The DFG's funding instruments offer all actors in the German research system a wide range of access to universities and non-university research institutions. They are differentiated to support individuals at all stages of their research careers.
They are open to researchers worldwide who wish to conduct research in Germany.
With the Global Minds Initiative Germany, the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR) aims to offer international researchers prospects within the German research system. The funding opportunities offered by the German Research Foundation (DFG) and the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation (AvH) create excellent conditions for this. Individuals working at a research institution abroad are eligible to apply.
The DFG's plans are currently based on the Federal Government's medium-term financial framework and the funding pledged by the BMFTR. These are subject to current budget discussions.
The initiative combines existing DFG programmes with new elements. Individual researchers can already apply to the programs mentioned below. In addition, specific funding conditions and expansions to other programmes will be developed and announced here shortly.
If you are interested in receiving funding, we recommend contacting potential host institutions at an early stage. The German Research Institutions (GERiT)(externer Link) information system can help you with your search.
Emmy Noether Programme: Early independence on the path to professorship
The Emmy Noether Programme(interner Link) gives highly qualified researchers the opportunity to satisfy the prerequisites for appointment as a university professor by leading an independent junior research group and performing relevant teaching duties and shall attract outstanding early career researchers (back) to Germany from abroad.
Target group
Postdoctoral researchers up to 4 years after obtaining their doctorate
Funding Duration
6 Years
Extent of Funding
Position as group leader, junior professorship, as well as personnel resources, project-specific equipment, and material resources
Heisenberg Programme: On the final stretch to a professorship
The Heisenberg Programme(interner Link) is directed primarily at researchers who have qualified for aprofessorship. It enables to prepare for a senior academic role while continuing their research work. Four different types of funding are available within the Heisenberg Programme: Heisenberg professorship, Heisenberg position, Heisenberg temporary substitute position for clinicians and Heisenberg fellowship. Once you have been accepted to the Heisenberg Programme, you can select from the funding types and/or combine them during the five-year funding period.
Target group
researchers in all disciplines who have qualified for a professorship by completing the habilitation or an equivalent qualification and who have a track record of outstanding research work
Funding Duration
up to 5 years
Extent of Funding
Position E15 or tenure-track professorship in conjunction with an application for a research grant (doctoral students, project-specific equipment, and materials)
Walter Benjamin Programme: Starting point for an academic career
The Walter Benjamin Programme(interner Link) enables researchers in the postdoctoral training phase to independently conduct their own research project at a location of their choice. The project can be carried out at a research institution in Germany or abroad, with the host institution providing support for the project.
Target group
Postdoctoral researchers immediately after completing their doctorate
"The initiative comes at exactly the right time, enabling leading international researchers to continue their work under excellent conditions while freely choosing their topics and methods. At the same time, it supports the principle of global brain circulation, something that has been actively embraced and promoted by the German research system for many years. And yes – Germany’s research and innovation system stands to benefit, too. But above all, the initiative strengthens the global research community and its chances of success in confronting climate change, forced migration, energy crises, pandemics and much more besides. Through this programme, we are taking a strong and united stand – for freedom, for openness and for the future not only of science and the humanities but of our coexistence and survival.”
Funding opportunities of the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation
The Alexander von Humboldt Foundation also offers funding options facilitated by the Global Minds Initiative: Further Information(externer Link)
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