RIFS Fellows Program 2027 in Germany | Paid Fellowship

The RIFS Fellows Program 2027 in Germany offers a paid international fellowship for individuals from diverse professional and academic backgrounds to work on innovative ideas and sustainability research projects. Around twenty fellows join the Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) annually for a duration of six to twelve months, collaborating with top research groups and expanding their professional networks.

This is a fully funded fellowship. Selected fellows receive a stipend, with the exact amount varying based on seniority and family circumstances. Benefits include relocation support, travel expenses (including for accompanying family members), accommodation support (limited apartments in Potsdam for those not residing in Germany/Europe), visa assistance, health insurance, and comprehensive organizational support throughout the program.

The fellowship is open to applicants from all countries worldwide, including Ethiopia. Eligible candidates include scientists holding a PhD degree or equivalent professional experience, as well as non-academic professionals with at least 3 to 5 years of work experience from sectors such as media, arts, civil society, public policy, and the private sector. Applicants must demonstrate a strong interest in sustainability transformation and innovative research. Proposed projects or activities must align with RIFS's work and contribute to sustainability transformations, specifically connecting with at least one of the Institute’s three major research themes: Sustainability Transformations and Society, Advancing Transdisciplinarity and Co-Creation, or Transforming Human-Earth Interactions.

Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents in English: a Motivation letter, a CV, an Achievements document (up to three pages highlighting educational background, career experience, and major achievements), and a Project proposal. The project proposal is the main part of the application and must use the official template provided by RIFS, explaining the project idea and motivation for joining the institute. An optional annex containing additional materials like publications or portfolios may also be submitted, though the external review committee primarily evaluates the project proposal.

The application process is entirely online. Applicants must submit their applications through the official online application portal available on the RIFS website. Email applications are not accepted. It is strongly encouraged to contact RIFS researchers before applying to ensure the project proposal aligns with the institute’s research work. RIFS will organize two webinars on May 18, 2026, and June 1, 2026, to provide additional guidance. Selected applicants may be invited for interviews in November 2026, with final decisions expected by November or early December 2026. Successful fellows are anticipated to begin their program in Spring 2027, with April 1, 2027, as the earliest possible start date.

Fellows become part of a global network of over 300 professionals from various countries, fostering international collaboration and impactful research. The program offers a unique opportunity to contribute to sustainability-focused solutions for global challenges through diverse approaches, including academic research, policy recommendations, business model development, public dialogue, educational initiatives, outreach activities, or artistic projects.