists and scholars from all over the world to come to Germany to work on a research project they have chosen them- selves together with a host and collaborative partner. The alumni network is the foundation’s greatest asset, comprised of over 26,000 Humbold- tians in more than 130 countries – including 49 Nobel laureates.
Alexander von Humboldt Foundation Jean-Paul-Str. 12, 53173 Bonn, Germany [email protected], www.humboldt-foundation.de
German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is the largest funding organisation in the world supporting the international exchange of students and researchers. It is a registered association whose members are German institutions of higher education and student bodies. Its pri- mary objectives include encouraging outstanding young scholars from abroad to study or conduct research in Germany and enabling young Ger- man researchers to gain professional qualifications at the best insti- tutions around the globe. The DAAD achieves these goals with over 250 programmes which are largely funded by the Federal Government.
German Academic Exchange Service Kennedyallee 50, 53175 Bonn, Germany [email protected], www.daad.de
6 German Research Foundation (DFG) The DFG is the central self-governing research funding organisation in Germany. It serves all branches of science and the humanities by funding research projects at universities and other research institu- tions. It is an association under private law whose members are German research universities, non-university research institutions, scientific associations and the Academies of Science and the Humanities. The DFG is largely funded by the Länder and the Federal Government, which are represented in all Grants Committees. The voting system and procedural regulations guarantee science-driven decisions.
Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft Kennedyallee 40, 53175 Bonn, Germany [email protected], www.dfg.de
International Bureau (IB) The International Bureau is commissioned by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) to strengthen the international ties between German universities, research institutes and enterprises. To this end, the IB offers various programmes designed to finance and promote new international contacts and collaboration.
International Bureau, Dr. Jörn Sonnenburg Heinrich-Konen-Str. 1, 53227 Bonn, Germany [email protected], www.internationales-buero.de
7 German Research Performing Organisations
Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft With an annual research budget of 1.9 billion euros and more than 22,000 employees, the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft is one of the world’s leading organisations for applied research. Fraunhofer’s R&D portfolio covers a wide range of fields, including health, security, communications, transport, energy and the environment.
Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, Dr. Raoul Klingner Hansastr. 27c, 80686 Munich, Germany [email protected], www.fraunhofer.de
Helmholtz Association The Helmholtz Association contributes to solving major challenges facing society, science and industry with top scientific achievements in six research areas: energy, earth and environment, health, key tech- nologies, structure of matter and aeronautics, space and transport. With more than 34,000 employees in 18 research centres and an annual budget of approximately 3.4 billion euros, the Helmholtz Association is Germany’s largest scientific organisation. Its work follows the tradition of the great natural scientist Hermann von Helmholtz (1821–1894).
Helmholtz Association, Nina Löchte/Dr. Caroline Krüger Anna-Louisa-Karsch-Str. 2, 10178 Berlin, Germany [email protected], www.helmholtz.de
8 Leibniz Association The Leibniz Association is an umbrella organisation of 86 research institutes. The annual budget amounts to 1.4 billion euros. Some 7,700 researchers – more than 1,100 of them from abroad – work on a widely diverse range of subjects, including the humanities and social sciences, economics, spatial and life sciences, mathematics, natural and engin- eering sciences and environmental research.
Leibniz Association, Dr. Almuth Wietholtz-Eisert Chausseestr. 111, 10115 Berlin, Germany [email protected] www.leibniz-association.eu
Max Planck Society (MPG) The Max Planck Society for the Advancement of Science is one of Germany’s largest, independent, non-profit research organisations. A combined total of more than 10,000 researchers, postdocs/junior researchers and visiting researchers at 80 Max Planck Institutes con- duct basic research in the natural sciences, life sciences, social sci- ences and humanities. One third of the researchers and more than half of the junior and visiting researchers come from abroad.
Max Planck Society, Dr. Michaela Zimmermann Hofgartenstr. 8, 80539 München, Germany [email protected], www.mpg.de
9 innovativE and forward-looking
Research and Development in Germany Germany is a land of science and research. The development of innovative technologies and products is an important foundation of the world’s fourth largest economy. The export of technological goods alone accounts for one fifth of the country’s economic product. Germany invests roughly 75 billion euros a year in research and development. Most of these funds come from companies, a sum of over 50 billion euros in 2011.
More than a quarter of all industrial enterprises in Germany actively engage in research: almost 9,500 manufacturing companies conduct research and development, including many SMEs. Some 350,000 of the total of 567,000 scientists in the research and development field work in the private sector, a quarter of them in the automotive industry. How ever, the electrical industry, the chemicals and pharmaceuticals sector and engineering firms also have a high demand for R&D personnel. German companies therefore offer interesting fields of employment for international experts.
Biotechnology, innovative services, information and communication technologies, microsystems technology, nanotechnologies, optical technologies and production and materials technologies are important research fields of the future – above all, in fields of application such as automotive, medical technology, mechanical engineering and logis- tics. This is why the Federal Government supports research in these key technologies, where higher education institutions and non- university research institutes work hand in hand with research-per- forming companies.
10 ComPaniEs as fundErs German industry is not just an employer in this field. Many business- es also actively engage in promoting talent and research or endow university chairs. Companies finance over 400 of the current total of 1,000 privately funded professorships. The focus here is firmly on developing research talent. Young researchers are supported with scholarships and prizes – usually awarded by corporate foundations. assoCiation of donors Some 3,000 companies, business associations, foundations and private individuals have joined together in the Stifterverband für die deutsche Wissenschaft. This association maintains a database of undergraduate, postgraduate and postdoctoral scholarships as well as funding for specific research projects or expeditions with which (corporate) foundations support researchers. Searches of this informa- tion can be carried out at: www.stifterverband.info/stiftungen_und_stifter/foerderung (in German only) suPPort from foundations – sElECtEd ExamPlEs Many private foundations are also active outside the Stifterverband. The Volkswagen Foundation, for example, has supported roughly 30,000 projects with around 4 billion euros in the 50 years since it was established. That makes it Germany’s largest charitable foundation established under private law. www.volkswagenstiftung.de
The Daimler and Benz Foundation was established in 1986 by Daimler- Benz AG in memory of the company’s two founders. It supports interdisciplinary research that seeks to clarify the interplay of forces between humanity, technology and the environment. For example, it offers postdoctoral fellowships that help young researchers realise their own research projects at German universities or research insti- tutions. www.daimler-benz-stiftung.de
11 ExCEllEnt and nEtworkEd
European Research Funding The European Union (EU) can draw on an enormous pool of innovative resources, technological expertise and new ideas. European research policy aims to concentrate these qualities and make them product- ive, exploit synergies and strengthen Europe’s competitivenes in the world. Europe means business here: the EU’s 7th Framework Pro- gramme (FP7) is the world’s largest funding programme for research – with a total budget of 54 billion euros until the end of 2013. It will be superseded in 2014 by Horizon 2020, the new European Frame- work Programme for Research and Innovation, which is planned to have a total budget of 80 billion euros until 2020. Europe has set itself three priorities here: promoting excellent science, strengthening industrial leadership and addressing major societal concerns, such as health, climate, energy, food safety and security.
When it comes to realising excellent science, Horizon 2020 will not only support European research infrastructure measures, but also research into future and emerging technologies (FET). In 2013 two of these promising mega-research projects were awarded the EU’s largest ever research grants of one billion euros each: the Graphene Project and the Human Brain Project under Swedish and Swiss leader- ship respectively. Both projects are well networked in Europe and German researchers are making a major contribution. http://cordis.europa.eu/fp7/ict/programme/fet/flagship
The established Marie Curie Actions, which promote mobility and cooperation among European researchers, will also be continued with the goal of promoting European excellence. So far 4.7 billion euros (5.75 billion euros planned from 2014 to 2020) have been provided to support mainly junior researchers who work and research in Europe. Marie Curie Actions are open to all disciplines and subdivided into individual funding schemes. These programmes help institutions train new research talent or support cooperation between research and industry. In addition, Marie Curie supports individual research projects by junior researchers. From 2014 onwards, the programme will continue under the name Marie Skłodowska Curie Actions. http://ec.europa.eu/research/mariecurieactions
12 Groundbreaking research is being supported by the European Research Council (ERC). Since 2007 this body has funded basic research to advance projects at the frontier of knowledge. The focus of attention is on the outstanding research of the individuals involved and the inno- vativeness and progressivity of the project idea. Project proposals can be submitted by outstanding researchers who wish to carry out research in an institution in Europe. erc.europa.eu/call-proposals
National Contact Points (Nationale Kontaktstellen, NKS) provide in- formation about the 7th Framework Programme for Research and Horizon 2020 and support applicants during all phases of the appli- cation process – from the classification of an idea to the drafting and submission of the application to the implementation of the project. http://cordis.europa.eu/fp7/ncp_en.html
Students, junior researchers and academic staff at higher education institutions can also receive funding from the recently established Erasmus for All programme, which will take over from the Erasmus Mundus programme at the end of 2013. From 2014 onwards, this new EU programme for education, training, youth and sport will support not only the mobility of students and researchers, but also, among other things, reseach alliances between higher education institutions and companies. Up to 5 million scholarship holders – almost twice as many as previously – will then be able to complete part of their training abroad. Some 17.3 billion euros are to be made available to the programme until 2020. http://ec.europa.eu/education/erasmus-for-all
A guide to European funding opportunities is available at http://cordis.europa.eu/eu-funding-guide A comprehensive Europe-wide scholarship database, supported by the European Commission and the Erasmus programme, is available at www.scholarshipportal.eu
13 German Funding Programmes for Scientists and Researchers
14 15 PhD Students
Individual Doctoral Projects at Fraunhofer Institutes
rEquirEmEnts duration As a rule, candidates are expected Generally 3 years with option to to have successfully completed a renew. university degree comparable to a German Master’s degree and be aPPliCation capable of conducting independent Applications should be submitted research. In addition, teamworking to the Fraunhofer Institute of your and communication skills are re- choice. Vacancies are advertised on quired as well as a good knowledge the websites of individual institutes of the English language. or on the job exchange.
ProgrammE dEsCriPtion PhD students receive the opportun- ity to work on exciting projects in the newest areas of technology with state-of-the-art equipment.
suPPort Funding is based on the German public service pay scale and includes attractive benefits and flexible, family-friendly working conditions.
https://recruiting.fraunhofer.de/Jobs For an overview of all vacancies, visit: www.fraunhofer.de/en/jobs-career
16 PhD Students
Individual PhD Thesis at Helmholtz Centres rEquirEmEnts ProgrammE dEsCriPtion As a rule, candidates are expected Helmholtz Centres offer PhD students to have an outstanding university an excellent research environment degree comparable to a German and interdisciplinary postgraduate Master’s degree in an appropriate training and research work. subject for the advertised doctoral research or for a PhD research pro- suPPort posal that is relevant to the respect- Fellowships or work contracts; the ive research project. Candidates funding amount is based on quali- should also have research experience. fication level and family status. English language skills are essential. duration Generally 3 years with possible extension.
aPPliCation Applications should be submitted to the Helmholtz researcher/super- visor. Doctoral research positions are advertised on the Helmholtz Association website.
www.helmholtz.de/jobs
17 PhD Students
International Helmholtz Research Schools and Graduate Schools
rEquirEmEnts suPPort As a rule, candidates are expected Fellowships or work contracts; the to have an outstanding university funding amount is based on quali- degree comparable to a German fication level and family status. Master’s degree in an appropriate subject for the desired research insti- duration tute, pre vious research experience Generally 3 years with possible and a relevant PhD research proposal extension. for the respective research group. English language skills are essential. aPPliCation Applications should be submitted ProgrammE dEsCriPtion to the Helmholtz research schools or These research schools and gradu- graduate schools. The individual ate schools offer structured doctoral schools advertise their vacancies or programmes for highly qualified set application deadlines. You will PhD students in partnership with find links to the different schools on universities. Young researchers gain the Helmholtz Association website. considerable experience of close research cooperation between work groups. In addition, they receive professional skills and personal de- velopment training.
www.helmholtz.de/phd
18 PhD Students
Green Talents rEquirEmEnts exchange between young researchers Applicants must be currently enrolled in the field of environmental and sus- in a Master or PhD programme or tainability research. already hold a postgraduate degree with significantly above-average suPPort grades. Their work must be related to The prize winners are invited to a innovative green solutions from an science forum that takes them on a interdisciplinary point of view. Further- journey to leading German centres more, an excellent command of the of environmental and sustainability English language is required. Non- research. In addition, they have the German citizenship and residence out- opportunity to return for a BMBF- side Germany as well as a maximum funded research stay. age of 32 years (at the time of applica- tion) are additional prerequisites. duration The competition invites young scien- ProgrammE dEsCriPtion tists to participate in a ten-day sci- Every year Germany’s Federal Minis- ence forum in Germany. Additional- try of Education and Research ly, the Green Talents receive the (BMBF) invites young researchers unique opportunity to complete a re- from all over the world to take part in search stay of up to three months at Green Talents – The International Fo- an institution of their choice during rum for High Potentials in Sustaina- the year following the forum. ble Development. The winners are se- lected for their creative and intelligent aPPliCations solutions to the pressing questions of Detailed information and a link to our time. With this programme the the online application tool are avail- BMBF is seeking to intensify global able on the Green Talents website.
www.greentalents.de
19 PhD Students
Leibniz Graduate Schools
rEquirEmEnts suPPort Candidates are expected to have – Scholarships or work contracts; or to receive within the next six months funding for consumables and travel – an excellent university degree com- allowances. parable to a German Master’s degree in an appropriate subject for the duration desired graduate school. Scholarship for a maximum of 3 years. ProgrammE dEsCriPtion These graduate schools offer out- aPPliCation standing PhD students the opportun- Applications should be submitted ity to train in an excellent research directly to the coordinator of the environment (broad research area, research training group. institutions with international reputations). They provide ideal con- ditions for completing a PhD in a structured doctoral programme that can take place either at the Leibniz institution or a partner university. Postdocs/junior researchers receive strong support from Leibniz re- searchers and university professors in small groups and have access to international networks and con- ferences.
www.leibniz-gemeinschaft.de/ graduate-schools
20 PhD Students
Individual Doctoral Projects at Max Planck Institutes rEquirEmEnts material expenses allowance, chil- As a rule, candidates are expected dren’s allowance and/or recruitment to have an outstanding university bonus). The support contract equal degree comparable to a German to 50 per cent of payment group 13 of Master’s degree in an appropriate the Collective Wage Agreement subject for the advertised PhD re- for Government Service Workers is search or for a relevant PhD research approx. 1,240 euros per month (net) proposal for the respective research plus recruitment bonus. project as well as previous research experience. English language skills duration are usually required. 3 years.
ProgrammE dEsCriPtion aPPliCation Highly qualified PhD students Applications can be submitted to the receive the opportunity to complete relevant institute at any time. Vacan- PhD projects within the scope of cies are advertised on the websites of research work conducted at a Max individual institutes or the Max Planck Institute. Planck job exchange. Job offers and advertisements are also published suPPort on Facebook and Twitter. Funding is based on qualification level and family status, grants and work contracts. The basic PhD fellowship is 1,365 euros per month (plus health insurance allowance,
www.mpg.de/institutes, www.mpg.de/stellenboerse, http://twitter.com/maxplanckpress, www.facebook.com/maxplancksociety
21 PhD Students
International Max Planck Research Schools
rEquirEmEnts suPPort As a rule, candidates are expected to Funding is based on qualification level have an outstanding university de- and family status, grants and work gree comparable to a German Master’s contracts. The basic PhD fellowship is degree in an appropriate subject 1,365 euros per month (plus health in- for the desired research institute. surance allowance, material expenses Relevant research experience is use- allowance, children’s allowance and/ ful. Fluency in English is essential. or recruitment bonus). The support Applicants should have a genuine in- contract equal to 50 per cent of pay- terest in and curiosity about the ment group 13 of the Collective Wage natural sciences, life sciences, social Agreement for Government Service sciences or humanities. Workers is approx. 1,240 euros per month (net) plus recruitment bonus. ProgrammE dEsCriPtion International Max Planck Research duration Schools (IMPRSs) offer PhD students 3 years. the opportunity to complete a doc- torate in structured programmes aPPliCation that provide excellent research con- Applications must be submitted to ditions. IMPRSs are jointly managed the respective IMPRS. Vacancies and by Max Planck Institutes and univer- application deadlines are advertised sities, whereby IMPRS students have on the institutes’ websites. You will the choice of receiving their doctor- find links to the individual IMPRSs ates either from a German university on the Max Planck Society website. or their home university.
www.imprs.mpg.de
22 PhD Students Postdocs/Junior Researchers
Research Grants for Doctoral Candidates and Young Academics and Scientists rEquirEmEnts duration Very highly qualified university The duration of funding is deter- gradu ates can apply for a DAAD re- mined by the grant commission dur- search grant. In addition to this, ing the selection process. Generally the most important selection criterion it is 1 to 10 months if the doctorate is is a convincing and well-planned completed in a foreign country and research and training proposal for the up to 3 years for a full doctoral pro- stay in Germany that has been gramme in Germany (full doctorate agreed with an academic supervisor only for some countries, please at the prospective German host insti- check www.funding-guide.de for tution. more specific information).
ProgrammE dEsCriPtion aPPliCation These Research Grants are primarily The application details vary from for PhD students. They offer the country to country. For country- opportunity to realise a research or specific information on dates and training project at a state or state- deadlines please check the pro- recognised German university or gramme website. non-university research institution. suPPort 750 to 1,000 euros per month (de- pending on qualification level) and additional allowances.
www.funding-guide.de
23 PhD Students Postdocs/Junior Researchers
Clusters of Excellence
rEquirEmEnts and career conditions for early career As a rule, Clusters of Excellence researchers. The DFG currently sup- (Exzellenzcluster) expect candidates ports 43 Clusters of Excellence. to have an outstanding degree in a relevant subject. They should also be suPPort highly motivated and fluent in the Doctoral and postdoctoral positions English language. as advertised in the job offers, e.g. on the website of the Cluster of Excel- ProgrammE dEsCriPtion lence. Clusters of Excellence are established within the framework of the German duration Excellence Initiative. The Excellence Generally 3 years for doctoral posi- Initiative aims to promote top-level tions, otherwise dependent on the research and to improve the quality of position. German universities and research in- stitutions in general. Clusters of Ex- aPPliCation cellence enable German university Applications should be submitted locations to establish internationally to the coordinator of the Cluster of visible, competitive research and Excellence of your choice. An up-to- training facilities, thereby enhancing date list of Clusters of Excellence is scientific networking and coopera- available on the DFG website. tion among the participating institu- tions. They create excellent training
www.dfg.de/en/excellence-initiative/exc
24 PhD Students Postdocs/Junior Researchers
Collaborative Research Centres rEquirEmEnts Research Centres. Doctoral and post- As a rule, Collaborative Research doctoral researchers achieve addi- Centres (Sonderforschungsbereiche) tional qualifications through working expect candidates to have an out- in CRC projects. Highly qualified and standing degree in a relevant subject. renowned postdoctoral researchers They should also be highly motivated may also assume project leadership and fluent in the English language. within a CRC.
ProgrammE dEsCriPtion suPPort Collaborative Research Centres Doctoral and postdoctoral positions (CRC) are established at universities as advertised in job offers, e.g. on the for a period of up to 12 years and CRC’s website. enable researchers to pursue an out- standing research programme, duration crossing the boundaries of disci- Generally 3 years for doctoral plines, institutes, departments and positions, otherwise dependent on faculties. The DFG currently sup- the position. ports more than 230 Collaborative aPPliCation Applications should be submitted to the coordinator of the Collaborative Research Centre of your choice. An up-to-date list of Collaborative Research Centres is available on the DFG website.
www.dfg.de/sfb/en
25 PhD Students Postdocs/Junior Researchers
Graduate Schools
rEquirEmEnts cial communities. The DFG now As a rule, Graduate Schools (Gradu- supports 45 Graduate Schools. iertenschulen) expect candidates to have an outstanding degree in a suPPort relevant subject. They should also Research positions and scholarships, be highly motivated and fluent in the funding for consumables and travel English language. allowances.
ProgrammE dEsCriPtion duration Graduate Schools are established Generally 3 to 4 years for PhD within the framework of the German positions, otherwise dependent Excellence Initiative. The Excellence on the position. Initiative aims to promote top-level research and to improve the quality aPPliCation of German universities and research Applications should be submitted institutions in general. Graduate to the coordinator of the Graduate Schools within this framework offer School of your choice. You will find training to outstanding PhD stu- an up-to-date list of graduate schools dents in an excellent research envi- on the DFG website. ronment (broad scientific area, insti- tution with international reputation) and enable them to become active members of their academic and so-
www.dfg.de/en/excellence-initiative/gsc
26 PhD Students Postdocs/Junior Researchers
Research Training Groups rEquirEmEnts suPPort As a rule, Research Training Groups Research Training Groups offer (Graduiertenkollegs) expect candi- funding to PhD students, postdocs/ dates to have an outstanding degree junior researchers, visiting re- in a relevant subject. They should searchers and research students and also be highly motivated and fluent cover expenses for travel, work- in the English language. shops, small equipment, consuma- bles, coordination, etc. ProgrammE dEsCriPtion Research Training Groups are set up duration by universities and pursue a focused Generally 3 years for doctoral research programme. PhD students positions, otherwise depending engage in independent research ac- on the position. tivities. Additional qualification pro- grammes strengthen their expertise aPPliCation for the job market in research and Applications should be submitted higher education. The DFG now sup- to the coordinator of the research ports more than 220 Research Train- training group of your choice. You ing Groups. Another variant: Inter- will find an up-to-date list of research national Research Training Groups training groups on the DFG website. (joint research training programmes with a partner institution abroad).
www.dfg.de/gk/en
27 PhD Students Postdocs/Junior Researchers Senior Researchers
Research Fellowships in Space, Aeronautics, Energy and Transportation Research
rEquirEmEnts and an additional monthly allowance As a rule, candidates are expected for materials of 102 euros; senior to have a very good university degree researchers: 2,300 euros per month. in a relevant subject and to be fluent in the English language. The specific duration requirements can be found in the re- 36 months for PhD students; 6 to 24 spective advertisements. months for postdocs/junior re- searchers; 1 to 3 months for senior ProgrammE dEsCriPtion researchers. Outstanding scientists and research- ers receive the opportunity to con- aPPliCation duct special research at the institutes Please visit the DAAD and DLR web- of the German Aerospace Center sites www.daad.de/dlr to view cur- (DLR). Fellowships are defined and rently available fellowships. Applica- awarded on an individual basis. tion deadlines are specified under “Current Offers”. suPPort PhD students: 1,365 euros per month with possible additional flat-rate travel allowance, health insurance, family allowances; postdocs/junior researchers: 2,000 euros per month
www.daad.de/dlr
28 PhD Students Postdocs/Junior Researchers Senior Researchers
Erasmus Mundus Joint Doctorates Erasmus Mundus Mobility Partnerships rEquirEmEnts suPPort The required qualifications depend The European Commission provides on programme and project. Schol- funding for scholarships for the arships can also be awarded to selected Joint Doctoral Programmes. researchers and university teachers Supported doctoral candidates from European and non-European receive a contract of employment countries. Details and application with a monthly gross salary of 2,800 requirements can be found in the euros and additional allowances. respective project description. duration ProgrammE dEsCriPtion Action 1 awards scholarships for Erasmus Mundus Action 1 funds 3-year EMJD programmes. Action international courses at Master and 2 scholarships are awarded for dif- doctoral level including fellowships ferent periods (3 months to 3 years). to participate in these programmes. Erasmus Mundus Action 2 funds aPPliCation mobility networks between European Candidates should address their and third country higher education applications directly to the selected institutions including fellowships Erasmus Mundus Master and doc- for mobility. toral programmes (Action 1) and to the selected Erasmus Mundus part- nerships (Action 2). The available programmes are listed on the web- site.
http://eacea.ec.europa.eu/ erasmus_mundus
29 Postdocs/Junior Researchers
Georg Forster Research Fellowship for Postdoctoral Researchers
rEquirEmEnts research project must deal with Applications are accepted from high- development-related issues. ly qualified researchers in all disci- plines from developing and emerg- suPPort ing countries (excluding the People’s Research fellowship (2,650 euros Republic of China and India) who per month), language fellowship, completed their doctorates less than travel expenses, family allowances, 4 years ago. Further requirements in- integration into the worldwide, clude academic publications in jour- cross-disciplinary network of the nals or publishing houses that are Humboldt Foundation, extensive subject to peer review according to alumni sponsorship, allowance for international standards, confirma- research costs (for host institution). tion that research facilities are avail- able, a mentoring agreement and a duration detailed expert’s statement by an ac- 6 to 24 months. ademic host at a research institution in Germany. The research proposal aPPliCation must address issues of significant Applications can be submitted at relevance to the future development any time. of the country of origin.
ProgrammE dEsCriPtion The fellowship allows researchers to carry out a research project in Germany in cooperation with an aca- demic host of their choice. The
www.humboldt-foundation.de/ web/programmes.html
30 Postdocs/Junior Researchers
Humboldt Research Fellowship for Postdoctoral Researchers rEquirEmEnts suPPort Candidates are expected, among Research fellowship (2,650 euros other things, to have completed a per month), language fellowship, doctorate or a comparable academic travel expenses, family allowances, degree less than four years before integration into the worldwide, the submission of the application. cross-disciplinary network of the Additional requirements include Humboldt Foundation, extensive academic publications in journals alumni sponsorship, allowance for or publishing houses that are subject research costs (for host institution). to peer review according to inter- national standards, con firmation duration that research facilities are available, 6 to 24 months. a mentoring agreement and a de- tailed expert’s statement by an aPPliCation academic host at a research insti- Applications can be submitted at any tution in Germany. time.
ProgrammE dEsCriPtion This fellowship allows researchers to carry out their own research project in cooperation with an aca- demic host of their choice at a research institute in Germany.
www.humboldt-foundation.de/web/programmes.html
31 Postdocs/Junior Researchers
Sofja Kovalevskaja Award
rEquirEmEnts suPPort Candidates are expected to hold a Award: up to 1.65 million euros. doctorate or a comparable academic Humboldt Foundation hallmarks: degree that was completed with integration into the worldwide, distinction less than 6 years ago. The cross-disciplinary network of the award is open to all disciplines. Humboldt Foundation, extensive Equally important are cutting-edge alumni sponsorship. academic achievements documented by a comprehensive list of academic duration publications for internationally 5 years. reviewed journals and publishing houses. aPPliCation Candidates must apply jointly with ProgrammE dEsCriPtion their host institution. The Award allows researchers to es- tablish their own working groups and spend 5 years working on a high- profile, innovative research project of their choice at research institutions in Germany.
www.humboldt-foundation.de/web/programmes.html
32 Postdocs/Junior Researchers
Leibniz-DAAD Research Fellowships rEquirEmEnts suPPort In particular, the prerequisites for The grant includes a monthly sum a successful application include an of 2,000 euros, a monthly subsidy of effective doctoral career as well as 58 euros for health, accident and an outstanding international list of personal/private liability insurance publications. It is also crucial that in Germany (53 euros per month has the research project proposal matches to be paid by the fellowship holder); the selected Leibniz Institute. The a 2-month German language course doctorate must have been completed (if desired). less than 2 years ago. duration ProgrammE dEsCriPtion Up to a maximum of 12 months. The Leibniz-DAAD Research Fellow- ship Programme is jointly funded aPPliCation by the Leibniz Association and the Applications must be submitted to German Academic Exchange Service the DAAD. (DAAD). The fellowships offer out- standing, recently qualified foreign postdocs/junior researchers the op- portunity to conduct special research at one of the 86 institutes of the Leib- niz Association in Germany.
www.daad.de/leibniz
33 Postdocs/Junior Researchers
Emmy Noether Programme
rEquirEmEnts suPPort Candidates are expected to have an Funding for an independent junior excellent research project and at least research group; includes supervisory 2 years and up to a maximum of salary and covers expenses for staff 4 years (medical researchers: up to and consumables necessary to com- 6 years) of postdoctoral experience plete the project during the funding including substantial international period. research experience; foreign appli- cants are eligible if they intend duration to continue their research career in Generally 5 years (maximum of Germany following completion 6 years). at the end of the funding period. aPPliCation ProgrammE dEsCriPtion No submission deadlines. This programme enables outstand- ing postdocs/junior researchers to rapidly qualify for leading positions in science and research or for a uni- versity teaching career by heading an independent junior research group and assuming relevant teaching duties.
www.dfg.de/emmy_noether/en
34 Postdocs/Junior Researchers
ERC Consolidator Grants rEquirEmEnts research projects by highly qualified This grant scheme provides support postdoctoral researchers with the for excellent young scientists for 7–12 goal of fostering the recipient’s years (in exceptional cases up to 16.5 research independence through the years) after completion of their PhD development or consolidation of a thesis. Candidates are expected to research team. All research disci- have a promising academic track plines are supported. Interdiscipli- record and an excellent research pro- nary projects are highly encouraged. posal. The research project must be carried out at a research institution suPPort in Europe (European Union or asso- Research projects can receive up to ciated country). Applicants can be of 2 million euros (in exceptional cases any nationality and age. up to 2.75 million euros) in funding.
ProgrammE dEsCriPtion duration At the European level the European Up to 5 years. Research Council (ERC) supports aPPliCation Applications must be submitted in combination with and in the name of the host institution. ERC Consolida- tor Grants are advertised once a year. Application deadlines are published on the website.
www.erc-germany.de
35 Postdocs/Junior Researchers
ERC Starting Grants
rEquirEmEnts plines are supported. Interdiscipli- Candidates are expected to have nary projects are highly encouraged. between 2 and 7 years (in exceptional cases up to 11.5 years) of research suPPort experience after completion of their Research projects can receive up to PhD thesis, a promising academic 1.5 million euros (in exceptional cas- track record and an excellent research es up to 2 million euros) in funding. proposal. Applicants can be of any nationality and age. The research duration project must be carried out at a Up to 5 years. research institution in Europe (Euro- pean Union or associated country). aPPliCation Applications must be submitted in ProgrammE dEsCriPtion combination with and in the name of At the European level the European the host institution. ERC Starting Research Council (ERC) supports Grants are advertised once a year. research projects by highly qualified Application deadlines are published postdoctoral researchers with the on the website. goal of fostering the recipient’s research independence through the development or consolidation of a research team. All research disci-
www.erc-germany.de
36 Postdocs/Junior Researchers
Helmholtz Postdoc Programme rEquirEmEnts suPPort This programme is open to young Selected candidates will receive scientists who have either gained 100,000 euros annually. They can use their doctoral qualification in Ger- the grants to pay their own salary many or abroad within the past year and that of a technical assistant, if (up to two years with parental leave) required. In addition, the grants or are about to complete their degree. provide the flexibility and means to Although the most important selec- cover travel expenses arising from tion criterion is the academic quality a (mandatory) stay abroad during the of the candidate’s doctoral thesis, grant period. outstanding grades and publications are also of relevance to the selection duration process, as are any prizes or awards Up to 3 years. candidates may have won. aPPliCation ProgrammE dEsCriPtion Candidates must independently find Talented young researchers can work Helmholtz researchers who would independently at Helmholtz on a re- be willing to accept them at their in- search topic of their choice and es- stitution for the duration of the pro- tablish themselves in their respective gramme. Applicants are selected by a field. To promote equal opportunities, committee of distinguished experts. at least half of the positions in the As a rule, calls for applications are programme are granted to women. advertised in spring.
www.helmholtz.de/postdoc
37 Postdocs/Junior Researchers
Helmholtz Young Investigators Groups
rEquirEmEnts euros a year, which includes: salary The most important selection criteri- of group leader (generally at level E on is the academic excellence of the 14/15 TVöD or BAT Ib/Ia on the rel- applicant, whose doctorate should evant pay scale); salaries of scientific have been completed between 2 and or technical staff (3 on average); 6 years ago (periods of childcare are expenses for materials, supplies and taken into account). investments.
ProgrammE dEsCriPtion duration The best postdocs/junior research- 5 to 6 years with an evaluation after ers receive excellent working condi- 3 to 4 years. tions in a research-oriented envi- ronment. Researchers are granted aPPliCation independence early on with secure Applicants must apply directly to the career prospects (“tenure track”) respective Helmholtz Centre by the based on proven research achieve- end of March. The centres nominate ment. Leaders of Investigators their candidates and request them Groups are expected to work closely to submit a full application. with university partners. They have the opportunity to gain teaching experience and the qualifications for a career in higher education.
suPPort Young Investigators Groups are awarded a minimum of 250,000
www.helmholtz.de/yig
38 Postdocs/Junior Researchers
Head of a Max Planck Research Group at a Max Planck Institute rEquirEmEnts search Groups. Candidates receive The programme is aimed at young, their own fixed budget to run their highly qualified scientists and re- research programme/research searchers who have ideally already group at a Max Planck Institute. had one to two postdoctoral posi- tions and are in a position to realise suPPort an independent research project. Personal budget to cover costs of Above all, the programme is looking material and human resources, for postdocs/junior researchers with funding for key equipment, average viable and innovative ideas. salary group W2 based on the Ger- man Federal Salary Scale. ProgrammE dEsCriPtion The Max Planck Society offers gifted duration young scientists and researchers 5 years (two 2-year extensions pos- the chance to conduct independent sible). scientific work in Max Planck Re- aPPliCation Positions at specific institutes are advertised throughout the year. Cen- tral advertisements are normally published once a year in autumn. In addition, positions are advertised in specialist journals and on their websites.
www.mpg.de/institutes, www.mpg.de/career_programs
39 Postdocs/Junior Researchers
Max Planck Grants for Advanced Postdoctoral Training
rEquirEmEnts of the Collective Wage Agreement for As a rule, candidates are expected Government Service Workers. to have an outstanding doctorate in a relevant field and at least two years duration of research experience. Grant or temporary appointment contracts for between two and seven ProgrammE dEsCriPtion years. Postdocs/junior researchers receive the opportunity to gain additional aPPliCation knowledge and skills at a Max Planck Positions are advertised as required Institute on the basis of their prior in specialist journals (also in inter- professional qualifications. national publications), the Internet job exchange of the Max Planck Soci- suPPort ety or on the website of the respec- Funding is based on qualification or tive institute. It is also possible to age and family status, grants and contact the respective MPI directly. work contracts; funding ranges from 2,100 to 2,600 euros per month for foreign postdocs/junior researchers (plus health insurance allowance, married allowance). The work con- tract is based on payment group 13/14
www.mpg.de/institutes
40 Postdocs/Junior Researchers Senior Researchers
Bilateral Exchange of Academics rEquirEmEnts suPPort Invitations can be issued to foreign The costs of the stay are paid by researchers who already hold a the DAAD, but travel expenses must doctorate and come from countries be borne by the partner institution with which an exchange of re- in the country of origin. searchers is envisaged within the framework of cultural exchange duration programmes or other bilateral 2 weeks to 3 months. agreements. Depending on the pro- gramme involved, the researcher aPPliCation exchange can be limited to specific The application details vary from institutions and/or disciplines. country to country. For country- specific information on dates and ProgrammE dEsCriPtion deadlines please check the pro- The programme supports research gramme website. and study visits within the frame- work of the bilateral exchange of sci- entists and scholars. You can deter- mine whether the programme is offered for your country/discipline at www.funding-guide.de.
www.funding-guide.de
41 Postdocs/Junior Researchers Senior Researchers
Re-invitation Programme for Former Scholarship Holders
rEquirEmEnts can also apply for a work stay at This programme is aimed at former another institution in the fields of recipients of DAAD research or study business, industry, administration, scholarships with a duration of more culture or the media. than 6 months or former GDR schol- arship holders who studied for at least suPPort 1 year in Germany. Applicants must In addition to a monthly scholarship have returned to their home countries payment that is dependent on aca- at least 3 years ago. The most impor- demic status (2,000 to 2,300 euros), tant selection criterion is a convincing the DAAD generally pays a travel and well-planned research or working expense allowance, unless these costs project for the stay in Germany, which are borne by the home country or has been agreed in terms of content another institution. and schedule with the supervising host in Germany. duration 1 to 3 months. ProgrammE dEsCriPtion Funding is provided for research and aPPliCation work projects at a state-run or state- The application details vary from recognised higher education insti- country to country. For country- tution or non-university research in- specific information on dates and stitute. Former scholarship holders deadlines please check the pro- working outside the academic sector gramme website.
www.funding-guide.de
42 Postdocs/Junior Researchers Senior Researchers
Research Stays for University Academics and Scientists rEquirEmEnts ProgrammE dEsCriPtion All applicants must work in a higher Foreign researchers at universities education institution or research or research institutions receive institute in their home country. The the opportunity to carry out a re- most important selection criterion, search project at a state-run or state- alongside the applicant’s previous recognised higher education insti- research track record, is a convincing tution or non-university research and well-planned research project institute. that has been agreed with the pro- spective German host institute. suPPort The size of the monthly scholarship is dependent on academic status (2,000 to 2,300 euros), and generally includes a travel allowance.
duration 1 to 3 months.
aPPliCation The application details vary from country to country. For country- specific information on dates and deadlines please check the pro- gramme website.
www.funding-guide.de
43 Postdocs/Junior Researchers Senior Researchers
Grants to Support the Initiation of International Collaboration
rEquirEmEnts suPPort Researchers who hold a doctorate Funding covers travel expenses, and who are working at a German maintenance expenses and event research institution can submit an costs. Certain costs may be application for support for a bilateral co-financed by a foreign partner collaboration. It should outline organisation if a corresponding the basis for the research benefit of agreement exists. the project as well as the concrete objective and the added value created duration by the international collaboration. Maximum of 3 months for research visits; all activities, such as joint ProgrammE dEsCriPtion workshops, must take place within These grants support international 12 months. collaboration by enabling eligible German and foreign researchers and aPPliCation academics to plan partner visits and/ Applications can be submitted at any or joint workshops with their part- time by researchers working in the ners. Support is provided for the early German research system. stages of planning, developing and coordinating joint research coopera- tion between international partners. Funding can be provided for visits to Germany and/or to the partner in- stitute abroad for periods of up to 3 months and joint workshops either in Germany or in the partner country.
www.dfg.de/en/bilateral_cooperation
44 Postdocs/Junior Researchers Senior Researchers
Mercator Fellowship rEquirEmEnts suPPort Applications for a Mercator Fellow- Fellows may receive a salary accord- ship will only be accepted for ing to their qualification. Addition- researchers working at a German ally, they will receive an allowance to research institution. The application cover travel expenses. will be within the framework of a larger comprehensive application duration in one of the DFG’s programmes The length of the research stay is not (please consult DFG guidelines). Its specified. Depending on the project’s purpose is to invite distinguished needs and the availability of the researchers who will contribute to Mercator Fellow, either one extended attaining the project’s objective. stay, e.g. a semester or a year, or several shorter stays are possible. ProgrammE dEsCriPtion The Mercator Fellowship facilitates aPPliCation long-term project-based cooperation Applications can be submitted at any between German and international time by a researcher or project coor- researchers. The Mercator Fellow dinator in Germany. Please consult will spend a period of time at a Ger- the availability of this module in the man research institution working on information sections on respective a collaborative project and will re- DFG programmes such as Research main closely associated with the Grants, Research Training Groups, team members and the project once Collaborative Research Centres and the research stay has ended. others. Kindly note that individual applications by prospective Mercator Fellows are not possible.
www.dfg.de/en/mercator
45 Postdocs/Junior Researchers Senior Researchers
Research Grants
rEquirEmEnts Module, Temporary Positions for The research project is expected Principal Investigators, Mercator to be of a high academic quality and Fellows (for a full list of available originality at an international level. modules, consult the DFG website). Proposals can be submitted by quali- Funding depends on the specific fied researchers (as a rule, those hold- proposal modules. ing a doctorate) from all disciplines. They must be supported by a state- duration ment from a German host institution The duration of funding is based indicating that it will assume employ- on individual project requirements er responsibilities during the fund- (as a rule, several years). ing period and, in cooperation with the applicant, provide the necessary aPPliCation conditions to carry out the research Proposals require a statement from project. the prospective German host institu- tion. First proposal: no submission ProgrammE dEsCriPtion deadlines; proposal for extension: at The grant enables scientists and least 6 months before approved scholars to realise a research project funds have been exhausted. on a defined subject within a limited period of time.
suPPort As part of the research grant pro- posal, one or more of the following modules can be submitted: Basic
www.dfg.de/research_grants
46 Postdocs/Junior Researchers Senior Researchers
Fraunhofer Attract rEquirEmEnts duration Candidates are expected to be high- 5 years for the establishment of ly qualified, preferably with post- an independent group within a doctoral experience, an outstanding Fraunhofer Institute; if successful, scientific track record and a prom- continuation as self-sustaining ising idea for industrial application. group within Fraunhofer. The programme is aimed at scien- tists whose ideas and competencies aPPliCation match or enhance the business and Every year 2 calls for proposals are technology fields of a specific organised. Submissions are only Fraunhofer Institute. possible with close cooperation be- tween the Fraunhofer Institute and ProgrammE dEsCriPtion the scientist. This support programme offers sub- stantial funding, both budgetary and recruiting responsibility, research in close cooperation with industry at state-of-the-art Fraunhofer labora- tories and ideal prospects in research and industry. suPPort 500,000 euros per year for 5 years (total of 2.5 million euros) for research staff and equipment.
www.fraunhofer.de/en/ jobs-career/fraunhofer-attract.html
47 Postdocs/Junior Researchers Senior Researchers
Marie Curie Intra-European Fellowships for Career Development
rEquirEmEnts suPPort Candidates must have completed a The researcher is supported with doctorate or have at least 4 years of a basic monthly salary, a mobility full-time equivalent research expe- grant and additional payments for rience after graduation or, respective- research materials. Host institutions ly, a degree entitling the researcher receive a grant for indirect costs. to embark on a doctorate. The pro- gramme is aimed at researchers of duration all nationalities who are presently 1 to 2 years. resident or working in an EU member country or an associated state. aPPliCation Applications must be submitted joint- ProgrammE dEsCriPtion ly with a host institution online to The fellowship funds a research the European Commission via the project at a research institution in Participant Portal using the Elec- Germany (or another EU member tronic Submission System. country or associated state) with the goal of supporting experienced researchers to enhance their quali- fications and diversify their special- ist competences.
National Contact Point Mobility at the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation: www.humboldt-foundation.de/nks/ief.html (in German only) http://ec.europa.eu/research/mariecurieactions/about-mca/actions/ief
48 Senior Researchers
Alexander von Humboldt Professorship rEquirEmEnts suPPort Candidates must be internationally 5 million euros for researchers in recognised as leaders in their re- experimental disciplines, 3.5 million search field. Foreign researchers in euros for researchers in theoretical all disciplines are eligible for nom- disciplines. Universities agree to ination if they can be expected to integrate the researchers and their contribute to enhancing Germany’s team in their strategic planning, long-term international competi- offering the researchers long-term tiveness as a research location as a prospects in Germany. result of the award. duration ProgrammE dEsCriPtion Initial sponsorship: 5 years. Award winners receive the opportuni- ty to carry out long-term and ground- aPPliCation breaking research in Germany. Ger- Nominations can only be made by man universities – also in cooperation German universities. Non-university with non-university research insti- research institutions may also sub- tutions – are able to establish or mit joint nominations with German strengthen internationally visible key universities. There are 2 selection research areas in order to enhance rounds per year. their profile.
www.humboldt-foundation.de/web/programmes.html
49 Senior Researchers
Fraunhofer Bessel Research Award
rEquirEmEnts suPPort The nominee must be recognised Award: 45,000 euros, Humboldt internationally as an outstanding Foundation hallmarks: integration researcher in his/her field of applied into the worldwide, cross-disciplinary research (e.g. awards, positive re- network of the Humboldt Founda- sponses to publications, etc.). It is tion, extensive alumni sponsorship. also expected that he/she will con- tinue to produce cutting-edge duration achievements that will have a semi- Maximum of 12 months. nal influence on the discipline. The nominee’s doctorate should have aPPliCation been completed less than 18 years Nominations must be submitted prior to nomination and the centre by the heads of institutes or senior of his/her life/work must be outside researchers at institutes belonging Europe. to the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft. Direct applications are not accepted. ProgrammE dEsCriPtion Award winners are invited to work closely with a partner at one of the Fraunhofer Institutes in Germany for up to 12 months. They become part of a global network of re- searchers maintained by the Alex- ander von Humboldt Foundation.
www.humboldt-foundation.de/ web/programmes.html
50 Senior Researchers
Friedrich Wilhelm Bessel Research Award rEquirEmEnts suPPort The nominee must be recognised Award: 45,000 euros; Humboldt internationally as an outstanding Foundation hallmarks: integration researcher in his/her field (e.g. awards, into the worldwide, cross-disciplinary positive responses to publications, network of the Humboldt Founda- etc.). It is also expected that he/she tion, extensive alumni sponsorship. will continue to produce cutting- edge achievements that will have a duration seminal influence on the discipline. Up to 12-month research stay in The nominee’s doctorate must have Germany. been completed less than 18 years prior to nomination. aPPliCation Nominations can be submitted by ProgrammE dEsCriPtion established researchers in Germany Award winners are honoured for their at any time. Direct applications are outstanding research record and not accepted. invited to spend a period of 6 to 12 months cooperating on a long-term research project with fellow experts at a research institute in Germany. The stay may be divided into blocks.
www.humboldt-foundation.de/web/programmes.html
51 Senior Researchers
Georg Forster Research Fellowship for Experienced Researchers
rEquirEmEnts academic host of their choice. Applications can be submitted by The research project must deal with highly qualified researchers in all development-related issues. disciplines from developing and emerging countries who completed suPPort their doctorates less than 12 years Research fellowship (3,150 euros ago. They should already have their per month), language fellowship, own research profile and be working travel expenses, family allowances, at least at the level of Assistant integration into the worldwide, Professor or Junior Research Group cross-disciplinary network of the Leader or have several years of in- Humboldt Foundation, extensive dependent research experience. Fur- alumni sponsorship, allowance for ther requirements include confir- research costs (for host institution). mation that research facilities are available, a mentoring agreement duration and a detailed expert’s statement by 6 to 18 months, may be divided up an academic host at a research in- into a maximum of 3 blocks within stitution in Germany. three years.
ProgrammE dEsCriPtion aPPliCation The fellowship enables researchers Applications may be submitted at to carry out a research project in any time. Germany in cooperation with an
www.humboldt-foundation.de/web/programmes.html
52 Senior Researchers
Humboldt Research Award rEquirEmEnts into the worldwide, cross-disciplinary The nominee must be recognised network of the Humboldt Founda- internationally as an outstandingly tion, extensive alumni sponsorship. qualified researcher (e.g. awards, positive responses to publications, duration etc.). It is also expected that he/she Up to 12-month research stay in will continue to produce cutting- Germany. The stay can be divided edge achievements in the future. into blocks. The award is granted in recognition of the entire previous achievements aPPliCation of a researcher whose fundamental Nominations can be submitted by discoveries, insights or new theo- established researchers in Germany ries have had a significant impact on at any time. Direct applications are his/her discipline. not accepted.
ProgrammE dEsCriPtion Award winners are invited to cooper- ate on a long-term research project with fellow experts at a research insti- tute in Germany. suPPort Award: 60,000 euros; Humboldt Foundation hallmarks: integration
www.humboldt-foundation.de/web/programmes.html
53 Senior Researchers
Humboldt Research Fellowship for Experienced Researchers
rEquirEmEnts suPPort Applications can be submitted by Research fellowship (3,150 euros highly qualified foreign researchers per month), language fellowship, in all disciplines who completed travel expenses, family allowances, their doctorate less than 12 years integration into the worldwide, ago, already have their own research cross-disciplinary network of the profile and are working at least at the Humboldt Foundation, extensive level of Assistant Professor or Junior alumni sponsorship, allowance for Research Group Leader or have research costs (for host institution). several years of independent research experience. Further requirements duration include confirmation that research 6 to 18 months, may be divided into facilities are available, a mentoring a maximum of 3 blocks within three agreement and a detailed expert’s years. statement by an academic host at a research institution in Germany. aPPliCation Applications can be submitted at any ProgrammE dEsCriPtion time. The fellowship enables researchers to carry out their own research project in cooperation with an aca- demic host of their choice at a research institute in Germany.
www.humboldt-foundation.de/ web/programmes.html
54 Senior Researchers
Heisenberg Programme: Fellowship/Professorship rEquirEmEnts suPPort Candidates must have completed Fellowship: award, travel expenses the habilitation process or hold a and, if applicable, allowance for ac- comparable qualification that enti- commodation abroad, publication tles the holder to a professorship. funding. The standard fellowship The research project must be of high award is 4,450 euros per month. Pro- academic quality and originality at fessorship: salary based on pay scale an international level and the candi- for professors. date is expected to have the potential to gain further qualifications as a duration university teacher. Applicants for a Maximum of 5 years. Heisenberg professorship must find a German university that intends to aPPliCation establish a new professorship and Proposals can be submitted at any agrees to continue funding the posi- time. Proposals require a statement tion after DFG funding expires. from the prospective host institu- tion. For a professorship: the German ProgrammE dEsCriPtion university must agree to establish a The Heisenberg Programme gives professorship after funding expires. excellent researchers the opportuni- ty to prepare for a leading position in science and research and to spend time working on an advanced re- search topic.
www.dfg.de/heisenberg/en
55 Senior Researchers
ERC Advanced Grants
rEquirEmEnts aPPliCation Candidates are expected to be lead- Experienced researchers of all ers in their respective research field nationalities are entitled to submit and be able to demonstrate signifi- applications with the host institu- cant research achievements in the tion. Advanced Grants are advertised past ten years. Applicants can be of once a year. Application deadlines any nationality. The research project are published on the website. must be carried out at a research in- stitution in Europe (European Union or associated country).
ProgrammE dEsCriPtion The ERC funds research projects at the frontiers of knowledge in all dis- ciplines. Interdisciplinary projects are highly encouraged.
suPPort Research projects can receive funding of up to 2.5 million euros (in excep- tional cases up to 3.5 million euros).
duration Up to 5 years.
www.erc-germany.de
56 Senior Researchers
ERC Synergy Grants rEquirEmEnts research problems that could lead Applications can be submitted by to breakthroughs that would not be 2 to 4 outstanding researchers and possible by an individual researcher their teams who wish to conduct re- working alone. search on a groundbreaking subject. The research project must be carried suPPort out at a research institute in Europe Research projects can receive up to (European Union or associated coun- 15 million euros of funding. try). Candidates are expected to have an innovative idea for a research duration project at the frontiers of science, an Up to 6 years. excellent scientific track record (pub- lications and other achievements) aPPliCation and a host institution in Europe (any Proposals are submitted by the Cor- research performing organisation, i.e. responding Principal Investigator universities, research organisations on behalf of the group. All the Prin- or private companies). Applicants cipal Investigators bear joint scien- can be of any nationality. tific responsibility for the group’s project on behalf of the host institu- ProgrammE dEsCriPtion tion, which is the applicant legal ERC Synergy Grants are intended to entity. ERC Grants are advertised bring together complementary once a year. Application deadlines skills, knowledge and resources in are published on the website. new ways in order to jointly address
www.erc-germany.de
57 Senior Researchers
International Visiting Scholars at Leibniz Institutes
rEquirEmEnts suPPort Outstanding qualifications and Monthly salary or fee (depending acknowledged research experience on the financial resources of the host are expected. institute).
ProgrammE dEsCriPtion duration The programme enables senior Dependent on the host institute, researchers to pursue or complete visits can start at any time. research in the research environ- ment of a Leibniz Institute. It pro- aPPliCation motes networking and strengthens Applications must be submitted cooperation between Leibniz In- directly to the respective Leibniz stitutes and their international part- Institute. ners.
www.leibniz-association.eu
58 Senior Researchers
Marie Curie International Incoming Fellowship rEquirEmEnts suPPort Researchers moving from third Funding allows you to join a European countries to EU member states or research team that does not have associated countries are eligible for your experience, establish a collabo- an International Incoming Fellow- ration through a research project ship (IIF). Applicants must have with your lab or your country and either a doctoral degree or at least transfer your knowledge to a European 4 years’ full-time research experience lab. The fellowship may also cover a after obtaining a degree that entitles return phase of one year. To qualify the holder to embark on a doctorate. for a return phase, you must be from That is the minimum requirement. one of the International Cooperation Applicants with more experience Partner Countries. have better chances of being accepted for this action. duration Financial support is provided for 12 ProgrammE dEsCriPtion to 24 months (full-time equivalent). Top-class researchers who are cur- The return phase has an additional rently active in third countries are duration of 12 months. welcome to work on projects in Europe. This helps to strengthen aPPliCation knowledge transfer between Europe Proposals are submitted in reply and other parts of the world – to to a call for proposals. Calls can everybody’s benefit. International be found and proposals submitted Incoming Fellowships (IIFs) are through the Participant portal. a Marie Curie Action specially de- signed to encourage these moves.
National Contact Point Mobility at the Alexander von Humboldt Founda- tion: www.humboldt-foundation.de/nks/iif.html (in German only) http://ec.europa.eu/research/mariecurieactions/about-mca/actions/iif
59 Senior Researchers
Foreign Visiting Researchers at Max Planck Institutes
rEquirEmEnts duration Outstanding qualifications and Variable, visits can start any time. acknowledged research experience are expected. aPPliCation Applications must be submitted ProgrammE dEsCriPtion to the respective host institute. The programme enables foreign researchers to conduct independent research at a Max Planck Institute. It aims to strengthen cooperation and promote networking between Max Planck Institutes and their in- ternational partners.
suPPort Individual grants and travel allow- ances.
www.mpg.de/institutes
60 Notes:
61 ovErviEw
All Funding Programmes (Listed by Funding Organisation)
Alexander von Humboldt Foundation (Humboldt Foundation)
Alexander von Humboldt Professorship ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 49
Friedrich Wilhelm Bessel Research Award ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 51
Georg Forster Research Fellowship for Experienced Researchers •••••••••••••••••• 52
Georg Forster Research Fellowship for Postdoctoral Researchers •••••••••••••••••• 30
Humboldt Research Award •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 53
Humboldt Research Fellowship for Experienced Researchers ••••••••••••••••••••••• 54
Humboldt Research Fellowship for Postdoctoral Researchers •••••••••••••••••••••••• 31
Sofja Kovalevskaja Award ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 32
European Funding Programmes
Erasmus Mundus Joint Doctorates, Erasmus Mundus Mobility Partnerships •••••••••••••• 29
ERC Advanced Grants •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 56
ERC Consolidator Grants •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 35
ERC Starting Grants ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 36
ERC Synergy Grants •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 57
Marie Curie International Incoming Fellowship ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 59
Marie Curie Intra-European Fellowships for Career Development ••••••••••••••••• 48
Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft
Fraunhofer Attract •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 47
Fraunhofer Bessel Research Award •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 50
Individual Doctoral Projects at Fraunhofer Institutes •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 16
German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)
Bilateral Exchange of Academics •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 41
Leibniz-DAAD Research Fellowships ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 33
Re-invitation Programme for Former Scholarship Holders ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 42 Research Fellowships in Space, Aeronautics, Energy and
Transportation Research (DLR, DAAD) ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 28
Research Grants for Doctoral Candidates and Young Academics and Scientists ••• 23
Research Stays for University Academics and Scientists •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 43
62 German Research Foundation (DFG)
Clusters of Excellence ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 24
Collaborative Research Centres •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 25
Emmy Noether Programme •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 34
Graduate Schools ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 26
Grants to Support the Initiation of International Collaboration •••••••••••••••••••••• 44
Heisenberg Programme: Fellowship/Professorship ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 55
Mercator Fellowship •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 45
Research Grants •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 46
Research Training Groups •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 27
Helmholtz Association
Helmholtz Postdoc Programme ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 37
Helmholtz Young Investigators Groups ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 38
Individual PhD Thesis at Helmholtz Centres •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 17
International Helmholtz Research Schools and Graduate Schools ••••••••••••••••• 18
International Bureau of the BMBF (IB)
Green Talents ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 19
Leibniz Association
International Visiting Scholars at Leibniz Institutes ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 58
Leibniz-DAAD Research Fellowships ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 33
Leibniz Graduate Schools ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 20
Max Planck Society (MPG)
Foreign Visiting Researchers at Max Planck Institutes •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 60
Head of a Max Planck Research Group at a Max Planck Institute •••••••••••••••• 39
Individual Doctoral Projects at Max Planck Institutes •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 21
International Max Planck Research Schools ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 22
Max Planck Grants for Advanced Postdoctoral Training •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 40
63 morE information
Useful Links
Research in Germany
The Internet portal www.research-in-germany.de offers comprehensive information on the structure of research funding in Germany, a con- cise overview of individual funding opportunities at various organisa- tions and numerous links to funding databases. www.research-in-germany.de/funding
DAAD Funding Database The scholarship database of the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) contains extensive information for those who are seeking financial support for their studies, research work or teaching assignments in Germany. www.funding-guide.de
PhDGermany The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) database publishes opportunities to do a doctorate at German universities and research institutions which are designed especially for applicants from abroad. www.phdgermany.de
64 Stifterverband
Founded in 1920, the Stifterverband supports research and higher edu- cation on behalf of the German business community and is comprised of 3,000 companies, foundations, business associations and individu- als. This website provides a search engine for research grants and other funding opportunities offered by more than 300 foundations. www.stifterverband.info > Stiftungen & Stifter > Förderung (in German only)
EURAXESS Germany Funding Database The EURAXESS Germany funding database comprises more than 100 German and EU funding programmes for foreign researchers. Most of the funding programmes presented on EURAXESS Germany are tar- geted at scientists and scholars at an advanced stage of their careers. www.euraxess.de/portal/funding_in.html
European Funding Programmes The European Liaison Office of the German Research Organisations (KoWi) helps you to find your way through the European funding jungle. Under the heading “Young Scientists” you will find detailed information on funding programmes for young researchers. www.kowi.eu
65 imPrint
About Research in Germany
The Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) launched the initiative to “Promote Innovation and Research in Germany” in 2006. Under the brand “Research in Germany – Land of Ideas” various measures and events presenting German innovation and research in key inter national markets have been organised on behalf of BMBF. The initiative seeks to strengthen and expand R&D collaboration between Germany and interna- tional partners.
The following Research in Germany publications are available at www.research-in-germany.de/downloads
• “The German Research Landscape – Who does research in Germany?”
• “FAQs – Doing a doctorate in Germany”
• “FAQs – Preparing your research stay in Germany”
• “Discover the Future of Research.now – Germany – Europe’s leader in Science”
We hope that our brochures will offer you guidance for your career in the German research sector. For more information about Research in Germany, please visit our website www.research-in-germany.de and subscribe to our newsletter www.research-in-germany.de/newsletter
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