The Humboldt Research Fellowship offered by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation provides an opportunity for highly qualified researchers from around the world to conduct independent research in Germany.
The fellowship is open to researchers across all academic disciplines and supports both postdoctoral researchers and experienced researchers.
According to the Foundation’s current programme information, the next application call is scheduled to open on 15 November 2026.
Humboldt Research Fellowship 2026–2027: Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Fellowship Name | Humboldt Research Fellowship |
| Organising Organisation | Alexander von Humboldt Foundation |
| Country | Germany |
| Eligible Applicants | International postdoctoral and experienced researchers |
| Research Fields | All academic disciplines |
| Fellowship for Postdocs | 6–24 months |
| Fellowship for Experienced Researchers | 6–18 months |
| Monthly Fellowship for Postdocs | €3,000 |
| Monthly Fellowship for Experienced Researchers | €3,600 |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Next Call Opening Date | 15 November 2026 |
| Expected Selection Meeting | July 2027 |
| Earliest Possible Fellowship Start | September 2027 |
Types of Humboldt Research Fellowship
The programme offers two categories of fellowships according to the applicant’s career stage.
1. Humboldt Research Fellowship for Postdoctoral Researchers
This category is intended for researchers who completed their doctorate within the last four years.
Key details:
- Eligibility: Doctorate completed no more than four years before the application.
- Duration: 6 to 24 months.
- Monthly fellowship: €3,000, plus additional benefits.
- Research opportunity: Conduct research in Germany with an academic host.
Applicants who expect to complete their doctorate before the intended selection meeting may also be eligible.
2. Humboldt Research Fellowship for Experienced Researchers
This category is designed for researchers who completed their doctorate within the last twelve years and have established a strong academic profile.
Key details:
- Eligibility: Doctorate completed no more than twelve years before the application.
- Duration: 6 to 18 months.
- Monthly fellowship: €3,600, plus additional benefits.
- Additional expectations: A substantial publication record, significant research contributions and a leadership role appropriate to the applicant’s career stage.
Important Dates for the 2026–2027 Call
The Foundation has introduced a system of three application calls each year, corresponding to its three annual selection meetings.
| Call Opens | Selection Meeting | Earliest Possible Fellowship Start |
|---|---|---|
| 15 March 2026 | November 2026 | February 2027 |
| 15 July 2026 | March 2027 | May 2027 |
| 15 November 2026 | July 2027 | September 2027 |
Documents Required for the Application
Applications must be submitted online with the required supporting documents.
- Curriculum vitae
- Research outline
- Complete list of publications.
- List of selected key publications.
- Copies of the key publications.
- Doctoral certificate or accepted proof of doctoral completion.
- German language certificate, if required.
- Two expert reviews submitted directly by the designated reviewers.
- A detailed statement from the academic host in Germany.
- Confirmation that the required research facilities are available.
Official Notification: https://www.humboldt-foundation.de/en/apply/sponsorship-programmes/humboldt-research-fellowship