The DAAD PRIME Fellowship 2025/26 offers an excellent opportunity for postdoctoral researchers from around the world to conduct independent research with full financial support. Funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), the fellowship includes a 12-month research stay outside Germany and a 6-month reintegration phase at a German university.
This 18-month fully funded program is designed to support academic mobility, international collaboration, and long-term career development in Germany. The application deadline is 29 August 2025.
Fellowship Summary
- Host Country: Germany
- Research Abroad: Yes (12 months)
- Total Duration: 18 months
- Funding: Fully Funded
- Application Deadline: 29 August 2025
Financial Benefits
Fellows receive comprehensive support, including:
- Full employment contract at a German university
- Monthly salary between €5,000 – €6,400 (pre-tax)
- Monthly allowance during the research stay abroad
- Lump-sum travel allowance
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Fellowship Structure
12-Month Research Phase Abroad
Fellows will spend one year at a foreign research institution to conduct their project.
6-Month Return Phase in Germany
The reintegration period takes place at a German university, supporting the fellow’s re-entry into the German research system.
Eligibility Requirements
- Applicants of any nationality can apply
- Must hold a completed doctorate (or be near completion)
- Application allowed up to six years post-doctorate
- At least one peer-reviewed publication
- Clear intent to build a long-term academic career in Germany
- Must not have spent more than 12 months in the proposed host country in the last three years
- Must secure invitation letters from both German and foreign host institutions
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Key Dates
- Selection: March 2026
- Virtual Orientation: March/April 2026
- Start Date (Earliest): 1 June 2026
- Start Date (Latest): 1 November 2026
Documents Required
- Online application form
- Curriculum Vitae
- Career plan
- Research project summary and full proposal
- Project timeline
- Invitation letters (German & foreign hosts)
- Academic degrees and transcripts
- Publication list
- PhD thesis summary
- Signed ethics checklist
- Language certificate
- Recommendation letter
How to Apply
All applications must be submitted online via the DAAD official website. Be sure to follow the guidelines carefully and complete your submission before 29 August 2025.
For more scholarship opportunities, please visit International Scholarships.
