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2026 Georg Forster Research Fellowship in Germany | Fully Funded

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2026 Georg Forster Research Fellowship

Are you an ambitious researcher from a developing or transition country looking for a fully funded opportunity to advance your research in Germany? The Georg Forster Research Fellowship, funded by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, offers outstanding postdoctoral and experienced researchers the chance to conduct high-impact research in a world-class academic environment.

With generous financial support, travel allowances, family benefits, and access to cutting-edge facilities, this prestigious fellowship enables scholars to focus on research that contributes to sustainable development while building international collaborations.

If you aspire to join a global network of leading scientists and make meaningful contributions to your home country, this fellowship is your ideal opportunity. Read on to discover all the details, including eligibility, benefits, and application steps.

Georg Forster Research Fellowship Summary

  • Host Country: Germany
  • Scholarship Category: Masters Scholarships | PhD Scholarships
  • Eligible Countries: All Countries
  • Scholarship Benefits: Monthly Stipend (€2,700 – €3,200) + Health Insurance + Living Allowance, etc.
  • Application Deadline: October 30, 2025

About the Georg Forster Research Fellowship

The Georg Forster Research Fellowship supports postdoctoral and experienced researchers from developing and transition countries by providing them with the resources and mentorship needed to conduct independent research in Germany. The program is designed to foster scientific excellence while promoting research that addresses global challenges in fields such as climate change, public health, and technological development.

Fellowship Highlights

  • Flexible Duration: 6 to 24 months, with the option to split the research stay into three separate periods over three years.
  • All Academic Disciplines: Open to scholars from all research fields, with an emphasis on interdisciplinary and sustainable development research.
  • Host Institution Requirement: Applicants must secure a host institution in Germany and receive a commitment from a professor or researcher to provide necessary research facilities.
  • Multiple Application Cycles: Deadlines in February, June, and October 2025, giving applicants multiple chances to apply.

Scholarship Benefits

The Georg Forster Research Fellowship provides comprehensive financial and academic support, ensuring that fellows can fully dedicate themselves to their research.

Financial Support

  • Monthly Stipend:
    • €2,700 for postdoctoral researchers
    • €3,200 for experienced researchers
  • Research Subsidy: Additional funding to support research-related expenses.
  • Travel Allowance: Covers round-trip travel costs between the fellow’s home country and Germany.
  • German Language Training: Funding for German language courses to ease integration.
  • Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical coverage throughout the research stay.
  • Family Benefits: Financial support for accompanying spouses and children.
  • Alumni Networking: Access to an elite network of Georg Forster fellows and career development opportunities.

These fully funded benefits ensure that researchers can focus solely on their work without financial concerns.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Georg Forster Research Fellowship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Who Can Apply?

  • Nationality: Must be a citizen of a developing or transition country (excluding China and India).
  • Academic Qualifications:
    • Postdoctoral Researchers: PhD completed within the last four years or near completion.
    • Experienced Researchers: PhD completed within the last twelve years with an established research career.
  • Research Relevance: The proposed research must contribute to sustainable development in the applicant’s home country.
  • Publication Record: A strong academic background, demonstrated by peer-reviewed journal publications.
  • Host Institution: Must secure a commitment from a German professor or research institute willing to host the fellow.
  • Language Skills: Proficiency in English or German (a language certificate may be required).

Why Apply for the Georg Forster Research Fellowship?

This fellowship goes beyond financial support—it opens doors to cutting-edge research, international collaborations, and long-term career growth.

Key Advantages

  • Fully Funded Research Stay: Conduct research in Germany’s top institutions without financial stress.
  • World-Class Facilities: Access state-of-the-art labs, libraries, and academic resources.
  • Global Network of Scholars: Collaborate with renowned researchers and join an exclusive alumni community.
  • Career Advancement: Boost your academic credentials and establish long-term partnerships with German research institutions.
  • Impact on Home Country: Use your research to drive sustainable change and contribute to scientific and technological advancements in your country.

How to Apply for the Georg Forster Research Fellowship?

Step 1: Prepare Your Application Documents

You must submit the following documents via the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation online portal:

  • Updated CV (max 2 pages)
  • Research Proposal (max 5 pages) detailing objectives, methodology, and expected impact
  • List of Publications (formatted according to the official template)
  • Doctoral Certificate (or official proof of PhD completion)
  • Host’s Statement confirming research collaboration and facility access
  • Two Expert Reviews from referees familiar with your academic work
  • German Language Certificate (if applicable)

Step 2: Secure a Host Institution in Germany

Identify a German research institution in your field and obtain a commitment letter from a professor or researcher willing to supervise your research.

Step 3: Submit Your Online Application

  • Apply through the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation portal before the February, June, or October 2025 deadlines.
  • The evaluation process typically takes 4-8 months.

Step 4: Await the Decision & Plan Your Research

  • If selected, you must begin your research in Germany within 2-12 months from the decision date.
  • You will receive guidance from the foundation to facilitate a smooth transition.

Click here to Get Admission or Scholarship Statement of Purpose/Motivation Letter from a Professional.

2026 Georg Forster Research Fellowship

2026 Georg Forster Research Fellowship

2026 Georg Forster Research Fellowship

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