Humboldt-PICAIS Research Fellowship
1. Program Overview
The Passau International Centre for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies (PICAIS) at the University of Passau, Germany, has launched a special call to support excellent international researchers in applying for the prestigious Alexander von Humboldt Research Fellowship.
2. How the Program Works
This is a support scheme. PICAIS does not fund the fellowship directly; instead, it acts as an incubator. PICAIS will:
1. Match selected candidates with a suitable Host Professor at the University of Passau.
2. Provide expert guidance and mentoring to craft a competitive research proposal.
3. Support the formal application to the Humboldt Foundation.
Successful applicants become Humboldt Fellows hosted at Passau.
3. Financial Details (Humboldt Fellowship Benefits)
- Postdoctoral Researchers: Monthly fellowship of €2,670.
- Experienced Researchers: Monthly fellowship of €3,170.
- Allowances: Monthly family allowance, travel lump sum, and coverage for a German language course.
- Flexibility: Experienced researchers can split their stay into three blocks.
4. Strategic Research Themes
While open to all disciplines (Humanities, Law, Economics, Computer Science, Mathematics), PICAIS gives priority to projects aligning with the University's strategic themes:
- Europe
- Sustainability
- Digitalisation
5. Eligibility Criteria
- Postdoctoral Researchers: Completed doctorate less than 4 years ago.
- Experienced Researchers: Completed doctorate less than 12 years ago.
- Excellence: Must have an outstanding academic record and publications commensurate with career stage.
- Citizenship: Must be a researcher from abroad (non-German).
6. Program Structure
Duration: 6 to 24 months. The fellowship involves independent research in collaboration with the host institute. Fellows become part of the interdisciplinary PICAIS community, enjoying networking events and academic support.
7. Application Process (Two Stages)
Stage 1: Letter of Intent to PICAIS (Deadline: March 10, 2026)
Submit a single PDF containing your CV and a 3-page Research Summary to picais@uni-passau.de (Cc: arvindhan@ge.iitm.ac.in).
Stage 2: Humboldt Application (Rolling)
If selected by PICAIS (results in mid-April), you will work with your host to submit the full application to the Humboldt Foundation via their online portal.
8. Required Notes
Gender Equality: PICAIS particularly encourages applications from female researchers. Host Search: You do not need to have a host before applying to PICAIS; they will help you find one.