The CAPES-Humboldt Research Fellowship, a collaboration between the Brazilian research funding organization CAPES and the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, supports postdoctoral and experienced researchers from Brazil to conduct research in Germany. This fellowship offers individual support and access to a diverse sponsorship portfolio.

Fellowship Overview

The CAPES-Humboldt Research Fellowship enables researchers to conduct their own research at a German research institution of their choice, in collaboration with a host. Host institutes generally receive a subsidy towards research costs. The Alexander von Humboldt Foundation aims for gender balance and diversity among its fellows.

The fellowship is available for both postdoctoral and experienced researchers. It provides financial support and personal support throughout the sponsorship. Alumni also receive support for renewed research stays at German institutes and universities.

This program offers a unique opportunity to collaborate with leading researchers in Germany and enhance your academic profile. It also provides opportunities to experience German culture and build lasting international collaborations.

Financial Support and Benefits

Postdoctoral researchers receive a monthly fellowship of €2,700 plus additional benefits. Experienced researchers receive €3,200 monthly, also with additional benefits. Fellowships can range from 6 to 24 months for postdocs and 6 to 18 months for experienced researchers.

Fellowships can be divided into up to three stays within three years. Additional financial support includes family benefits for children and partners, and allowances for travel expenses. Prior to the research fellowship, fellows and their partners can attend an intensive language course.

The program also offers alumni programs to support career development and future research collaborations. Return fellowships or later visits to Germany are also possible.

Eligibility Criteria

The fellowship is open to postdoctoral researchers from Brazil with above-average qualifications, regardless of their field. Applicants must also meet specific criteria related to their academic achievements and publications.

• Postdocs: Doctorate completed within the last four years, publications in academic journals reviewed according to international standards.

• Experienced Researchers: Doctorate completed within the last twelve years, extensive list of publications in academic journals and publishing houses reviewed according to international standards.

Applicants must abide by the Rules of Good Scientific Practice and the principles of scientific ethics. Those who have already received sponsorship from the Humboldt Foundation are not eligible.

Application Process and Required Documents

To apply, submit the necessary documents online to both the Humboldt Foundation and CAPES. Application documents and further information on the application process can be found on the CAPES website. Contact the Humboldt Foundation (info@avh.de) for any doubts or questions before submitting your application.

Required documents include a curriculum vitae (two pages max), research outline (five pages max), complete list of publications, list of selected key publications, key publications, doctoral certificate, and German language certificate (if required). A host's statement and confirmation that research facilities are available are also required.

The host's statement must be uploaded by the host personally in a protected area. Once the online application is received, confirmation will be sent by email from both CAPES and the Humboldt Foundation.

Key Dates and Deadlines

The application deadline is 17:00 Brasilia time on the last working day in May or November of the year preceding the planned research stay. The selection results are typically announced approximately six months after the application deadline. The fellowship or language course can start a few months after the selection results are announced.

For example, applications submitted between June 3, 2024, and November 29, 2024, will have results announced by May 26, 2025, with the fellowship starting between September 2025 and May 2026. Be sure to check the official website for the most up-to-date deadlines.

Ensure all formal conditions are met by the application deadline. Applications are assessed based on individual academic qualifications, the host’s statement, and independent peer reviews.