Philipp Schwartz Initiative For At-Risk Researchers 2027 in Germany | Fully Funded — Alexander von Humboldt Foundation
Some researchers cannot simply apply to funding programmes through the normal channel because conditions at home have made that impossible. The Philipp Schwartz Initiative exists specifically for them, funding research fellowships in Germany for academics facing genuine, serious threats in their own countries.
About the Fellowship
Launched by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation together with Germany’s Federal Foreign Office, the initiative helps researchers who can no longer safely or freely work in their home country continue their academic careers at a German host institution. Unlike most scholarships, researchers cannot apply directly. Instead, a German university or research institution identifies a threatened researcher, agrees to host them, and submits the application on their behalf.
Eligible host institutions include public universities, Max Planck Institutes, Helmholtz Institutes, Leibniz Institutes, Fraunhofer Institutes, and other recognized German research bodies.
Fellowship Benefits
- A research fellowship of up to 24 months, with a possible extension of a further 12 months under a co-financing arrangement
- A stipend sufficient to cover living costs in Germany during the fellowship
- Integration into a host institution’s research environment and academic community
- Support navigating relocation, since many fellows arrive under urgent circumstances
- A pathway toward longer-term academic positions in Germany or elsewhere after the fellowship
Eligibility Criteria
- Must hold a doctorate or comparable academic qualification
- Must be facing significant and imminent danger that prevents continuing research safely in the home country
- Must not have been resident outside the home country for more than five years at the time of application
- Must come from a country outside the European Union
- Must have sufficient language skills to carry out the proposed research project, and realistic potential for longer-term academic integration
Fields of Study Covered
The initiative is open to researchers across all academic disciplines, since eligibility depends on the researcher’s personal situation and academic qualifications rather than a specific subject area.
Required Documents
- Application submitted by the host institution, not the researcher directly
- Evidence of the researcher’s doctoral qualification and academic record
- Documentation supporting the claim of serious and imminent threat or persecution
- A research plan developed with the host institution
- Reference materials or letters supporting the researcher’s academic standing
- Any available documentation of prior academic positions or publications
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Identify a German university or eligible research institution willing to act as a host
- Share your academic background, research interests, and personal circumstances with the prospective host
- Work with the host institution to develop a research plan suited to their facilities
- Have the host institution submit the formal application to the Humboldt Foundation on your behalf
- Provide any additional documentation requested during the review process
- Prepare for relocation and fellowship logistics once a decision is made
Selection Process
Applications, submitted by host institutions rather than researchers themselves, are reviewed for the researcher’s academic qualifications, the genuineness and severity of the threat they face, and the feasibility of the proposed research plan at the host institution. Given the urgency involved for many applicants, the foundation aims to process applications efficiently once submitted.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
- Reach out to multiple potential host institutions, including university international offices and relevant research institutes, rather than relying on a single contact
- Prepare a clear academic record and, where safely possible, documentation supporting your situation
- Be specific with potential hosts about your research area, since a strong academic fit improves the chance an institution will agree to host you
- Stay in contact with organizations that support at-risk academics, since they often have direct relationships with eligible host institutions
- For researchers not facing this situation but still seeking flexible funded research time in Germany, see the Humboldt Research Fellowship for Postdoctoral Researchers instead
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply directly to the Humboldt Foundation myself?
No, only eligible German host institutions can submit applications under this initiative, though researchers can and should contact institutions directly to find a host.
What counts as being at risk?
The foundation looks for evidence of significant and imminent danger that prevents a researcher from continuing their work safely in their home country.
Is this initiative only for researchers from certain regions?
No, it is open to qualifying researchers from any country outside the European Union facing genuine threats, regardless of region.
How long does the fellowship last?
The initial fellowship runs up to 24 months, with a possible 12-month extension through a co-financing arrangement.
Do I need a completed PhD to apply?
Yes, a doctorate or a comparable academic qualification is required.
What kind of institutions can host a fellow?
Public and state-recognized universities, along with major German research organizations such as Max Planck, Helmholtz, Leibniz, and Fraunhofer institutes, are eligible hosts.
Can family members accompany an at-risk researcher to Germany?
Many hosting arrangements include support for relocation, though specific family provisions depend on the host institution and individual circumstances.
What happens after the fellowship ends?
Many fellows move into longer-term academic positions in Germany or elsewhere, often supported by networks built during the fellowship period.