Gerda Henkel Foundation Germany Research Fellowship 2025
The Gerda Henkel Foundation Research Fellowship is a prestigious opportunity for scholars engaged in historical and humanities research. The fellowship supports innovative and high-impact projects that address historical, cultural, and social themes, fostering scholarship in these fields. Established by the Gerda Henkel Foundation in 1976, this fellowship is open to researchers worldwide, including doctoral candidates, postdoctoral scholars, and established academics.
The 2025 fellowship program aims to empower researchers by providing financial and academic resources to undertake groundbreaking projects that contribute to global understanding and academic excellence.
Overview of the Gerda Henkel Foundation Research Fellowship
The fellowship is primarily targeted at researchers specializing in disciplines within the humanities, such as history, archaeology, cultural studies, and philosophy. In addition to traditional humanities research, the foundation supports projects that address contemporary societal challenges, such as migration, digital transformations, and conflicts.
Key Objectives
- Foster advanced research in history and related disciplines.
- Encourage global collaboration in the humanities.
- Promote projects with a societal impact.
Fellowship Benefits
The Gerda Henkel Foundation Research Fellowship offers comprehensive support to enable researchers to focus entirely on their projects.
Financial Benefits
- Research Funding
- Covers costs for travel, research materials, and project-related expenses.
- Living Allowance
- Monthly stipends range between €2,000 and €3,600, depending on the applicant’s qualifications and career stage.
- Institutional Support
- The fellowship may include additional grants for affiliated institutions to cover indirect project costs.
- Conference and Networking Support
- Funding for attending academic conferences, workshops, and other networking opportunities.
Duration
- Fellowships are typically awarded for 1 to 24 months, depending on the scope and requirements of the project.
Priority Research Areas
While the fellowship supports a broad range of topics within the humanities, certain areas are prioritized:
History and Humanities
- Political history, social history, and cultural history.
- Interdisciplinary research combining humanities with other fields.
Contemporary Issues
- Migration and displacement.
- Digital societies and their challenges.
- Conflict resolution and post-conflict rehabilitation.
Special Programs
The foundation occasionally introduces special programs focusing on urgent global issues. For 2025, these include:
- Security, Society, and the State: Projects addressing security challenges in modern societies.
- Democracy and Human Rights: Research on the development, challenges, and future of democracy worldwide.
Eligibility Criteria
The fellowship is open to scholars worldwide, regardless of nationality, provided they meet the following requirements:
Academic Qualifications
- Doctoral Candidates: Must be enrolled in a recognized PhD program with an approved research proposal.
- Postdoctoral Scholars: Should have completed a PhD and demonstrate significant contributions to their field of study.
- Established Researchers: Scholars with a proven track record of impactful research.
Research Relevance
- The proposed project must align with the foundation’s focus areas and demonstrate originality, feasibility, and academic significance.
Institutional Affiliation
- While not mandatory, applicants are encouraged to have an institutional affiliation (university, research institute, etc.).
Application Process
Prepare a Research Proposal
The proposal should clearly outline:
- Objectives and relevance of the project.
- Methodology and timeline.
- Expected outcomes and societal impact.
Gather Supporting Documents
Applicants must submit the following:
- Detailed CV, including academic achievements and publications.
- Recommendation letters from academic supervisors or mentors.
- Proof of institutional affiliation (if applicable).
- Budget breakdown and justification for requested funds.
Submit Application Online
- Applications must be submitted via the Gerda Henkel Foundation online portal.
Application Deadlines
- The deadline for the 2025 intake is expected to be 15 January, 2025. Applicants are advised to check the foundation’s website for updates.
Visit the official website
Selection Process
Applications are rigorously evaluated by a panel of experts based on:
- Academic Merit: The originality and significance of the research project.
- Feasibility: Clear methodology and realistic timelines.
- Societal Relevance: Potential impact of the research on global or local challenges.
Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews or asked to provide additional information.
Life as a Gerda Henkel Fellow
Research Freedom
Fellows have the flexibility to conduct research at institutions of their choice or in the field, with minimal administrative burdens.
Global Networking
- Opportunities to collaborate with scholars from around the world.
- Access to exclusive events, including seminars, workshops, and conferences.
Alumni Network
- Fellows join an extensive alumni network, facilitating ongoing collaboration and career development.
Impact of the Fellowship
The Gerda Henkel Foundation Research Fellowship has a long history of supporting projects that:
- Advance understanding of historical and cultural issues.
- Provide insights into contemporary societal challenges.
- Influence policy and education in humanities and related disciplines.
Notable projects funded in the past include studies on global migration patterns, digital cultural preservation, and peacebuilding in post-conflict societies.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Craft a Clear Proposal
- Emphasize the relevance and potential impact of your research.
- Demonstrate Feasibility
- Provide a realistic timeline and detailed budget.
- Showcase Your Expertise
- Highlight your academic achievements, publications, and prior research experience.
- Seek Strong Recommendations
- Obtain letters from mentors or colleagues familiar with your work.
- Adhere to Guidelines
- Ensure your application is complete and submitted before the deadline.
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