Description

The Georg Forster Research Fellowship 2025 is a prestigious fully funded research opportunity in Germany for postdoctoral and experienced researchers from developing and transition countries. This fellowship, funded by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, supports scholars conducting research relevant to sustainable development. The fellowship offers financial benefits, including a monthly stipend of €2,700 for postdocs and €3,200 for experienced researchers, along with research funding, travel allowances, and family benefits. The next application deadlines are in February, June, and October 2025.

Degree Level

Georg Forster Research Germany Fellowship 2025 (Fully Funded) is available to undertake Fellowship level programs at Germany Universities.

Available Subjects

Following subject are available to study under this scholarship program.

• All Subjects

Benefits

The Georg Forster Fellowship provides comprehensive funding to support research fellows during their stay in Germany. The financial coverage includes:

Monthly stipend:

• Postdoctoral Researchers: €2,700/month
• Experienced Researchers: €3,200/month

Additional Benefits:

• Research costs subsidy for hosts
• Travel allowances
• German language courses
• Health insurance support
• Family benefits for accompanying spouse and children
• Alumni support and networking opportunities

Eligible Nationalities

This fellowship is open to international students of all nationalities.

Eligibility Criteria

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

• Nationality: Must be from a developing or transition country (except China and India)
• Academic Qualification:

1. Postdocs: Must have completed a PhD within the last four years or be within six months of completing their doctorate
2. Experienced Researchers: Must have completed a PhD within the last twelve years

• Research Relevance: Proposed research must contribute to sustainable development in the applicant’s country of origin
• Publication Record: Must have peer-reviewed publications in recognized academic journals
• Host in Germany: A German professor or research institute must provide a host statement and confirmation of research facilities
• Language Proficiency: English or German proficiency (German language certificate may be required)

Application Procedure

Required Documents

Applicants must submit the following documents online via the Humboldt Foundation portal:

• Curriculum Vitae (max 2 pages)
• Research Proposal (max 5 pages)
• List of Publications (as per template)
• Key Publications (with summaries if not in English/German)
• Doctoral Certificate or Proof of PhD Completion
• Host's Statement and Confirmation of Research Facilities
• Two Expert Reviews
• German Language Certificate (if required)

How to Apply for the Georg Forster Research Fellowship

• Find a Host Institution: Identify a German research institution and secure a commitment from a professor or researcher to host you.
• Prepare Your Documents: Ensure all required documents are complete and follow the given format.
• Submit Online Application: Apply through the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation online portal.
• Await Selection Process: Applications are reviewed in February, June, and October. Processing time is 4-8 months.
• Receive Decision & Start Research: If selected, the research stay must begin within 2-12 months of selection.

Selection Process

The selection is conducted by an expert committee of 15-20 scholars based on:

• Academic achievements and research record
• Quality and originality of research proposal
• Relevance of research to sustainable development
• Future potential and career prospects

Why Apply for the Georg Forster Fellowship?

• Fully Funded Research Stay in Germany
• World-Class Research Facilities
• Excellent Networking Opportunities
• Financial Support for Family Members
• Long-Term Career Benefits & Alumni Network

Final Thoughts

The Georg Forster Research Fellowship 2025 is an excellent opportunity for postdoctoral and experienced researchers to conduct cutting-edge research in Germany while contributing to sustainable development in their home countries. With full financial support, flexible research stays, and strong academic networking, this fellowship provides researchers with invaluable career growth.