2023/2024 FUNDING YOUR RESEARCH IN GERMANY Grants, fellowships and awards for international PhD students and researchers

FUNDING YOUR RESEARCH IN GERMANY Grants, fellowships and awards for international PhD students and researchers 2023/2024 3

Germany is a great place for research. Become part of a large international research community and benefit from various funding opportunities for international researchers! We have compiled this brochure to help you find the right programme to finance your research stay as a PhD student, postdoc or established researcher. It contains a selection of the most important funding opportunities and information about how and where you can apply. The tables at the beginning of our brochure provide an overview of the funding programmes so that you can see which would best match your needs. At the end of the brochure you will find a convenient list of all the funding organisations and their programmes together in one place. Links give you access to additional information about the programmes or to application websites. Please check there for details of the application procedure. Bear in mind that there are many more funding opportunities for your research stay, e.g. programmes intended for researchers in specific fields or that only support a small number of individuals. Take a look at the databases at the end of this brochure to learn more. For additional information, we recommend you contact the respective funding organisation. We wish you every success! Your “Research in Germany”-Team Details of these and more programmes are also available online: www.research-in-germany.org/funding-programmes 5 5

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TYPE OF FUNDING TYPE OF DOCTORATE PAGE Grant/ scholarship Work contract* Individual doctoral project Structured doc- toral programme 21 22 30 36 37 38 41 42 44 52 69 53 56 57 58 59 61 * Provided by a university/non-university research institution 9

TYPE OF FUNDING CAREER LEVEL/FUNDED POSITION PAGE Fellowship/ grant Work contract* Funding** Postdoctoral researcher Junior research group leader Junior professor 20 21 22 23 66 67 68 24 29 30 33 35 39 40 42 45 48 49 51 70 54 55 60 61 62 * Provided by a university/non-university research institution ** Often includes the researcher's own salary and expenses for staff and consumables 11

TYPE OF FUNDING CAREER LEVEL/FUNDED POSITION PAGE Fellowship/ award Work contract* Funding** Experienced researcher Research group leader Professor 19 20 22 65 68 24 25 26 27 28 29 31 32 34 35 39 42 43 46 47 50 54 55 60 * Provided by a university/non-university research institution ** Often includes the researcher's own salary and expenses for staff and consumables 13

ALEXANDER VON HUMBOLDT FOUNDATION The Alexander von Humboldt Foundation supports cooperation between outstanding international and German researchers. To this end it awards more than 2,300 research scholarships and prizes every year, including the renowned Alexander von Humboldt Professorship. One special feature is the world-spanning Humboldt Foundation Network that offers lifelong networking, as well as renewed funding and support. This alumni network is made up of over 31,000 Humboldtians, including 57 Nobel Prize winners. info@avh.de, www.humboldt-foundation.de GERMAN ACADEMIC EXCHANGE SERVICE The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is the world’s largest funding organisation for the international exchange of students and researchers. Since its foundation the DAAD has supported approx. 2.8 million scholars at home and abroad. The members of this largely publicly-funded association are German higher education institutions and student bodies. postmaster@daad.de, www.daad.de DEUTSCHE FORSCHUNGSGEMEINSCHAFT The Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (German Research Foundation, DFG) is the central research funding organisation in Germany. With an annual budget of 3.6 billion euros, it finances approx. 32,000 research projects at higher education and public research institutions in Germany. The DFG is an independent, self- governing organisation for science and research. The focus is on funding projects developed by the academic community itself in the area of knowledge-driven re- search. It serves all branches of science and the humanities. Any postdoctoral researcher at a German research institution can apply to the DFG for funding for his or her research. info-researchcareers@dfg.de, www.dfg.de 15 15

FRAUNHOFER-GESELLSCHAFT The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft is one of the world’s leading organisations for applied research. The currently 76 independent institutes of this association cover a wide range of fields, including health and environment, security and protection, communication and knowledge, transport and mobility, energy and resources as well as production and the provision of services. Fraunhofer works mainly on behalf of contractors in industry or the public sector. info@zv.fraunhofer.de, www.fraunhofer.com HELMHOLTZ ASSOCIATION Helmholtz is Germany’s largest scientific organisation. Its 18 research centers run some of the most important large-scale research facilities and scientific infrastructures in Europe. Helmholtz focuses on six research fields: energy, earth and environment, health, information, matter, and aeronautics, space and trans- port. The Helmholtz centers cover the entire spectrum from basic to application-oriented research. org@helmholtz.de, www.helmholtz.de LEIBNIZ ASSOCIATION The Leibniz Association connects 97 independent research institutions that range in focus from the natural, engineering and environmental sciences to economic, spatial and social sciences and the humanities. Leibniz Institutes address issues of social, economic and ecological relevance and provide advice to policy-makers, academia, business and the public. They conduct knowledge-driven and applied basic research, maintain scientific infrastructure and provide research-based services. international@leibniz-association.eu, www.leibniz-association.eu MAX-PLANCK-GESELLSCHAFT The Max Planck Society for the Advancement of Science is one of Germany’s largest independent, non-profit research organisations. More than 13,000 researchers, postdocs, PhD students, scholarship holders and visiting researchers at 86 Max Planck institutes and research facilities conduct basic research in the natural sciences, life sciences, social sciences and humanities. The focus is on innovative research fields that are especially demanding in terms of funding or time requirements. www.mpg.de 17

E s t a b l i s h e d r e s e a r c h e r s Alexander von Humboldt Professorship IN BRIEF Winners of this most highly-endowed research award in Germany are honoured for their outstanding research record and can carry out long-term and groundbreak- ing research at a university or research institute in Germany. By 2024, up to 30 additional Alexander von Humboldt Pro- fessorships will be created in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). Scientists from all disciplines can be nominated for these, provided their work relates to the research and use of AI and its impacts on society. WHO CAN APPLY? A nomination can only be made in favour of established researchers with exceptional qualifications who live and work outside Germany are eligible to be appointed to full professorships in Germany are internationally recognised as leaders in their research field can also be expected to complete further cutting-edge research in the future FURTHER REQUIREMENTS The Alexander von Humboldt Profes- sorship is expected to contribute to the internationalisation of forward- looking research areas in Germany. In addition, it should lead to achieve synergy effects in the development and structure of the host institution. The host institution must guarantee that the necessary infrastructure is available to carry out the award winner’s research. Nominating institutions must explain how they intend to continue the award winner’s long-term affiliation to their institution beyond the fund- ing period. TYPE AND EXTENT OF FUNDING Funding of 5 million euros for researchers in experimental disciplines, 3.5 million euros for researchers in theoretical disciplines. Award winners may take up to 180,000 euros per year from the award funds as their personal income. DURATION 5 years. APPLICATION It is not possible for researchers to apply themselves; nominations can only be made by German universities or non- university research institutions jointly with German universities. For specific informa- tion please check the programme website (see link below). www.humboldt-foundation.de > Sponsorship programmes 19

P h D s t u d e n t s P o s t d o c s / E a r l y c a r e e r r e s e a r c h e r s Collaborative Research Centres TYPE AND EXTENT OF FUNDING Work contract that offers a salary based on the collective agreement for public sector employees of the German states (65% to 100% full-time equivalent position). DURATION Work contracts are limited to a maximum of 4 years. APPLICATION CRCs usually advertise vacancies publicly, and the details can be found on their websites. Applications should be submitted to the coordinator of the respective CRC. An up-to-date list of all CRCs is available on the programme website (see link below). IN BRIEF Collaborative Research Centres (CRCs, Sonderforschungsbereiche) can offer PhD students and early career researchers opportunities to pursue an outstanding research programme that crosses the boundaries of disciplines, institutes, departments and faculties. The relevant university may also offer further op por- tunities for training its doctoral researchers, for example within a structured doctoral programme. Highly qualified and renowned postdoctoral researchers can also take on the leadership of a project or a junior professor ship within a CRC. WHO CAN APPLY? PhD students and early career researchers with an outstanding university degree equivalent to a German master’s d egree or doctorate in a relevant subject excellent English language skills www.dfg.de/sfb/en www.dfg.de/en > Service > Jobs@dfg 21

P o s t d o c s / E a r l y c a r e e r r e s e a r c h e r s Emmy Noether Programme IN BRIEF Outstanding early career researchers can rapidly qualify for leading positions in science and research or for a university teaching career by heading an independ- ent junior research group and assuming relevant teaching duties. WHO CAN APPLY? Postdocs and professors at an early stage of their careers who hold a temporary post with an excellent research project at least 2 years and up to a maximum of 4 years (medical researchers: up to 6 years) of postdoctoral experience substantial international research experience FURTHER REQUIREMENTS International applicants are eligible if they intend to continue their research career in Germany after the end of the funding period. TYPE AND EXTENT OF FUNDING Funding for an independent junior research group covering expenses for staff and consumables necessary to complete the project during the funding period. This also includes funding for the employment of the research group leader based on the pay scale for re- searchers (depending on the German state, university and the fellow’s status). A family allowance of up to 6,000 euros per year may be requested. DURATION Generally 6 years. APPLICATION Proposals can be submitted to the DFG at any time. Applications are submitted via an online application portal. You will find information about the application procedure on the programme website (see link below). www.dfg.de/emmy_noether/en 23

E s t a b l i s h e d r e s e a r c h e r s Fraunhofer-Bessel Research Award FURTHER REQUIREMENTS The nominee must not yet have entered permanent employment in Germany at the time of selection. TYPE AND EXTENT OF FUNDING Award of 45,000 euros. DURATION 6 to 12 months. The research stay can be divided into blocks. APPLICATION Nominations can be submitted at any time. It is not possible for researchers to apply themselves; nominations can only be made by the heads of institutes or established researchers at Fraunhofer institutes. IN BRIEF Award winners are honoured for their achievements in the field of applied research and are invited to conduct a research project of their own choice with fellow experts at one of the Fraunhofer institutes in Germany. WHO CAN APPLY? A nomination can only be made in favour of established researchers who have predominantly lived and worked outside Germany for at least 5 years completed their doctorate less than 18 years ago are recognised internationally as outstanding researchers in their field of applied research are expected to continue producing cutting-edge research and have a lasting impact beyond their area of specialisation www.humboldt-foundation.de > Sponsorship programmes 25

E s t a b l i s h e d r e s e a r c h e r s Funding of first-time professorial appointments of excellent women scientists IN BRIEF This programme supports women seeking their first appointment to a W2- or W3-level professorship in cooperation with a partner university. It is aimed at rising stars from both Germany and abroad. WHO CAN APPLY? Women scientists who demonstrate outstanding scientific performance and are about to become a scientific leader in their field who will be appointed for the first time to the W2 or W3 professorship level from a junior professorship, Young Investigator Group leadership position or other post-doctoral position (current position should correspond to the level R3 – Established Researcher of the European Commission’s research profile descriptors) who are currently in a fixed-term, Helmholtz-external professorship and are to be recruited to a permanent position at Helmholtz with outstanding qualifications, documented by such accomplishments as an ERC Starting Grant or comparable funding whose research profile complements that of the respective Helmholtz center and the research programme TYPE AND EXTENT OF FUNDING Funding amounts to 200,000 euros per scientist and year. It can be used to finance the position of the woman scientist, the members of her research group and relevant equipment. The Helmholtz center and partner university are expected to provide substantial additional financial resources. DURATION Funding will be provided for permanent appointments. APPLICATION Candidates must apply directly to the respective Helmholtz center. You will find details of the application procedure, the application forms and the deadline on the calls-for-application website. www.helmholtz.de > Research > Current calls 27

P o s t d o c s / E a r l y c a r e e r r e s e a r c h e r s E s t a b l i s h e d r e s e a r c h e r s Georg Forster Research Fellowship IN BRIEF Early career and experienced researchers with above-average qualifications from developing and transition countries can carry out a research project in cooperation with an academic host of their choice in Germany. The research project must deal with issues of relevance to the future development of the candidate’s country or region of origin. WHO CAN APPLY? Researchers with citizenship of or principal place of residence and work in a developing country, emerging economy or transition state (excluding the People’s Republic of China and India) a doctorate or comparable academic qualification completed fewer than 4 years (postdocs) or 12 years (experi- enced researchers) previously academic publications that have been peer-reviewed according to interna- tional standards (postdocs) their own, clearly-defined research profile documented by a compre- hensive list of academic publications that have been peer-reviewed according to international standards (ex perienced researchers) several years of independent research experience (experienced researchers) a good knowledge of German or English FURTHER REQUIREMENTS Applicants must present confirmation that research facilities are available, as well as a mentoring agreement and a detailed expert’s statement by an academic host at a research institution in Germany. TYPE AND EXTENT OF FUNDING Fellowship of 2,670 euros (postdocs) or 3 ,170 euros (experienced researcher) per month plus language course, travel expenses, family allowance, extensive alumni sponsorship and allowance for research costs (for the host institution). DURATION 6 to 24 months (postdocs) or 6 to 18 months (experienced researchers); the fellowship for experienced researchers can be divided up into a maximum of 3 stays. APPLICATION Applications can be submitted online at any time. You can access the online application form on the programme website (see link below). www.humboldt-foundation.de > Sponsorship programmes 29

E s t a b l i s h e d r e s e a r c h e r s Heisenberg Programme IN BRIEF Excellent researchers can prepare for a leading position in science and research and spend time working on an advanced research topic at an institution of their choice. The Heisenberg Programme allows applicants to choose between a Heisen- berg fellowship, a Heisenberg position, a Heisenberg temporary substitute position for clinicians and a Heisenberg professor- ship. WHO CAN APPLY? Researchers, e.g. holding mid-level faculty positions, junior research group leaders and professors at an early stage of their careers holding a temporary post who qualify for a professorship by holding a postdoctoral habilitation degree or equivalent qualification have proven themselves by carrying out particularly outstanding research are expected to have the potential to gain further qualifications as university teachers www.dfg.de/heisenberg/en FURTHER REQUIREMENTS The research project must be of high academic quality and originality and meet international standards. Those who choose the Heisenberg professorship must find a German university that agrees to continue funding of the position when DFG funding expires. TYPE AND EXTENT OF FUNDING Fellowship of 4,450 euros per month, an allowance for direct project costs and a childcare allowance; employment contract for a position, substitute position for clinicians or professorship with a basic monthly salary based on the pay scale for researchers or professors (depending on the German state, university and the fellow’s status). Flexible research funding as well as travel and foreign allowances may be requested. DURATION Maximum of 5 years. APPLICATION Applications can be submitted to the DFG at any time. There is a special online application portal for this pur- pose. You will find information about the application procedure on the programme website (see link below). 31

P o s t d o c s / E a r l y c a r e e r r e s e a r c h e r s Helmholtz Young Investigator Groups TYPE AND EXTENT OF FUNDING Funding amounts to a minimum of 300,000 euros per year, including expenses for materials, supplies and investments as well as work contracts for the group leader and for scientific or technical staff (3 on average). Half of the funding comes from the hosting Helmholtz center, the other half is provided by Helmholtz. DURATION 5 years with an option of a permanent position in case of a positive evaluation. APPLICATION Candidates must apply directly to the respective Helmholtz center, which can be contacted throughout the year. Further information about the programme and the link to the current call can be found on the website (see link below). IN BRIEF Helmholtz Young Investigator Groups offer internationally outstanding postdoctoral researchers early independence and the opportunity to set up and lead their own research group under excellent conditions at a Helmholtz center. Leaders of Helmholtz Young Investigator Groups are offered a long- term career perspective and tailored leadership training. They work closely with a university partner and have the opportunity to gain teaching experience and the qualifications for a professorship. Young Investigator Groups are funded in all research fields of the Helmholtz Association: energy, earth and environment, health, information, matter, and aeronautics, space and transport. WHO CAN APPLY? Postdocs who have outstanding academic achievements have substantial international re- search experience are between 2 and 6 years of academic age www.helmholtz.de > Careers > Careers at Helmholtz 33

P o s t d o c s / E a r l y c a r e e r r e s e a r c h e r s E s t a b l i s h e d r e s e a r c h e r s Humboldt Research Fellowship IN BRIEF Early career and established researchers from abroad in all disciplines can carry out their own long-term research project in collaboration with an academic host of their choice at a research institution in Germany. WHO CAN APPLY? Researchers who do not live and work in Germany have a doctorate or a comparable academic qualification completed fewer than 4 years (postdocs) or 12 years (experienced researchers) previously have academic publications that were peer-reviewed according to inter- national standards (postdocs) or already have their own research profile documented by a comprehen- sive list of academic publications that have been peer-reviewed according to international standards (experienced researchers) have several years of independent research experience (experienced researchers) have a good knowledge of German or English FURTHER REQUIREMENTS Applicants must present a confirmation that research facilities are available, as well as a mentoring agreement and a detailed expert’s statement by an academic host at a research institution in Germany. TYPE AND EXTENT OF FUNDING Fellowship of 2,650 euros per month (postdocs) or 3,150 euros per month (experienced researchers) plus language course, travel expenses, family allowances, extensive alumni sponsorship and allowance for research costs (for the host institution). DURATION 6 to 24 months (postdocs) resp. 6 to 18 months (experienced researchers), the fellowship for experienced researchers can be divided up into a maximum of 3 blocks within 3 years. APPLICATION Researchers from Brazil can only apply for a Capes-Humboldt Research Fellowship. Applications can be submitted online at any time. You can access the online application form on the programme website (see link below). www.humboldt-foundation.de > Sponsorship programmes 35

P h D s t u d e n t s Individual Doctoral Projects at Leibniz Institutes IN BRIEF PhD students can complete a doctorate while working in an excellent inter- disciplinary research environment at a Leibniz institute. They are supervised in collaboration with partner universities. WHO CAN APPLY? PhD students with an outstanding university degree equivalent to a German master’s degree the ability to conduct independent research teamworking and communication skills a good knowledge of English TYPE AND EXTENT OF FUNDING Work contract (usually part-time) with a salary based on the collective agreement for public sector employees of the German states (currently approx. 4,400 euros per month gross for a full-time position.) DURATION Generally 2 to 3 years with possible extension of up to 1 to 2 years. APPLICATION Applications should be submitted to the respective Leibniz institute. Vacancies and closing dates are advertised on the websites of the individual institutes or on the job exchange (see link below). www.leibniz-association.eu > Careers www.leibniz-association.eu > Institutes & Museums 37

P o s t d o c s / E a r l y c a r e e r r e s e a r c h e r s E s t a b l i s h e d r e s e a r c h e r s Initiation of International Collaboration IN BRIEF This programme serves to establish collaborative relationships between international partners. Researchers can explore opportunities for international collaboration or prepare a concrete joint research project. The programme funds bilateral workshops, trips abroad and guest visits. WHO CAN APPLY? Early career and established researchers who hold a doctorate are working at a German research institution (in Germany or abroad) can outline the basis for the research benefit of the project as well as the concrete objective and added value created by the international collaboration TYPE AND EXTENT OF FUNDING Grant including allowances for participation in bilateral workshops in Germany or in the partner country. Support is provided for guest visits based on actual needs; in addition, allowances are also paid for travel abroad. DURATION Maximum of 3 months for trips abroad and guest visits; all activities must take place within 12 months. APPLICATION Applications can be submitted to the DFG at any time. There is a special online ap plication portal for this purpose. You will find information about the application procedure on the programme website (see link below). www.dfg.de/international_collaboration 39

P h D s t u d e n t s International Max Planck Research Schools IN BRIEF PhD students can complete a doctorate in a structured programme that provides ex- cellent research conditions. The 68 Inter- national Max Planck Research Schools (IMPRS) are jointly managed by Max Planck institutes and universities. The principal component of the 3-year study programme is the doctoral thesis repre- senting a major piece of independent re- search, mainly on an interdisciplinary topic. WHO CAN APPLY? PhD students with an outstanding university degree equivalent to a German master’s or bachelor’s degree an academic qualification in an appropriate subject for the respective research institute relevant research experience excellent English language skills TYPE AND EXTENT OF FUNDING Work contract with a salary based on the collective agreement for public sector employees; PhD students currently receive approx. 2,700 euros per month gross. Depending on personal profile and research area, higher remuneration is possible within the framework of a re- cruitment allowance. In addition, there is a special annual bonus. An (inter- national) research stay may be subsi- dised. DURATION 3 years with possible extension of 1 year. APPLICATION Applications must be submitted to the respective IMPRS. Vacancies and application deadlines are advertised on the websites of the respective institutes or research schools (see link below). www.imprs.mpg.de www.mpg.de/en > Career > Jobboard 41

E s t a b l i s h e d r e s e a r c h e r s International Visiting Scholars at Leibniz Institutes DURATION Dependent on the host institute. The duration varies and visits can start at any time. APPLICATION Applications must be submitted directly to the respective Leibniz institute. Please feel free to contact the Leibniz institutes of your choice to enquire whether they host international visiting scholars. In addition, you will find information about positions and application deadlines on the Leibniz job portal linked below. IN BRIEF Established researchers can conduct research at a Leibniz institute in Germany that relates to their specific field of interest. The respective Leibniz institute will host the scholar and support his or her research in order to strengthen cooperation and promote networking between Leibniz institutes and their international partners. WHO CAN APPLY? Established researchers with outstanding qualifications acknowledged research experience TYPE AND EXTENT OF FUNDING Work contract or fellowship (depending on the financial resources of the host institute). www.leibniz-association.eu > Careers www.leibniz-association.eu > Institutes 43

P o s t d o c s / E a r l y c a r e e r r e s e a r c h e r s Leibniz Junior Research Groups DURATION 5 years. APPLICATION Calls can be found on the Leibniz Association’s website (see link below). Candidates are asked to contact the Leibniz institute of their choice with a draft of their application to discuss their project and its fit within the institute’s research strategy. IN BRIEF Leibniz Junior Research Groups offer talented and promising early career researchers an opportunity to conduct independent research, employ their own staff and work with excellent equipment and infrastructures. Successful candidates are enabled to set up their own research group in the inspiring research environment of a Leibniz institute. WHO CAN APPLY? Postdoctoral researchers who have completed their doctorate no longer than 5 years ago (exceptions apply) have proven outstanding academic achievements in their field and are planning to conduct an independent research project TYPE AND EXTENT OF FUNDING Funding: successful candidates will receive funding of up to 1.7 million euros. The funding goes towards the establishment of a junior research group with personnel costs (group leader, 2 to 3 doctoral can didates or postdoc group members) and adequate equipment and facilities. www.leibniz-association.eu > Careers 45

E s t a b l i s h e d r e s e a r c h e r s Lichtenberg Endowed Professorships IN BRIEF The Lichtenberg Endowed Professorship gives researchers with outstanding qualifications the opportunity to pursue highly innovative developments in con- temporary areas of research at a university in Germany. They can define forward- looking and even high-risk subjects, which should also be followed up in an interdis- ciplinary way if possible, and implement new teaching strategies. WHO CAN APPLY? Applications can be submitted by outstanding researchers at the level of an associate (W2) or full (W3) professor in innovative fields of research in all disciplines and of all nationalities The programme is especially aimed at returning German researchers or ap plicants from outside Germany. FURTHER REQUIREMENTS A major criterion for the award of the Endowed Professorship is the conceptual and structural strategy of the university at which the professorship is to be based. The Endowed Professorship must be established at a German university. TYPE AND EXTENT OF FUNDING Funding: each professorship will be endowed with capital of at least 5 million euros. The Volkswagen Foundation and, if applicable, one of the foundations affiliated to the Stifterverband will each provide starting capital of 1 million euros per professorship. An additional 3 million euros must be raised by the German uni versity. At least the professor- ship must be financed out of income earned from the capital. DURATION The amount is paid at one time. Support is provided for 5 years. The professorship is permanent. APPLICATION You can apply at any time. An application must be submitted jointly with the university. www.volkswagenstiftung.de > Funding 47

P o s t d o c s / E a r l y c a r e e r r e s e a r c h e r s Max Planck Grants for Advanced Postdoctoral Training DURATION Work contracts have a usual duration up to 4 years. APPLICATION Positions are advertised in scientific journals (and in international publications), on the Max Planck job exchange or on the website of the respective institute (see links below). It is also possible to take the initiative and contact the respective MPI directly. IN BRIEF Early career researchers can gain additional knowledge and skills at a Max Planck institute on the basis of their prior professional qualifications. WHO CAN APPLY? Postdocs with an outstanding doctorate in a relevant field completed up to 10 years ago at least 2 years of research experience TYPE AND EXTENT OF FUNDING Work contract with a salary based on the collective agreement for public sector em- ployees. The salary is agreed depending on personal profile and research project. Under certain conditions, a scholarship is also possible. www.mpg.de/en > Career > Jobboard www.mpg.de/en > Research > Institutes 49

P o s t d o c s / E a r l y c a r e e r r e s e a r c h e r s DURATION 5 years with two possible extensions of up to 2 years each. APPLICATION Application on advertisement only. Positions at specific institutes are advertised throughout the year. Central advertisements are normally published once a year. All positions are advertised in scientific journals and on their websites as well as on the websites of the respective institutes (see links below). Max Planck Research Group Leader IN BRIEF Excellent postdocs can conduct independ- ent research work at a Max Planck institute by establishing their own Max Planck Research Group. Candidates receive their own fixed budget to run their research group, in which PhD students and one postdoc work together on a specific research topic. WHO CAN APPLY? Highly qualified postdocs who have viable and innovative ideas have ideally already had one to two postdoctoral positions are in a position to realise an independ- ent research project TYPE AND EXTENT OF FUNDING Funding and work contract. The level of funding depends on the respective research area and research focus. It covers funding for staff, materials and operating costs, including the res earcher’s own salary (associate professorship – W2 position). www.mpg.de/en > Career > Research groups leaders www.mpg.de/en > Career > Jobboard 51

P h D s t u d e n t s PhD Fellowships IN BRIEF The Boehringer Ingelheim Fonds (BIF) awards PhD Fellowships to outstanding early career researchers who wish to carry out an ambitious scientific PhD project in basic biomedical research at an inter- nationally leading laboratory. WHO CAN APPLY? Applications for BIF PhD Fellowships can be submitted by European citizens work- ing in Europe or overseas as well as by non-European citizens pursuing their PhD projects in Europe. The PhD projects must be experimental, in the field of basic bio- medical research and aimed at elucidating basic biological phenomena and acquiring new scientific knowledge. FURTHER REQUIREMENTS Fellows are selected by the renowned scientists comprising the Foundation’s Board of Trustees. They make their decision on the basis of specialist exter- nal reports and personal interviews. The process is highly competitive. A suc- cessful PhD Fellowship application must therefore be outstanding in terms of the candidate’s achievements to date, as well as the scientific quality of the proposed research project and host laboratory. www.bifonds.de TYPE AND EXTENT OF FUNDING Monthly stipend plus a flat-rate for re- search-related costs of 150 euros and coun- try-related premiums (e.g. 2,100 euros in total in Germany). In addition to this: personal support financial support for international scientific conferences, courses and laboratory co-operations family allowances (e.g. spouse and child care allowances) scientific seminars to discuss the fellow’s own scientific projects communication training worldwide network of fellows and alumni DURATION 2 years. Maximum extension: 18 months. APPLICATION You will find information about the application procedure on the programme website (see link below). 53

P o s t d o c s / E a r l y c a r e e r r e s e a r c h e r s E s t a b l i s h e d r e s e a r c h e r s Research Grants IN BRIEF Early career and established researchers can realise a research project on a defined subject within a limited period of time. The programme provides support in modu lar form for direct project costs, project- specific staff and the equipment required to carry out the project. Depend- ing on the project, it is possible to apply for funding for your own position as a spe- cific funding module, for assistants’ positions or for a visiting researcher. WHO CAN APPLY? Researchers in all career stages who hold a doctorate are working at a German research institution (in Germany or abroad) have a research project of high academic quality and originality that meets international standards FURTHER REQUIREMENTS If applying for one’s own position, the applicants must be supported by a statement from a German host institution indicating that it will assume employer responsibilities during the funding period and, in cooperation with the applicant, provide the necessary conditions to carry out the research project. TYPE AND EXTENT OF FUNDING Funding depends on the specific proposal modules and on the actual project needs. The work contract for the project leader’s own position is generally based on the collective agreement for public sector employees. DURATION The duration of funding is based on the individual project needs (as a rule, up to 3 years). APPLICATION Applications can be submitted to the DFG at any time. There is a special online appli- cation portal for this purpose. You will find information about the application procedure on the programme website (see link below). www.dfg.de/research_grants 55

P h D s t u d e n t s Research Grants – Doctoral Programmes in Germany IN BRIEF International PhD students can realise a doctoral project (individually or in a structured programme) at a state or state-recognised university or non- university research institution in Germany. WHO CAN APPLY? PhD students with an excellent university degree equiva- lent to a German master’s degree a convincing and well-planned research project or course of continuing education FURTHER REQUIREMENTS The doctorate must have been begun within the last 3 years. TYPE AND EXTENT OF FUNDING Grant of 861 to 1,200 euros per month (depending on qualifications) plus additional allowances, such as health, accident and personal liability insurance contributions, a possible travel subsidy, a research allowance and language course. DURATION Up to 4 years. APPLICATION Applications must be submitted online through the DAAD portal. You can access the application portal through the scholarship database. Some documents need to be sent separately by post. Application details vary from country to country. For country-specific in- formation on addresses and deadlines please check the programme website. www.funding-guide.de (please use the filters to narrow down your search) 57

P h D s t u d e n t s Research Training Groups IN BRIEF Research Training Groups (Graduierten- kollegs) offer a structured PhD programme relating to an innovative, peer-reviewed research topic. A tailor-made curriculum including soft skill courses prepare doctoral researchers for the complexities of the job market in science and beyond and support early scientific independence. Postdoctoral researchers can also take on the leadership of a project. WHO CAN APPLY? PhD students with an outstanding university degree equivalent to a German master’s degree in a relevant subject excellent English language skills FURTHER REQUIREMENTS Specific requirements are laid down by each individual Research Training Group and project and the university’s doctoral regulations. TYPE AND EXTENT OF FUNDING Work contract that offers a salary based on the collective agreement for public-sector employees of the German states (65% to 100% full-time equivalent position). DURATION Work contracts are usually limited to 3 to 4 years. APPLICATION Research Training Groups usually advertise vacancies publicly, and the details can be found on their websites. Applications should be submitted to the coordinator of the respective Research Training Group. You will find an up-to-date list of all Research Training Groups on the programme website (see link below). www.dfg.de/gk/en www.dfg.de/en > Service > Jobs@dfg 59

P h D s t u d e n t s P o s t d o c s / E a r l y c a r e e r r e s e a r c h e r s Travel Grants IN BRIEF The Boehringer Ingelheim Fonds (BIF) awards travel grants to PhD students and postdoctoral researchers from all over the world. WHO CAN APPLY? PhD students who obtained their university entrance qualification not more than 11 years ago; in the case of postdocs, this qualification must not have been obtained more than 13 years prior to the planned research visit. FURTHER REQUIREMENTS The BIF supports doctoral and postdoctoral researchers who are conducting experimental projects in basic biomedical research and wish to pursue short-term research stays or attend practical courses relevant to their projects in Europe or overseas. TYPE AND EXTENT OF FUNDING BIF’s travel grants (lump sum) help cover the expenses for travel, lodging (e.g. student housing) and course fees. For doctoral students and postdoc applicants from countries with very low incomes, additional funds for living costs may be granted. DURATION Up to 3 months. APPLICATION Applications must be submitted to BIF 6 weeks at the latest but no earlier than 6 months prior to the planned date of departure. www.bifonds.de > Fellowships & grants 61

E s t a b l i s h e d r e s e a r c h e r s ERC Advanced Grants IN BRIEF Established researchers of any nationality can carry out research projects at the frontiers of knowledge at a host institution (university, research institution, company or international organisation) in Germany (or other EU member state or associated country). Applications can be made in any field of research. WHO CAN APPLY? Established leading researchers with an outstanding track-record of signifi- cant research achievements in the last 10 years a ground-breaking and ambitious research proposal FURTHER REQUIREMENTS The host institution must employ the researcher for at least the duration of the project. Applicants must provide a letter of commitment from the host institution. TYPE AND EXTENT OF FUNDING Funding of up to 2.5 million euros, in exceptional cases of up to 3.5 million euros, to complete a research project of the researcher’s choice. The researcher’s salary may also be (partly) paid out of these funds. DURATION Up to 5 years. APPLICATION Applications must be submitted online by the researcher on behalf of the host institution through the Funding & Tenders Portal (see link below). ERC Advanced Grants are advertised once a year. www.erc-germany.de erc.europa.eu/apply-grant 65

P o s t d o c s / E a r l y c a r e e r r e s e a r c h e r s ERC Starting Grants IN BRIEF Postdoctoral researchers of any nationality can strengthen their research independence by establishing their own research team at a host institution (university, research institution, company or international organisation) in Germany (or other EU member state or associated country). Applications can be made in any field of research. WHO CAN APPLY? Talented early-career researchers who completed an excellent PhD, generally between 2 and 7 years ago are at the beginning of an independent research career and have already shown research independence have a promising academic track record present a ground-breaking and ambi- tious research proposal FURTHER REQUIREMENTS The host institution must employ the researcher for at least the duration of the project. Applicants must provide a letter of commitment from the host institution. TYPE AND EXTENT OF FUNDING Funding of up to 1.5 million euros, in exceptional cases up to 2.5 million euros, to complete a research project of the researcher’s choice. The researcher’s salary may also be (partly) paid out of these funds. DURATION Up to 5 years. APPLICATION Applications must be submitted online by the researcher on behalf of the host institution through the Funding & Tenders Portal (see link below). ERC Starting Grants are advertised once a year. www.erc-germany.de erc.europa.eu/apply-grant 67

P h D s t u d e n t s Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Networks IN BRIEF PhD candidates receive structured doctoral training within these networks, which are formed jointly by different European insti- tutions. They can apply for positions that are especially created by these networks. TYPE AND EXTENT OF FUNDING Work contract with a salary depending on the host country; plus mobility allowance and (if applicable) family allowance. The research costs of the host organisation(s) are also supported. WHO CAN APPLY? PhD candidates who have not been awarded a doctoral degree at the time of recruitment have not resided or carried out their main activity in the country of the host institution for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to taking up the position (MSCA mobility rule) DURATION The networks are funded for up to 4 years. PhD students can be employed in a network for a minimum of 3 months and a maximum of 3 years. APPLICATION Positions created by the Doctoral Networks are advertised on the EURAXESS job portal (see link below). It is not possible for individual researchers to apply directly to the EU. Applications must be submitted to the respective network. Please check the job advertisements for details on vacancies and deadlines. www.euraxess.de > Jobs & Funding www.kowi.eu 69

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Alexander von Humboldt Foundation (Humboldt Foundation) Alexander von Humboldt Professorship -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------19 Fraunhofer-Bessel Research Award ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------25 Friedrich Wilhelm Bessel Research Award ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------26 Georg Forster Research Award -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------28 Georg Forster Research Fellowship ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------29 Humboldt Research Award ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------34 Humboldt Research Fellowship --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------35 International Climate Protection Fellowship -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------40 Max Planck-Humboldt Research Award -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------50 Philipp Schwartz Initiative -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------54 Boehringer Ingelheim Fonds PhD Fellowships -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------53 Travel Grants -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------61 Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) Collaborative Research Centres ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------21 Emmy Noether Programme ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------23 Heisenberg Programme ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------31 Initiation of International Collaboration -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------39 Research Grants ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------55 Research Training Groups -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------59 Scientific Networks --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------60 Walter Benjamin Programme -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------62 European Funding Programmes ERC Advanced Grants -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------65 ERC Consolidator Grants -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------66 ERC Starting Grants ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------67 ERC Synergy Grants ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------68 Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Networks -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------69 Marie Skłodowska-Curie European Postdoctoral Fellowships --------------------------------------------------------70 73

Leibniz Association Individual Doctoral Projects at Leibniz Institutes -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------37 International Visiting Scholars at Leibniz Institutes -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------43 Leibniz Graduate Schools and Leibniz ScienceCampi -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------44 Leibniz Junior Research Groups ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------45 Leibniz Programme for Women Professors ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------46 Max-Planck-Gesellschaft Individual Doctoral Projects at Max Planck Institutes ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------38 International Max Planck Research Schools ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------41 International Visiting Researchers at Max Planck Institutes -----------------------------------------------------------------------42 Lise Meitner Excellence Program ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------48 Max Planck Grants for Advanced Postdoctoral Training ------------------------------------------------------------------------------49 Max Planck-Humboldt Research Award -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------50 Max Planck Research Group Leader -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------51 VolkswagenStiftung Lichtenberg Endowed Professorships ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------47 75

Association of German Foundations The Association of German Foundations represents the interests of over 24,000 foundations in Germany. With over 4,700 members it is the largest and oldest association of foundations in Europe. Its website offers a free online search facility covering roughly 12,000 foundations that are active in Germany. www.stiftungssuche.de (in German) EURAXESS Germany funding database The EURAXESS Germany funding database contains information for inter- national researchers on funding opportunities, vacancies, social security and tax matters as well as other issues relating to researcher mobility. www.euraxess.de European funding programmes The European Liaison Office of the German Research Organisations (KoWi) helps you to find your way through the European funding jungle. www.kowi.eu 77

This publication was funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research. Any reproduction, even of extracts, is only permitted with appropriate source details, and only with the publisher’s approval. Disclaimer The information provided here makes no claim to be complete. The information is not legally binding and the DAAD accepts no liability for the content presented in this document. Publisher DAAD Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst German Academic Exchange Service Kennedyallee 50 53175 Bonn (Germany) www.daad.de Section International Research Marketing Project coordination Silvia Schmid (responsible), Susanne Findeisen, Caroline Becker, DAAD Publishing house, layout and typesetting FAZIT Communication GmbH Editorial team: Janet Schayan, Dr Sabine Giehle, Clara Krug, Christopher Cave Printed by msk marketingservice köln GmbH Print-run February 2023 – 5,000 (13th, updated version) This publication is updated every two years. © DAAD Photo Credits Cover: DAAD/Jan Zappner; p. 2: Uta Konopka Photographie; p. 4, 7, 14, 16, 63, 71, 72, 77: DAAD/Jan Zappner; p. 18: EmirMemedovski /iStock; p. 64: Christian Lord Otto 79