Are you passionate about sustainability and eager to collaborate with global experts on real-world challenges? The RIFS Fellows Program 2026 in Germany offers a fully funded opportunity for professionals, academics, and change-makers from all over the world to immerse themselves in interdisciplinary research aimed at sustainability transformation.
RIFS Fellows Program 2026
The Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS), located at the GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences in Potsdam, Germany, is inviting applications for its 2026 Fellows Program. This fellowship supports professionals from various sectors, academia, government, civil society, business, media, and the arts who are working on sustainability-related initiatives. It offers a rare chance to live and work in Germany while contributing to innovative, high-impact research.
The fellowship is not only fully funded, but also highly personalized. Fellows are embedded in RIFS research groups and given the freedom to explore transformative ideas in a supportive and intellectually rich environment. Unlike many traditional fellowships, this program values diverse experiences and perspectives over conventional academic pathways alone.
RIFS Fellows Program 2026 Summary
| Category | Details |
| Host Country | Germany |
| Fellowship Location | GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences, Potsdam |
| Host Institute | Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) |
| Program Duration | 6-12 months (extension up to 24 months possible) |
| Eligible Applicants | Open to all nationalities and sectors |
| Fellowship Value | Fully Funded (Stipend, Travel, Accommodation Support) |
| Application Deadline | June 9, 2025 |
| Mode | Full-Time, In-Residence |
| Academic Year | 2026 |
What Is the RIFS Fellows Program All About?
The RIFS Fellows Program provides an international platform for people working on sustainability to connect across disciplines and sectors. Hosted in Potsdam, a hub for climate and sustainability research in Europe, fellows gain access to a dynamic community of scientists and practitioners.
This fellowship is designed not just for academic researchers but also for leaders in public administration, civil society, the arts, and the private sector. Fellows work on self-directed projects while engaging with RIFS research themes such as:
- Democratic Transformations
- Systemic Interdependencies
- Sustainable Science and Policy Interfaces
Through structured collaboration and independent research, fellows help shape actionable pathways for sustainability. The program places a strong emphasis on policy relevance and real-world impact.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
The RIFS Fellows Program 2026 is open to a broad spectrum of applicants. The following criteria must be met:
- Nationality: Open to all countries
- Sectors: Academics, government officials, NGO workers, business professionals, journalists, and artists are encouraged to apply
- Academic Qualification: A PhD or equivalent research experience is required for academic applicants
- Professional Experience: Non-academic applicants must demonstrate 3-5 years of relevant professional work
- Project Proposal: Must align with at least one RIFS research theme
- Engagement: Applicants should express willingness to collaborate with RIFS researchers and contribute to the institute’s intellectual community
Applicants are strongly encouraged to engage with RIFS staff before submission, which can significantly strengthen the alignment of their proposals.
Fellowship Benefits
Selected fellows will receive a comprehensive support package that includes:
- Monthly Stipend (adjusted based on experience and family needs)
- Travel Reimbursement for fellows and immediate family members
- Relocation Assistance, including support for moving expenses
- Housing Support, especially for non-EU participants relocating to Berlin or Potsdam
- Visa and Health Insurance Aid
- School Placement Support for fellows with school-aged children
- Research Resources and access to interdisciplinary RIFS teams
- Extension Option: In exceptional cases, the fellowship can be renewed for a second year
This generous package ensures that fellows can devote their full attention to research and community engagement without financial pressure.
Required Documents
To apply for the RIFS Fellows Program 2026, candidates must submit a complete application package, including:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) listing academic and/or professional accomplishments
- Copy of Passport (photo page)
- Motivation Letter explaining the applicant’s interest and goals
- Detailed Project Proposal tailored to one or more RIFS research themes
- Supporting Materials such as publications, work samples, or a portfolio
Documents must be clear, well-organized, and preferably submitted as PDF files. Proposals that are interdisciplinary and policy-relevant will be viewed favorably.
Step-by-Step Procedure to Apply
Here’s how to apply for the RIFS Fellows Program 2026:
Visit the Official Website: Go to the RIFS fellowship page and carefully review all program details and requirements.
Fill in Personal Details: Complete the online application form, ensuring accuracy in all sections.
Upload Documents: Attach your CV, motivation letter, research proposal, passport copy, and other relevant materials.
Indicate Research Interests: Specify which RIFS research themes or groups you aim to work with. Reach out to group leaders for feedback, if possible.
Accept Terms and Conditions: Read the data protection policy and check the box confirming your agreement.
Submit Application: Click “Send Application” to finalize your submission. You will receive a confirmation email upon successful upload.
Why Choose the RIFS Fellowship in Germany?
- Interdisciplinary Focus: The fellowship allows for deep collaboration across fields of science, policy, civil society, and the arts.
- Reputation for Excellence: RIFS is affiliated with the Helmholtz Association, one of the world’s most respected research networks.
- Real-World Impact: Fellows engage with issues that matter, influencing public policy and sustainability debates.
- Global Network: The program attracts participants from across continents, fostering rich dialogue and future partnerships.
- Living in Potsdam/Berlin: With a vibrant academic culture and strong international presence, the location enhances both professional and personal life.
For more information or to apply, go to: https://www.gfz.de/en/career/job-offers/details/10404
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the RIFS Fellows Program 2026 fully funded?
Yes. It covers a monthly stipend, travel, relocation, accommodation support, and more.
Who is eligible to apply?
Professionals from all countries and sectors, academic and non-academic, are eligible. The key requirement is a relevant project proposal and demonstrable expertise.
Can the fellowship be extended beyond 12 months?
Yes. In exceptional cases, extensions up to 24 months are possible, depending on performance and project scope.
Is a PhD required for this scholarship?
Only for academic applicants. Those from other sectors should show 3-5 years of relevant experience.
What are the core research themes?
Democratic Transformations, Systemic Interdependencies, and Sustainable Science & Policy Interfaces.
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