The DLGS PhD Scholarship is a fully funded doctoral programme at the Dresden Leibniz Graduate School in Germany, dedicated to research on sustainable urban mobility transformations. It invites outstanding graduates to develop innovative doctoral projects addressing challenges like digitalisation, automation, and the integration of transport and spatial development. The scholarship covers a full-time 3-year research period with a monthly stipend and additional support for travel and research activities.
The Dresden Leibniz Graduate School (DLGS) is a joint interdisciplinary facility of the Leibniz Institute of Ecological Urban and Regional Development (IOER) and TU Dresden. It promotes excellence in spatial sustainability science and transformative leadership. The programme emphasises systemic perspectives, data-driven methods, participatory approaches, and the co-creation of solutions, fostering a new generation of researchers equipped to tackle complex urban mobility issues.
DLGS PhD Scholarship Benefits
- Full-time scholarship for a duration of 3 years
- Monthly stipend of €1,515
- Support for travel and research activities
DLGS PhD Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- Master’s degree in a relevant discipline (e.g., transport studies, urban planning, geography, data science, urban informatics, economics, business, sociology, political science, transition studies)
- First Master’s degree obtained within the last three years
- Above-average academic performance (equivalent to German ‘gut’ or higher)
- Research proposal clearly aligned with the IOER research profile
- Identification of potential supervisors at TU Dresden/IOER (prior contact not required)
- For transdisciplinary projects linked to IOER activities in the Dresden/Saxony region, German language proficiency at C1 level is required
How to Apply for DLGS PhD Scholarship?
- Review the detailed application requirements on the DLGS website at www.dlgs-dresden.de
- Prepare required documents (likely including CV, transcripts, research proposal, etc.)
- Submit your complete application online before the deadline of September 1, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the DLGS PhD Scholarship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the DLGS PhD Scholarship?
The DLGS PhD Scholarship is a fully funded doctoral programme offered by the Dresden Leibniz Graduate School in Germany. It supports outstanding graduates pursuing research in sustainable urban mobility transformations. The scholarship provides a monthly stipend of €1,515 for 3 years, along with travel and research funding, and focuses on interdisciplinary, challenge-driven doctoral projects.
Who can apply for this scholarship?
Applicants must hold a Master’s degree (obtained within the last three years) in a field relevant to spatial and mobility transformations, such as transport studies, urban planning, geography, data science, urban informatics, economics, sociology, or political science. A strong academic record (equivalent to German ‘gut’) and a research proposal aligned with the IOER profile are required.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline for applications is September 1, 2026. All materials must be submitted online by this date. Late or incomplete submissions will not be considered. It is advisable to prepare your research proposal and supporting documents well in advance to ensure a complete application.
How much funding does the scholarship provide?
The scholarship provides a full-time stipend of €1,515 per month for three years, plus additional support for travel and research activities. This allows doctoral candidates to concentrate on their research without financial concerns. There is no separate tuition fee, as the programme is research-focused.
What are the research topics eligible?
Doctoral projects must address at least one of four challenge-driven topics: (1) public policy and governance structures, (2) sustainable and economically viable business models, (3) integrative tools using data-driven approaches, or (4) integrated perspectives linking policy, private sector, and civil society. All proposals should contribute to sustainable urban mobility transformations.
Is there a language requirement?
For projects incorporating transdisciplinary elements linked to IOER activities in the Dresden/Saxony region, German language proficiency at the C1 level is required. For other projects, English is typically the working language, but candidates must check specific supervisor requirements. The application process and proposal should normally be in English.
What should the research proposal include?
The proposal must present an original, well-founded doctoral project relevant to the IOER research profile and at least one of the four defined topics. It can employ qualitative or quantitative methods, including empirical analysis, modelling, or conceptual development. Interdisciplinary approaches are expected; transdisciplinary designs are encouraged where feasible.
How do I apply?
Applications are submitted via the DLGS online system. You should first visit the official website (www.dlgs-dresden.de) for the detailed call and application guidelines. Required materials typically include a research proposal, CV, transcripts, and possibly a letter of motivation. All documents must be uploaded before the deadline.
When does the programme start?
The selected doctoral candidates will start their programme on March 1, 2027. The scholarship supports three years of full-time research, beginning on that date. Successful applicants should be prepared to relocate to Dresden and commence their work promptly.
Who can I contact for more information?
For additional information, you can contact Dr. Nora Gortcheva, the DLGS Scientific Coordinator, via email at [email protected]. She can assist with questions about the application process, eligibility, or research alignment. The DLGS website also provides detailed application requirements and updates.
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