Georg Forster Research Fellowship

 (Fully Funded)

The Georg Forster Research Fellowship 2026 offers outstanding researchers from developing and transition countries the opportunity to conduct long-term research in Germany. Funded by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, this prestigious fellowship supports researchers across all disciplines who aim to address global challenges with innovative solutions.

This fully funded opportunity is designed for postdoctoral and experienced researchers who want to collaborate with academic institutions in Germany and contribute to development in their home countries.

About the Fellowship

The Georg Forster Research Fellowship is named in honor of the German naturalist and ethnologist Georg Forster, who was known for his scientific exploration and advocacy for social reform. The fellowship supports research projects that contribute to the sustainable development of the applicant's country of origin.

Recipients are hosted by a university or research institution in Germany, where they can conduct research for a period of up to two years (for postdoctoral researchers) or up to eighteen months over a three-year period (for experienced researchers).

Fellowship Benefits

The fellowship provides comprehensive support, including:

• Monthly stipend of €2,670 for postdoctoral researchers

• Monthly stipend of €3,170 for experienced researchers

• Travel allowance and mobility support

• Family allowances for accompanying spouses and children

• Language courses in German before the research stay

• Extensive networking opportunities with Humboldt alumni and partners

• Access to additional funding for research costs, conference travel, and equipment

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Must be a citizen of a developing or transition country as listed by the foundation

• Must hold a PhD or equivalent academic degree completed less than four years ago (for postdoctoral applicants) or twelve years ago (for experienced researchers)

• Must have a strong research profile, demonstrated by academic publications

• Must propose a research project that is relevant to the development of their home country

• Must secure an invitation from a host researcher or institution in Germany

Applicants must not have had extensive stays in Germany prior to the fellowship and must not hold German citizenship.

Eligible Fields

The fellowship is open to researchers in all disciplines, including but not limited to:

• Natural sciences

• Engineering

• Medicine and health sciences

• Environmental studies

• Social sciences

• Humanities

• Development studies

Application Process

The Georg Forster Research Fellowship accepts applications on a rolling basis. There is no specific annual deadline, and applications can be submitted at any time.

The process includes:

1. Preparing a detailed research proposal

2. Securing a formal invitation from a German host institution

3. Completing the online application through the Humboldt Foundation portal

4. Uploading required documents such as CV, academic transcripts, publications, and letters of reference

Applications are evaluated by independent experts based on academic quality, the relevance of the proposed research, and its potential for contributing to development.

Selection Timeline

• Applications are accepted year-round

• Selection decisions typically take four to seven months after submission

• Research stays can begin shortly after approval

Official Source

For full eligibility details, application guidelines, and the online application portal, visit the official website of the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation:
Georg Forster Research Fellowship

Final Thoughts

The Georg Forster Research Fellowship 2026 is a valuable opportunity for researchers who wish to deepen their academic work, collaborate internationally, and contribute meaningfully to the sustainable development of their countries. With full financial support and access to Germany’s top research infrastructure, this fellowship enables scholars to advance their research and broaden their global impact.

If you are a motivated researcher ready to take your work to the next level, this could be the opportunity you have been waiting for.