Are you passionate about sustainability, public policy, science communication, or interdisciplinary research? The Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) invites applications for its prestigious RIFS Fellow Programme 2026, and it is affiliated with the GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences in Germany. This is a unique opportunity for up to 20 outstanding individuals from across the globe to join an international research community dedicated to shaping pathways for sustainable transformation.

RIFS Germany Research Fellowship – Overview

  • Host Country: Germany
  • Host Institute: RIFS at GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences
  • Fellowship Duration: 6 to 12 months (extendable to 24 months in exceptional cases)
  • Application Deadline: 9 June 2025 (23:59 CET)
  • Fellowship Starting Date: From 1 April 2026
  • Who Can Apply: International scholars, professionals, artists, and change-makers

About the RIFS Fellow Programme

The RIFS Fellow Programme supports individuals who aim to drive positive change through innovative ideas in research, policy, education, business, civil society, media, and the arts. Fellows join a collaborative and interdisciplinary environment, interacting with leading researchers and over 300 alumni from 50+ countries.

Fellows will conduct independent or collaborative projects aligned with one of the institute’s three main research themes, supported by RIFS’s world-class infrastructure and networks.

Research Themes & Areas of Interest

Your proposed project should connect with one or more of RIFS’s research groups and align with themes such as:

  • Climate action and environmental policy
  • Socio-political change and governance
  • Science communication and outreach
  • Technology and innovation for sustainability
  • Arts and humanities in sustainability

Note: Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact RIFS researchers before submitting proposals.

Who Should Apply for Research Jobs in Germany?

The RIFS Fellow Programme is open to:

  • Academics with a PhD (or equivalent)
  • Professionals with 3–5+ years of experience in public administration, civil society, private sector, media, or arts
  • Independent researchers, policy analysts, or social innovators
  • Applicants from all nationalities, backgrounds, and sectors

RIFS strongly encourages applications from women, minorities, and underrepresented groups.

Click Here to Read More Details and Requirements for Fellowship in Germany

How to Apply for the RIFS Postdoc Fellowship in Germany 2026

Applications are accepted only through the online portal. Here’s what you need to prepare (in English, each PDF max. 5MB):

  1. Letter of Motivation (max 2 pages)
  2. CV & Achievements (max 3 pages)
  3. Project Proposal (max 5 pages) – title, abstract, work plan, outputs, timeline, budget
  4. Optional Annex (max 10MB) – publications, portfolio, etc.

Important: Your proposal will undergo a double-blind review. Do not include personal identifiers in the project proposal.

Application Portal:

Click Here to Apply Online for the Research Fellowship in Germany

Fellowship Benefits

Selected fellows will receive:

  • A monthly stipend (varies based on seniority and family status)
  • Relocation and travel reimbursement (including family members)
  • Optional housing support in Potsdam/Berlin
  • Dedicated research space, resources, and mentorship
  • Full access to RIFS events, seminars, and networks
  • Integration into an international alumni network of change-makers

Apply Now and Be Part of Global Change!

Join the RIFS Fellow Programme 2026 and become part of a prestigious network committed to sustainable development. Whether you are a scientist, policymaker, entrepreneur, or artist—your ideas matter here!

Click Here to Apply and Read the official Call for RIFS Fellowship in Germany

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