From Local to Global: Your Research Can Change the World with the Georg Forster Fellowship!
From Local to Global: Your Research Can Change the World with the Georg Forster Fellowship!
Unleashing Global Talent: Georg Forster Research Fellowship for Sustainable Development
Are you a visionary postdoctoral or experienced researcher with a passion for sustainable development? The Georg Forster Research Fellowship, granted by the prestigious Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, offers an incredible opportunity for researchers from developing and emerging countries to contribute to global progress through research in Germany. This fellowship is more than just funding; it’s a gateway to international collaboration, career advancement, and making a tangible impact on your region of origin.
From Local to Global: Your Research Can Change the World with the Georg Forster Fellowship!
Why Apply for the Georg Forster Research Fellowship?
Contributing to Sustainable Development
The fellowship acknowledges the crucial role of researchers from developing countries in achieving the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By facilitating cutting-edge research, the Humboldt Foundation ensures that innovative solutions are brought to the forefront of global development challenges.
Empowering Women in Science
The foundation particularly welcomes applications from female scientists, promoting gender equality and empowering women to excel in scientific research.
The Fellowship: Sponsorship and Benefits
Research Stay in Germany
Successful applicants can conduct their research at a German institution of their choice for a period ranging from 6 to 24 months. This flexibility allows researchers to fully immerse themselves in their work and take advantage of Germany’s rich academic resources.
Financial Support
Postdoctoral researchers receive a monthly fellowship amount of €2,670, while experienced researchers receive €3,170. Additional financial support includes family benefits, health insurance subsidies, travel allowances, and intensive German language courses for fellows and their spouses.
Comprehensive Support and Flexibility
Fellows enjoy personal support throughout their stay, with flexible start dates and opportunities for career development even after the fellowship ends. Alumni programs offer ongoing support, ensuring lasting professional relationships and continued collaboration.
Who Should Apply?
Eligibility Criteria
The fellowship is open to researchers from developing and transition countries (excluding PR China and India) with above-average qualifications. Research projects must address issues relevant to the development of the applicant’s home region.
For Postdocs
Applicants should have completed their doctorate within the last four years or be within six months of completing it. A strong publication record in international journals is essential.
For Experienced Researchers
Applicants should have completed their doctorate within the last twelve years and have an extensive list of publications. For those in fields or countries where a doctorate is uncommon, up to 16 years post-master’s degree with a commensurate publication record is acceptable.
How to Apply
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit a comprehensive application online, including:
- Curriculum vitae (two pages max)
- Research outline (five pages max)
- Complete list of publications
- Key publications
- Doctoral certificate or proof of completion within six months
- German language certificate, if applicable
- Host’s statement and confirmation of research facilities
- Two expert reviews
Selection Procedure
Evaluation Criteria
Applications are evaluated based on the applicant’s academic record, the quality and originality of key publications, the innovative potential of the proposed research, and its relevance to the applicant’s home region. The selection committee, consisting of 15-20 researchers from various fields, bases its decisions on these criteria and two independent peer reviews.
Application Timeline
The selection committee meets three times a year (February, June, and October). Applicants should submit their documents well in advance, as the process takes about four to eight months. Successful applicants can begin their fellowship between two to twelve months after selection.
Success Stories: Georg Forster Research Fellows
Dr. Gloria Ugwuja and Professor Andreas Taubert
Dr. Gloria Ugwuja, a current Georg Forster Fellow, collaborates with Professor Andreas Taubert in Potsdam on innovative water treatment methods. This partnership highlights the global impact of local solutions.
Professor Carmen Gloria Feijoo
Professor Feijoo, a molecular biologist, aims to diversify academia and inspire Chilean women to pursue fellowships in Germany, showcasing the fellowship’s role in fostering diversity and inclusion.
Ezinne Ezepue
Ezepue’s research on African storytelling at the ifs Internationale Filmschule Köln demonstrates the fellowship’s support for cultural and social sciences, enhancing the global understanding of diverse narratives.
Alejandra Omarini
Biochemist Alejandra Omarini from Argentina explores the industrial utilization of lemon peels, highlighting the fellowship’s support for innovative and practical research solutions.
Join the Ranks of Global Change-Makers
The Georg Forster Research Fellowship is more than just financial support; it’s a platform for researchers to make significant contributions to sustainable development. By fostering international collaboration and supporting groundbreaking research, the fellowship empowers researchers to address global challenges and drive progress in their regions.
How to Get Started
If you meet the eligibility criteria and have a research proposal that aligns with the fellowship’s goals, don’t hesitate to apply. Submit your application online and take the first step toward an enriching research experience in Germany. For any questions or clarifications, contact the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation at info[at]avh.de.
Keywords: Georg Forster Research Fellowship, sustainable development, postdoctoral researchers, experienced researchers, developing countries, Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, Germany, financial support, research sponsorship, UN SDGs, gender equality in science
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