Georg Forster Research Fellowship (2025–2027)
Alexander von Humboldt Foundation Fellowship for researchers from developing and transition countries to conduct research in Germany.
🔍 Quick Snapshot
- Provider: Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, Germany
- Type: Research Fellowship (Postdoc & Experienced Researchers)
- Duration: 6–24 months (Postdoc), 6–18 months (Experienced)
- Funding: €2,670–€3,200 monthly stipend + benefits
- Location: Any German university or research institution
- Target: Researchers from developing/transition countries
🌍 About the Fellowship
The Georg Forster Research Fellowship is a prestigious program by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation that supports both postdoctoral and experienced researchers from developing and transition countries. Fellows conduct independent, development-relevant research at German institutions, benefiting from top-tier resources and global networking opportunities. The program emphasizes contributions to sustainable development in the fellow’s home country or region.
✅ Eligibility Criteria
- Hold nationality from, and have recently lived/worked in, a developing or transition country (excl. China & India)
- Postdocs: Doctorate completed within last 4 years + publications
- Experienced researchers: Doctorate completed within last 12 years + extensive publications
- Research must address development-related issues for home region
- Written invitation & mentoring agreement from a German host researcher
- Not resided in Germany for more than 6 months in last 18 months
- Language: English or German (German required in some humanities fields)
🎁 Fellowship Tracks & Benefits
Postdoctoral Researchers
- Stipend: €2,670/month
- Duration: 6–24 months (can be split across 3 years)
Experienced Researchers
- Stipend: €3,200/month
- Duration: 6–18 months (up to three stays across 3 years)
Additional Benefits
- Research subsidy: €800/month (STEM), €500/month (Humanities)
- Travel costs, family allowances, private health insurance
- Intensive German language course
- Extensive alumni sponsorship & career support
📝 Application Process
Required Documents:
- Online application form
- CV (max 2 pages)
- Research outline (max 5 pages)
- List of publications + key publications
- Doctoral certificate
- Language certificate (if required)
- Host confirmation & mentoring agreement
- Two academic references
Steps:
- Secure host researcher in Germany + mentoring agreement
- Prepare application materials
- Submit via online portal (see link below)
- Host & referees submit their letters
- Wait for review outcome (4–8 months)
⚠️ If rejected unanimously, candidates must wait 18 months before reapplying.
📅 Program Timeline
- Applications: Rolling basis (year-round)
- Selection Meetings: February, June, October
- Decision Time: ~4–8 months after submission
- Research Start: 2–12 months after acceptance
🚀 Advance Your Research Career in Germany
Apply for the Georg Forster Research Fellowship 2025–2027 and join a global network of leading scholars.
Apply NowQuestions? Email info@avh.de
Curated by Growth Forum Malaysia — connecting researchers with global fellowship opportunities.
Source: Humboldt Foundation
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