The Georg Forster Research Fellowship is an international research programme managed by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation. This program helps those from developing countries. Those selected must have works that contribute to sustainable development. This initiative allows scholars to conduct independent research in Germany. Collaborations will be built during the fellows’ stay in Germany, and global networks will be made. Researchers who want to address global challenges in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals should apply.
About the Georg Forster Research Fellowship
The Georg Forster Research Fellowship offers experienced researchers an avenue to undertake research projects at a German university or other research institution. Fellows work with a host who mentors and provides easy access to research resources throughout their stay.
The programme is open to all academic disciplines, if the research contributes positively to the applicant’s country. Issues addressed at this fellowship are climate change, public health, food security, governance and education.
The fellowship is divided into multiple research stays within a three-year period. Fellows and their partners also participate in intensive German language courses before the research starts.
Funding Size
- Typical grant amount: EUR 2,700 per month
- Maximum award: EUR 3,200 per month
- Project duration supported: Six to twenty-four months
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Who Can Apply for the Georg Forster Research Fellowship
Eligible organisation types
- Individual postdoctoral researchers
- Academic researchers
- Scholars affiliated with universities
- Researchers working in sustainable development-related fields
Registration or legal documents
- Doctoral degree certificate or proof of completion
- Academic Resume
- List of publications
- Research output
- Host confirmation letter from a German institution
Project focus requirements
- Research must contribute to sustainable development in the applicant’s region
- Clearly defined research proposal and methodology
- Demonstrated academic excellence and publication record
- Independent research capability
Geographic eligibility
- Citizens of developing
- Countries excluding China and India
- Applicants must have lived and worked in an eligible country for at least twelve months within the last eighteen months
- Limited prior residence in Germany before application
Sector or thematic focus
- Sustainable development research
- Environmental and climate studies
- Public health and social development
- Science, technology,
- Innovation for development
Application Process
- Identify and secure a research host at a German institution
- Prepare a detailed research proposal and academic documents
- Complete the online application through the Humboldt Foundation portal
- Submit expert reviews and a host statement for evaluation
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Required Materials
- Completed online application form
- Research proposal (maximum five pages)
- Resume
- Publication list and key publications
- Doctoral certificate or confirmation of completion
- Expert reference letters
- Host institution statement
Key Dates
- Applications End: no fixed deadline
- Selection committee meetings: February, June, and October each year
- Review process duration: four to six months after submission
Selection Notes
- The fellowship is highly competitive
- Priority is given to people with interests in studying in Germany and who has with clear development goals
- Applications that have no research skills should not apply
Official Source of the Georg Forster Research Fellowship
Application Page: https://service.humboldt-foundation.de/pls/web/pub_register.main?p_package=gf&p_lang=en