Humboldt Research Fellowship for Postdocs 2025-26

August 18, 2025

Job Overview

Job Description

πŸ… Humboldt Research Fellowship for Postdocs & Experienced Researchers

Host Country: Germany

Funding Body: Alexander von Humboldt Foundation

Target Group: International postdoctoral and experienced researchers in all disciplines


🌍 Overview

The Humboldt Research Fellowship supports highly qualified researchers worldwide to conduct research in Germany. Postdocs and experienced researchers can collaborate with a host institution of their choice.

The Humboldt Foundation encourages applications from underrepresented groups and ensures diversity and gender equity.

Success Rate: 20–25%

πŸŽ“ Fellowship Options

πŸ”¬ Postdoctoral Researchers

  • Monthly Fellowship: €2,700 + additional benefits
  • Duration: 6 to 24 months, can be split into up to three stays over three years
  • Eligibility: PhD completed within the last 4 years or within 6 months of completion (with summary)

🦒 Experienced Researchers

  • Monthly Fellowship: €3,200 + additional benefits
  • Duration: 6 to 18 months, can be split into up to three stays over three years
  • Eligibility: PhD completed within the last 12 years

πŸ’‘ What the Fellowship Offers

  • Freedom to choose a host institution in Germany
  • Personal support from the Humboldt Foundation
  • Family benefits for children and spouses
  • Language course support
  • Subsidies for health insurance and travel
  • Research cost subsidy for host institution

πŸ” Alumni Support

  • Alumni sponsorship for further research visits
  • Networking and collaboration opportunities
  • Eligibility for future Humboldt funding schemes

βœ… Eligibility Requirements

πŸ“š Academic Qualifications

  • Doctorate or equivalent qualification
  • Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals

🌐 Nationality

Applicants must not be German. Exceptions may apply for long-term residence abroad (>10 years).

🏑 Residence Rule

Not more than 6 months’ residence in Germany within 18 months prior to applying.

🧑 Host Institution

  • Mentoring agreement and written confirmation of research facilities
  • Detailed evaluation of proposal from host

πŸ“„ Expert Reviews

  • Postdocs: Two expert reviews (one from doctoral advisor)
  • Experienced researchers: Reviews from collaborators or international experts

πŸ—£οΈ Language Requirements

  • Sciences & Engineering: Good knowledge of German or English
  • Humanities/Social Sciences: German if required for research, otherwise English

πŸ—“οΈ Application Details

  • Applications accepted year-round
  • Flexible start dates after approval
  • Apply early if already in Germany

πŸ”— Useful Links

Tip: Reach out to potential hosts in Germany with a strong research proposal aligned with your CV and publication record.