Georg Forster Research Fellowship - Alexander von Humboldt Foundation

Overview

The Alexander von Humboldt Foundation’s Georg Forster Research Fellowship funds researchers from developing and transition countries - including all of Africa, Asia, Latin America, and parts of Eastern Europe - to conduct a self-designed research project at a German university or research institution. Crucially, the research must address questions relevant to the sustainable development of your region of origin, regardless of field. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis by selection committees that meet in February, June, and October. The October 2026 committee is the next selection date; applications should be submitted by early October 2026 to be considered. Unlike the general Humboldt Research Fellowship (open to all nationalities), this programme is exclusively for researchers from developing countries.

Benefits

• Monthly stipend of EUR 2,670 (early postdoc) or EUR 3,170 (experienced postdoc).
• EUR 690 monthly family allowance for accompanying spouse; EUR 276 per child.
• Travel grant for the fellow and family (economy class).
• German language course costs.
• Research allowance of EUR 800 per month for consumables, travel to conferences, and field work.
• Fellowship duration: 6 to 24 months (can be split into two stays of at least 3 months each).

Eligibility

• Citizen or permanent resident of a developing or transition country as classified by the OECD Development Assistance Committee. All 54 African countries are eligible.
• Hold a PhD awarded no more than four years before the application date (extensions granted for parental leave, illness, or national service).
• Alternatively, be within six months of completing your PhD and able to provide a written summary of findings.
• Must have a compelling research plan that addresses sustainable development challenges relevant to your home region.
• Must be sponsored by a named host scientist at a German research institution who agrees to support the application.

How to apply

1. Identify a host scientist at a German university, Max Planck Institute, Fraunhofer Institute, Helmholtz Centre, or Leibniz Institute willing to co-sign your application.
2. Download the latest application forms from the Humboldt Foundation website.
3. Prepare the following: research plan (up to 5 pages), two referee reports, academic CV, list of publications, PhD certificate and academic transcripts, and a statement of how your research addresses sustainable development in your country of origin.
4. Submit the complete application online at least four to eight months before your intended start date. For the October 2026 committee, aim to submit by early October 2026.
5. Processing typically takes four to eight months; successful applicants receive a written offer from the Foundation.
6. Contact the Humboldt Foundation’s Africa team at: info@avh.de.