Leuphana University of Lüneburg, Germany, has announced a Research Associate Scholarship for 2026 under its Digital Transformation Research Center. This unique opportunity is designed for highly motivated graduates and researchers interested in pursuing doctoral research in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital transformation. This scholarship combines academic research with real-world applications, particularly in AI for small datasets and AI-driven transformation in digitalization. Scholars will also gain the chance to build professional networks with startups, industry partners, and research communities.
Leuphana University AI Research Associate Scholarship 2026
- Full-time research assistant position (EG 13 TV-L, 100%) for 3 years
- Monthly scholarship salary: €4,630 – €6,580
- Opportunity to pursue a doctoral degree under the supervision of leading professors
- Research focus: AI for startups, prototype development, and AI-driven organizational transformation
- You’ll get a chance to closely collaborate with Leuphana’s Startup Lab and AI Innovation Hub
- Interdisciplinary academic environment with access to international research networks
- It offers the most astonishing workplaces in university campuses in Germany
Eligibility Criteria
- You must hold your Master’s in some technical field (PhD is an advantage)
- Strong knowledge of Artificial Intelligence (AI), with both theoretical and practical understanding
- Ability to conduct and manage research projects
- Excellent communication skills and innovative mindset
- Interest in startups, entrepreneurship, and digital transformation
- You’ll need a proof of English language proficiency (C1 level) and German (B2 level)
- Ability to multitask and build networks with academic and industrial partners
Application Requirements
Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:
- Complete application form through the official portal
- Updated CV without a photo
- Cover letter describing motivation and suitability
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Research proposal or statement of interest in AI and digital transformation
- Reference letters (if applicable)
Deadline: September 14, 2025
Applications must be submitted online via the portal using the keyword “WiMi FZ DT.”
Scholarship/Position Benefits
- Monthly stipend (€4,630 – €6,580)
- Opportunity to pursue a doctoral degree in an active AI research environment
- Strong academic supervision from renowned professors (Prof. Ricardo Usbeck, Prof. Burkhardt Funk, and others)
- Career development workshops, hackathons, and AI networking events
- Health and sports facilities provided by the university
- Sponsored Germany Job Ticket for transport
- University cafeteria lunch support
- Internal and external training opportunities
- Pension benefits under the public service framework
AI Research Associate Scholarship 2026 Overview
Field | Details |
Name of scholarship/internship | Research Associate Scholarship 2026 |
Offering institution | Leuphana University of Lüneburg, Germany |
Available programs & study fields | AI for Small Data Sets, AI-driven Transformation, Digitalization, Entrepreneurship |
Language of instruction | English (C1), German (B2) |
Duration | 3 years (2026–2029) |
Deadline | September 14, 2025 |
Number of positions | 1 (Research Assistant Role) |
Location | Lüneburg, Germany |
Fully funded/partial funding details | Fully funded (public service salary under EG 13 TV-L + benefits) |
How to Apply
Interested applicants must:
- Visit the official portal: Apply Here
- You need to register your account and complete the details
- You must attach all the documents in the required format (PDF preferred)
- Submit the application before September 14, 2025
- For queries, contact:
- Prof. Ricardo Usbeck ([email protected])
- Prof. Burkhardt Funk ([email protected])
Comparison with Similar Opportunities
University/Program | Field of Research | Duration | Funding/Salary | Location |
Leuphana University – Research Associate Scholarship 2026 | AI, Digital Transformation, Startups | 3 years | €4,630–€6,580/month | Lüneburg, Germany |
TU Munich Doctoral Research in AI | AI, Robotics, Machine Learning | 3–4 years | €2,800–€4,200/month | Munich, Germany |
ETH Zurich PhD Program | AI, Data Science, Computational Science | 4 years | CHF 47,000–52,000/year | Zurich, Switzerland |
FAQs About Leuphana University AI Research Associate Scholarship 2026
- Q1: Is AI Research Associate Scholarship in Germany for all kinds of international students?
Yes, international applicants with the required language proficiency (C1 English and B2 German) are encouraged to apply. - Q2: Can I apply without prior experience in startups?
Yes, but a strong interest in entrepreneurship and AI innovation is highly valued. - Q3: Is this a PhD scholarship?
Yes, this role is structured as a doctoral research assistantship. - Q4: What is the monthly stipend?
The scholarship provides a competitive salary between €4,630 and €6,580 per month under German public service pay scale (EG 13 TV-L). - Q5: Do I need to speak German fluently for Leuphana University Scholarship 2026?
B2 proficiency in German is required, as the role involves networking with local companies.
This is a rare and highly competitive opportunity for AI enthusiasts to conduct advanced doctoral research while getting financial support in one of Germany’s most innovative universities. Don’t miss your chance! Please remember to send your applications by September 14 of 2025, through the official application portal. Please check out the complete info by visiting the official announcement page.
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