If you are a mid-career professional who has spent a decade shaping sustainability in practice—and you are ready to turn bold ideas into long-term change—the Klaus Töpfer Sustainability Fellowship 2027 offers a powerful platform to do exactly that. Hosted by the Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) in Potsdam, Germany, this prestigious fellowship invites experienced change-makers to pursue innovative projects that go beyond academic theory and influence real-world transformation. Named in honor of Klaus Töpfer, the fellowship reflects a deep commitment to sustainability leadership across society.

What this opportunity really offers you

Töpfer Sustainability Fellowship 2027 is not a routine academic residency. You are given up to one year—starting in early 2027—to concentrate fully on a project that can outlive the fellowship itself. Alongside a monthly stipend and support for living costs in Germany, you may receive a discretionary project budget of up to €30,000. This funding can support travel, publications, workshops, policy dialogues, or even artistic production linked to sustainability. Working on-site in Potsdam, you will engage with RIFS’ interdisciplinary community while maintaining the intellectual independence needed to shape meaningful outcomes.

Your project can emerge from a wide range of fields—as long as it advances sustainability and societal transformation. RIFS values diversity of thought and encourages proposals that bridge disciplines and cultures.

• Sustainability projects in science, policy, business, civil society, or the arts
  
• Innovative, forward-looking ideas with long-term societal impact
  
• Projects informed by international and cross-cultural experience

Who can apply for Klaus Töpfer Sustainability Fellowship 2027?

You should bring at least ten years of professional experience in sustainability-related work, whether in science, governance, private sector innovation, civil society, or the arts. RIFS Sustainability fellowship 2027 is especially for mid-career leaders with demonstrated impact and cross-cultural experience. Academic pathways are respected, but selection emphasizes originality, leadership capacity, and the ability to translate ideas into societal change. You should be ready to carry out your project on-site in Potsdam and contribute actively to the institute’s intellectual life.

How to apply for Klaus Töpfer Sustainability Fellowship 2027?

You must submit your application in English through the official RIFS online portal. Prepare a motivation letter (maximum 6,500 characters) that clearly explains your purpose and leadership journey. Your project proposal (maximum 15,000 characters plus references) should outline objectives, methodology, expected outcomes, and long-term relevance. You will also upload your CV, key publications, and two letters of recommendation. Transparency is important—you must declare any use of AI in preparing your materials. Clear vision and feasibility will strengthen your application.

Key details at a glance

Detail	Information
Fellowship name	Klaus Töpfer Sustainability Fellowship
Host institution	Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS)
Location	Potsdam, Germany
Fellowship duration	Up to 1 year
Start period	First quarter of 2027
Project funding	Up to €30,000 (discretionary budget)
Application deadline	5 April 2026 (11:59 p.m. CEST)
Award decision	Autumn 2026

If your work in sustainability is ready to move from experience to legacy, this fellowship is your next step. Prepare your proposal carefully and submit your application for the Klaus Töpfer Sustainability Fellowship 2027 before 5 April 2026 to be considered.

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