RIFS Fellows Program 2027 in Germany (Fully Funded)

The Germany RIFS Fellowship 2027 is now open for applications, offering an exceptional fully funded opportunity for researchers, policymakers, journalists, artists, business professionals, and civil society leaders to work on global sustainability challenges. Hosted by the Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) at the GFZ Helmholtz Centre in Potsdam, Germany, the fellowship supports international professionals working on transformative solutions for some of the world’s most urgent environmental and social issues.

The programme provides financial support, institutional access, collaboration opportunities, relocation assistance, and the chance to work closely with leading sustainability researchers in Europe.

The application deadline for the RIFS Fellowship 2027 is 21 June 2026.

RIFS Fellowship 2027 Overview

• Host Country: Germany
• Host Institution: Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS), GFZ Helmholtz Centre
• Location: Potsdam (and Berlin region)
• Programme Type: Fully Funded International Fellowship
• Duration: 6 to 12 months (extendable up to 24 months in some cases)
• Application Deadline: 21 June 2026
• Fellowship Year: 2027 Intake

Selected fellows will receive:

• Travel expenses to and from Germany
• Travel support for family members
• Monthly stipend for living expenses
• Relocation support
• Assistance with housing arrangements
• Visa support
• Health insurance coverage
• Access to international research networks
• Opportunity to work with global experts and professionals

The RIFS Fellows Program is open to:

• PhD holders
• Researchers
• Professionals with equivalent experience
• Policy experts
• Media professionals
• Civil society members
• Artists and innovators

This fellowship is primarily intended for postdoctoral-level researchers and experienced professionals rather than undergraduate or master's students.

Applicants working in sustainability-related fields are encouraged to apply. Relevant areas include:

• Sustainability studies
• Environmental science
• Public policy
• Social sciences
• Climate studies
• Media and communication
• Human development
• Innovation and technology
• Arts and sustainability
• Human-Earth interactions

Research Themes

Applicants are required to submit project proposals related to one of the following research themes:

Sustainability Transformations and Society

This area focuses on creating sustainable changes within societies, institutions, and communities.

Advancing Transdisciplinarity and Co-Creation

This theme supports collaborative approaches that combine multiple disciplines and stakeholder perspectives.

Transforming Human-Earth Interactions

Research under this theme aims to understand and improve the relationship between humans and environmental systems.

The fellowship is open to applicants from all countries worldwide.

International candidates from any nationality are eligible to submit applications.

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Candidates from all countries are eligible
• Scientists should hold a PhD or equivalent experience
• Non-academic professionals should have at least 3–5 years of work experience
• Applicants from media, arts, public administration, private sector, and civil society can apply
• Must demonstrate a strong interest in sustainability transformation
• Should have innovative ideas and leadership potential
• Project proposal must align with RIFS research themes

Required Documents

Applicants typically need the following documents:

• Motivation letter
• Updated CV
• List of achievements
• Project proposal
• Optional supporting annex

How to Apply

Interested applicants can apply online through the official RIFS application portal.

Steps to apply:

1. Visit the official RIFS application website.
2. Create an account or log in.
3. Complete the online application form.
4. Upload required documents.
5. Submit a project proposal aligned with the research themes.
6. Review all details carefully.
7. Submit the application before the deadline.

Why Apply for the RIFS Fellows Program?

The RIFS Fellows Program offers participants a chance to work in an international research environment while contributing to solutions for global sustainability challenges. Fellows gain valuable experience, establish professional connections, and collaborate with experts from different sectors and disciplines.