If you are a postdoctoral or experienced researcher from a developing or transition country and your work focuses on sustainable development, the Georg Forster Research Fellowship 2026 by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation offers a prestigious pathway to conduct independent research in Germany. This fellowship is designed for scholars who want to create meaningful impact in their home regions while collaborating with leading German research institutions.

What This Opportunity Really Offers You

The Georg Forster Fellowship 2026 is designed around academic freedom and meaningful collaboration. As a postdoctoral researcher, you receive a monthly stipend of €2,700, while experienced researchers receive €3,200 per month. The fellowship duration is flexible — 6 to 24 months for postdocs and 6 to 18 months for experienced researchers — and can even be split into up to three research stays within three years. In addition to financial support, host institutions may receive research cost subsidies, strengthening your project’s implementation and collaboration quality.

Your proposed research must address issues relevant to the sustainable development of your region of origin. The fellowship is open to all academic disciplines, as long as your work contributes to long-term social, economic, environmental, or institutional development.

Who Can Apply for Humboldt Research Fellowship 2026?

For Humboldt Research Fellowship 2026, you must be a postdoctoral or experienced researcher with above-average academic qualifications. Applicants must hold citizenship of a developing or transition country (excluding China and India). Your proposed research must clearly contribute to sustainable development in your region of origin. A confirmed academic host in Germany is mandatory, along with two expert academic reviews. You must also demonstrate good proficiency in English or German, depending on your field, particularly in natural sciences and engineering disciplines.

How to Apply for Georg Forster Research Fellowship 2026 in Germany? 

The application process for Georg Forster Fellowship 2026 is completed through the Humboldt Foundation’s online portal once all documents are prepared. You must submit a concise two-page CV, a research proposal of up to five pages, a full publication list, key publication copies, and your doctoral certificate or proof of completion. In addition, your German host must provide a formal statement confirming research facilities, and two academic referees must submit independent evaluations. Since selection rounds take place in June and October 2026, early preparation and host communication are critical.

Key Details at a Glance

Detail	Information
Fellowship Name	Georg Forster Research Fellowship
Funding Body	Alexander von Humboldt Foundation
Host Country	Germany
Duration	6–24 months (Postdocs), 6–18 months (Experienced)
Monthly Stipend	€2,700 / €3,200
Eligible Fields	All disciplines
Target Group	Developing & transition countries
Focus Area	Sustainable development
Selection Rounds	June 2026 & October 2026

If your research aims to contribute to sustainable development while advancing your academic career through international collaboration, the Georg Forster Research Fellowship 2026 is one of the most respected opportunities available. Start preparing your documents and contacting potential German hosts well in advance of the selection rounds.

Stay connected with us to explore more prestigious research fellowships, fully funded academic opportunities, and global pathways designed for researchers from developing and transition countries.