The CATS Fellowship 2026 in Germany offers a prestigious, fully funded research opportunity for post-doctoral researchers, think tank members, and practitioners working on Turkey-related issues. Hosted by the Centre for Applied Turkey Studies at the German Institute for International and Security Affairs in Berlin, this fellowship supports rigorous, policy-relevant research on topics like digitalisation, critical raw materials, energy transition, and Turkish foreign policy.
The Centre for Applied Turkey Studies (CATS) is based at Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik (SWP) in Berlin. It serves as a hub for policy research, advising political decision-makers in Germany and Europe and publishing peer-reviewed research. Fellows collaborate with SWP and CATS researchers, gaining access to Berlin’s international research community.
CATS Fellowship Benefits
- Monthly grant of €3,000
- Budget for research trips
- Travel costs to and from Berlin covered
- Additional support if accompanied by children
- Collaboration with researchers at CATS and SWP
- Publication in peer-reviewed CATS and SWP publications
- Access to Berlin’s international research community
CATS Fellowship Eligibility Criteria
- Post-doctoral researchers, think tank members, and practitioners working on Turkey-related issues
- Researchers without a PhD but with a solid track record in Turkey-related research may apply
- Evidence of extensive research experience and significant publications required
- Preference given to applicants who have not previously received CATS funding in cases of equal merit
Documents Required
- Cover Letter – 1 page, indicating preferred start date and duration
- Scanned copies of academic transcripts.
- A research proposal should be no more than five pages, 1.5 spaces, 12 points, Times New Roman, and include the following topics:
- title, goals, and policy relevance.
- Review of the literature and current research
- Framework for methodology and theory
- List of references
- Updated Curriculum vitae (CV) or Resume
Research Theme
The CAT fellowship funds creative endeavors in the following areas:
- Digitalisation and Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Critical Raw Materials (CRMs)
- Energy Transition and Climate Change
- Turkish Foreign and Security Policy amid Geopolitical Turmoil
How to Apply for CATS Fellowship?
- Submit a single PDF document containing: cover letter, research proposal (max 5 pages), CV with publication list, copies of academic transcripts/diplomas
- Email application to [email protected] by 30 April 2026
- Applications must be in English or German
- Incomplete applications will not be considered
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the CATS Fellowship 2026 in Germany. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply, based on the official program information.
What is the CATS Fellowship?
The CATS Fellowship is a fully funded research opportunity offered by the Centre for Applied Turkey Studies in Berlin, Germany, for post-doctoral researchers, think tank members, and practitioners focusing on Turkey-related issues like digitalisation, critical raw materials, energy transition, and foreign policy.
Who is eligible to apply?
Eligible applicants include post-doctoral researchers, think tank members, and practitioners working on Turkey-related topics. Researchers without a PhD but with a solid track record in Turkey-related research may also apply. Evidence of extensive research experience and publications is required.
What are the financial benefits?
Benefits include a monthly grant of €3,000, a budget for research trips, covered travel costs to and from Berlin, additional support if accompanied by children, collaboration with CATS and SWP researchers, and publication opportunities in peer-reviewed journals.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline for applications is 30 April 2026. Applications must be submitted as a single PDF document via email to [email protected] by this date.
How do I apply?
Submit a single PDF containing a cover letter, research proposal (max 5 pages), CV with publication list, and copies of academic transcripts/diplomas. Email it to [email protected] in English or German. Incomplete applications are not considered.
What research topics are supported?
Supported topics include Digitalisation and Artificial Intelligence, Critical Raw Materials, Energy Transition and Climate Change, and Turkish Foreign and Security Policy amid Geopolitical Turmoil, as outlined in the official call.
What is the duration of the fellowship?
Fellowships are granted for a period of six to twelve months, starting in September 2026 at the earliest. Fellows are expected to reside in Berlin for the duration, except during planned research trips.
Are there language requirements?
The working languages are English and German. Applications and research proposals must be submitted in either English or German.
What selection criteria are used?
Applications are evaluated based on academic and professional merit, relevance to the research fields, coherence and feasibility of the project, and the value of its public outreach dimension. Preference is given to new applicants in cases of equal merit.
Where can I find more information?
For further information or application-related queries, contact [email protected]. The official program details are available on the CATS website at https://www.cats-network.eu/.
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