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Applications are now open for the RIFS Fellows Program 2027 in Germany. This fully funded international fellowship provides researchers, professionals, and innovators from around the world with an opportunity to spend 6 to 12 months in Germany conducting research and developing ideas focused on sustainability transformation.
The fellowship is organized by the Research Institute for Sustainability and welcomes applicants from diverse academic and professional backgrounds. Participants will live and work in Potsdam, Germany, while collaborating with experts and international fellows on projects aimed at addressing global sustainability challenges.
Each year, around 20 fellows from different countries are selected for the program. One of the attractive features of this fellowship is that there is no application fee and no IELTS requirement.
Scholarship Overview
- Host Country: Germany
- Location: Potsdam
- Program: RIFS Fellows Program 2027
- Duration: 6–12 Months
- Funding Type: Fully Funded
- Application Deadline: 21 June 2026
Degree Level
The RIFS Fellows Program is open to:
- PhD holders
- Researchers
- Professionals with equivalent experience
- Policy experts
- Media professionals
- Civil society members
- Artists and innovators
This fellowship is primarily intended for postdoctoral-level researchers and experienced professionals rather than undergraduate or master’s students.
Available Subjects
Applicants working in sustainability-related fields are encouraged to apply. Relevant areas include:
- Sustainability studies
- Environmental science
- Public policy
- Social sciences
- Climate studies
- Media and communication
- Human development
- Innovation and technology
- Arts and sustainability
- Human-Earth interactions
Research Themes
Applicants are required to submit project proposals related to one of the following research themes:
Sustainability Transformations and Society
This area focuses on creating sustainable changes within societies, institutions, and communities.
Advancing Transdisciplinarity and Co-Creation
This theme supports collaborative approaches that combine multiple disciplines and stakeholder perspectives.
Transforming Human-Earth Interactions
Research under this theme aims to understand and improve the relationship between humans and environmental systems.
Benefits
Selected fellows will receive:
- Travel expenses to and from Germany
- Travel support for family members
- Monthly stipend for living expenses
- Relocation support
- Assistance with housing arrangements
- Visa support
- Health insurance coverage
- Access to international research networks
- Opportunity to work with global experts and professionals
Eligible Nationalities
The fellowship is open to applicants from all countries worldwide.
International candidates from any nationality are eligible to submit applications.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Candidates from all countries are eligible
- Scientists should hold a PhD or equivalent experience
- Non-academic professionals should have at least 3–5 years of work experience
- Applicants from media, arts, public administration, private sector, and civil society can apply
- Must demonstrate a strong interest in sustainability transformation
- Should have innovative ideas and leadership potential
- Project proposal must align with RIFS research themes
Application Procedure
Required Documents
Applicants typically need the following documents:
- Motivation letter
- Updated CV
- List of achievements
- Project proposal
- Optional supporting annex
How to Apply
Interested applicants can apply online through the official RIFS application portal.
Steps to apply:
- Visit the official RIFS application website.
- Create an account or log in.
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload required documents.
- Submit a project proposal aligned with the research themes.
- Review all details carefully.
- Submit the application before the deadline.
Why Apply for the RIFS Fellows Program?
The RIFS Fellows Program offers participants a chance to work in an international research environment while contributing to solutions for global sustainability challenges. Fellows gain valuable experience, establish professional connections, and collaborate with experts from different sectors and disciplines.
