The Alexander von Humboldt Foundation offers the Georg Forster Research Fellowship to researchers from developing and emerging countries, supporting their pursuit of the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. This fellowship enables researchers to conduct research in Germany, fostering international collaboration and contributing to sustainable solutions.

Fellowship Overview

The Georg Forster Research Fellowship supports postdoctoral and experienced researchers from developing and transition countries (excluding PR China and India). It facilitates research stays in Germany, fostering collaboration with German research institutions. The program particularly encourages applications from female scientists and those from Least Developed Countries (LDC).

The fellowship aims to support research relevant to the sustainable development of the applicant's region of origin. Successful applicants will receive sponsorship equivalent to the Humboldt Research Fellowship, along with personalized support throughout their stay.

Fellows benefit from access to state-of-the-art research facilities and collaboration with leading experts in their fields. The program also offers opportunities for networking and building lasting relationships with German researchers.

Funding and Duration

For postdocs, the monthly fellowship amount is €2,700, while experienced researchers receive €3,200, both with additional benefits. Fellowships for postdocs can range from 6 to 24 months, and for experienced researchers from 6 to 18 months. The fellowship can be divided into up to three stays within three years.

Additional financial support includes family benefits for children and partners, subsidies for private full health insurance, and allowances for travel expenses. Hosts may also apply for a subsidy for research costs.

The program also offers a German language course prior to the research fellowship for both the fellow and their partner. Alumni programs provide ongoing support for career development and future collaborations.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must be researchers from developing or transition countries with above-average qualifications. The research must address questions relevant to the sustainable development of their region of origin.

Postdocs must have completed their doctorate within the last four years or be within six months of completion. Experienced researchers must have completed their doctorate within the last twelve years. If a doctorate is not possible or uncommon in the applicant's field or country, they can apply up to 16 years after completing their master’s degree, provided they have a commensurate publication record.

• Applicants must abide by the rules of good scientific practice and the principles of scientific ethics.

• Applicants must have a host's statement and confirmation that research facilities are available.

• Applicants must possess the necessary language skills.

Application Process

Applications must be submitted online through the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation's website. Required documents include a curriculum vitae, research outline, list of publications, key publications, doctoral certificate, and German language certificate (if required).

The host's statement and expert reviews must be uploaded separately by the host and reviewers in a protected area. Applicants should contact the Foundation (info[at]avh.de) with any questions before submitting their application.

The Selection Committee meets every February, June, and October. Applications should be submitted well in advance of the desired selection date. The processing time is typically four to eight months.

Selection Criteria

The selection committee assesses applications based on academic career and record, quality of key publications, originality and innovative potential of the proposed research, and its relevance to sustainable development. The assessment also considers the individual life journey and educational background, especially in terms of equal opportunities and accessibility.

The committee also considers the applicant's future potential, including academic potential, personal development, and career prospects. For experienced researchers, the independent research profile is also evaluated.

The decision to award research fellowships is taken by a selection committee consisting of 15–20 researchers from various fields. In past years, an average of 20 to 25 percent of applicants received fellowships.