Location: Germany
Program: Postdoctoral Research Fellowship
Eligibility: International Researchers
Duration: 6-24 months
Deadline: Not Specified
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The Alexander von Humboldt Research Fellowship 2026 is one of the world’s most prestigious research fellowships, established by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation to support researchers with above-average qualifications from across the globe, regardless of nationality or research field. As part of the Global Minds Initiative Germany of the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space, this program enables talented researchers at various career stages to conduct independent research projects at German research institutions of their choice in collaboration with an academic host. The Humboldt Foundation, renowned for its long-standing commitment to international scientific cooperation, provides not just financial support but also comprehensive individual mentorship and access to a diverse sponsorship portfolio that extends well beyond the fellowship period. Fellows become part of the prestigious Humboldt Network comprising over 25,000 academics worldwide, gaining lifelong connections and access to alumni programs that support future research collaborations, return fellowships, and continued professional development.
Benefits of the Scholarship
This scholarship provides comprehensive support including:
- Monthly fellowship stipend:
- Postdocs: €2,700 per month
- Experienced Researchers: €3,200 per month
- Family allowances for accompanying spouses/partners and children (if family accompanies fellow for more than 3 months)
- Intensive German language course for fellows and partners immediately before research stay
- Lump sum for international travel expenses (one-time round-trip ticket)
- Research cost allowance for host institute (€800/month for natural sciences/engineering; €500/month for humanities/social sciences)
- Private comprehensive health insurance subsidy
- Flexible start date (can begin within 12 months after selection decision)
- Lifelong alumni support including return fellowships and future research visits to Germany
- Freedom to choose your own research institution and host in Germany
- Other benefits
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Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for this scholarship, applicants must:
- Be a non-German citizen
- Hold a research doctorate (PhD) or equivalent academic qualification
For Postdoctoral Fellowship:
- Completed doctorate within the last 4 years (or within 6 months of completion with written summary of findings available)
- Published in academic journals and publishing houses reviewed according to international standards
For Experienced Researchers Fellowship:
- Completed doctorate within the last 12 years
- Have extensive publication record in internationally reviewed academic journals and publishing houses
- Demonstrate independent research profile with own clearly recognizable research trajectory
- Typically working at level of assistant professor, junior research group leader, or have several years of independent scientific work
Residency Requirements:
- Must NOT have lived in Germany for longer than 6 months total within the 18-month period prior to application submission
- If currently in Germany, must apply immediately as eligibility assessed only after submission
Language Requirements:
- Natural sciences and engineering: Good knowledge of German or English
- Humanities, social sciences: Good knowledge of German if necessary for research; otherwise good English sufficient
- Medicine: Good knowledge of German if working with patients; otherwise good English sufficient
Additional Requirements:
- Have secured a German academic host willing to provide mentoring agreement, confirmation of research facilities, and detailed review
- Provide two expert reviews (for postdocs: from doctoral supervisor and one other researcher; for experienced researchers: from collaborative partners and/or researchers from own and other institutes)
- Must abide by rules of good scientific practice
Note: Kindly check the official website for full and complete requirements.
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Selection Criteria
Selection is based on academic excellence (career trajectory, publication quality in internationally reviewed venues, academic productivity), research quality (originality and innovative potential of proposed research, significance for field development, clear methodology and feasibility), independent research profile (particularly for experienced researchers – sole authorship publications, diverse topics, clear academic establishment), and future potential (career prospects, academic development trajectory). The peer review process evaluates individual life journeys and considers career breaks for parenting, care responsibilities, or other circumstances. Applications returning to previous supervisors or research environments are typically rejected due to lack of independent development. Complete applications take 4-8 months to process with 20-25% approval rate.
How to Apply
CLICK HERE to visit the official webpage and submit your application
