The Bayer Foundation Scientific Fellowships programme supports master’s, PhD, and medical students. It helps them pursue international research projects and internships. It encourages international exchange and advances scientific knowledge across several research areas. Main interests include drug discovery, medical sciences, and climate and health. Young scientists will develop new skills and understand how the global scientific world works when enrolled. Application closes on April 15, 2026.
About the Bayer Foundation Scientific Fellowships
The Scientific Fellowships aim to foster innovative research by allowing recipients to carry out research at leading research institutions abroad. Students based in Germany must complete placements in a second country, while those studying outside Germany must conduct their fellowship at a German research institution.
Applicants are encouraged from all scientific disciplines with relevance to the fellowship categories. It is a highly competitive programme with evaluation done by an independent jury. To be accepted, applicants must show the potential and relevance of the project to society. It is not just about being brilliant; applicants must show capacity and potential.
Funding Size
- Typical grant amount: €10,000
- Maximum award: €10,000 including activity costs
- Project duration supported: six months
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Who Can Apply for the Bayer Foundation Scientific Fellowships
Eligible organisation types
- Individual master’s students
- PhD candidates
- Medical students pursuing relevant research
- Students in accredited universities
Registration or legal documents
- Proof of current academic position
- Curriculum vitae
- A formal letter of support from the host institution
- Two letters of recommendation
Project focus requirements
- Research or internship projects with strong scientific merit
- Studies relevant to drug discovery, agricultural science, medical sciences, or climate and health
- Projects that show disciplinary collaboration
- Projects that show international relevance
- Proposals that contribute to scientific development and knowledge exchange
Geographic eligibility
- Applicants from any country worldwide
- Placement requirement ensures fellows study abroad or at German institutions
- Participants are able to undertake placements in the appropriate host location
- Researchers with flexible geographic mobility
Sector or thematic focus
- Drug discovery sciences
- Agricultural science
- Medical and veterinary sciences
- Climate and health research
Application Process
- Prepare your application materials, including project proposal, host acceptance letter, recommendation letters, and academic transcripts
- Complete and submit the online application during the application period
- Make sure supporting documents are provided in English
- Participate in any additional assessments or follow‑up communications if required by the selection committee
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Required Materials
- Completed online application form
- Project proposal outlining research or placement activities
- Host institute acceptance/support letter
- Two letters of recommendation
- Curriculum vitae
- Academic transcripts
- Certificate
- One Minute Video
Key Dates
- Application starts: February 18 2026
- Application deadline: April 15 2026
- Review period: April to June 2026
- Notification of results: June to July 2026
Selection Notes
- The fellowships are competitive.
- Proposals with strong scientific merit, clear purpose and global relevance are given priority.
- Applicants whose projects fall outside the specified focus areas and do not meet the placement requirements are excluded
Official Source of the Bayer Foundation Scientific Fellowships
Application Page: https://bayerag.eu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_erGihBVzVu5afqe

