The RIFS 2026 Fellows Programme in Germany presents an exceptional opportunity for experienced professionals, researchers, and thought leaders to explore innovative ideas and collaborate on global challenges.
Hosted by the Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) in Potsdam, the RIFS programme accepts fellows from across the world in different fields and sectors. If you’re passionate about shaping sustainable futures, this program could be for you.
In this article, I will provide detailed information about the program, its benefits, and the application process.
Contents
- 1 RIFS 2026 Fellows Programme in Germany Summary
- 2 RIFS 2026 Fellows Programme in Germany Details
- 3 RIFS 2026 Fellows Programme in Germany Eligibility Requirements
- 4 Fellowship Benefits
- 5 RIFS 2026 Fellows Programme in Germany: Required Documents
- 6 How to Apply for the RIFS 2026 Fellows Programme in Germany (Step by Step)
- 7 Deadline
- 8 Receive the Latest Scholarship Updates through our Social Media Channels:
RIFS 2026 Fellows Programme in Germany Summary
- Host Country: Potsdam, Germany
- Study Abroad: Study in Europe
- Host Institution: GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences
- Category: Fellowship
- Program Duration: Six months to 12 Months
- Eligible Countries: Global
- Location: Germany, Europe
- Rewards: Monthly Stipend| Travel Expenses | Relocation Support (including family members)| Visa Support |Housing Assistance |
- Application Deadline: June 9th, 2025.
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RIFS 2026 Fellows Programme in Germany Details
The RIFS Fellows Programme in Germany is a prestigious, fully funded opportunity for individuals from all sectors: science, civil society, the arts, public administration, media, and beyond, who are passionate about advancing sustainability transformations. Each year, up to 20 fellows from around the world are invited to join the Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) in Potsdam for 6 to 12 months (with the possibility of an extension up to 24 months in exceptional cases).
This fellowship programme, in collaboration with RIFS research groups, supports fellows to expand their networks at a global level and receive support to develop their ideas in the right community. Applicants from academia should have a PhD or equivalent experience, while non-academic candidates must have at least 3–5 years of relevant professional experience.
The RIFS programme offers competitive support, including a monthly stipend tailored to your seniority and family situation, covers your relocation and travel cost reimbursements (including for family members), visa support and accommodation in Potsdam or Berlin. A limited number of furnished apartments are also available for fellows living outside Germany or Europe.
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RIFS 2026 Fellows Programme in Germany Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible, you have to meet these criteria.
- Academic applicants: You must hold a PhD or have equivalent research experience by the start of the fellowship.
- Non-academic applicants: You must have a minimum of 3 to 5 years of professional experience in your field.
- Your proposed project must align with at least one of RIFS’s three overarching Research themes and engage with at least one Research Group.
- Demonstrate the ability to contribute meaningfully to the interdisciplinary and international community at RIFS.
Note:
You’re strongly encouraged to reach out to RIFS researchers, especially group leaders, before applying to ensure your proposal aligns well with their ongoing work.
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Fellowship Benefits
The RIFS 2026 Fellows Programme offers;
- A monthly stipend based on your experience level and family circumstances.
- Travel and relocation support: The program covers your round-trip travel expenses, including those of accompanying family members.
- Flexible fellowship duration: Fellowships last between 6 to 12 months, with the possibility of extending up to 24 months in exceptional cases.
- Visa support.
- Housing assistance
- A vibrant community.
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RIFS 2026 Fellows Programme in Germany: Required Documents
These are the necessary documents needed to apply for this program:
- A Curriculum Vitae (CV): Your CV should be no longer than 3 pages and must highlight your achievements and professional experiences. Please do not include any personal information.
- Letter of motivation: This document should detail your reasons for applying to the program, your expectations, and how this fellowship can support your work. It should not exceed two pages.
- Project Proposal: This document should be a maximum of five pages and must describe your project with the following details:
- A title
- The abstract (300 words)
- Description of work
- Project duration and estimated budget.
- Note: All documents must be written and submitted in English and PDF format.
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How to Apply for the RIFS 2026 Fellows Programme in Germany (Step by Step)
Follow the steps below to complete your application:
- Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria.
- Prepare your documents: Ensure you have all the required documents before applying.
- Fill out the application form.
- Submit your application.
- The shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
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Deadline
The application deadline for the RIFS 2026 Fellows Programme in Germany is June 9th, 2025.
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