Heinrich FC Behr Stipends 2025 offer an exceptional opportunity for motivated medical students to engage in groundbreaking cancer research at the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) in Heidelberg. As Germany’s foremost biomedical institution focused on oncology, DKFZ provides a world-class research environment where students can work alongside top international scientists. These prestigious stipends are aimed at students enrolled in a human medicine program who are ready to take a one-year academic break to complete their doctoral thesis (Dr. med.) in the field of cancer research.
With the Heinrich FC Behr Stipends 2025, recipients gain access to DKFZ’s state-of-the-art laboratories and benefit from its strong collaboration with Heidelberg University and leading hospitals. The program is designed for individuals passionate about making a real difference in cancer prevention, diagnosis, and therapy. Selected scholars will not only contribute to pioneering research but also receive mentorship and support in an interdisciplinary and innovative academic setting—positioning them for future success in both clinical and research careers.
Brief Description
- Country: Germany
- Host: German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) & Medical Faculty of Heidelberg University
- Department: Various recognized laboratories at DKFZ
- Course Level: Doctoral
- Award: 12-month stipend equivalent to the maximum BAföG rate
- Deadline: 15 July 2025
Benefits of Heinrich FC Behr Stipends 2025
- A fully funded 12-month stipend covering living costs (at the maximum BAföG rate)
- Opportunity to conduct research in one of Europe’s leading cancer research institutions (DKFZ)
- Gain early-career exposure to translational oncology in an international environment
- Strong mentorship and scientific guidance from DKFZ researchers.
Eligibility
- Eligible Countries: All nationalities are eligible
- Acceptable Course or Subjects: The scholarship will be awarded to students of human medicine conducting cancer research at DKFZ
- Admissible Criteria:
- Applicants must be enrolled in a human medicine program.
- Must be highly motivated to pursue cancer research.
- Applicants must be willing to take a one-year leave of absence from their medical studies.
- Must have an approved research project with a DKFZ group or division.
- Recommendation letters from both the DKFZ group leader and faculty supervisor are required.
- The student must confirm that no academic credits will be earned during the stipend period.
How to Apply for Heinrich FC Behr Stipends 2025
Submit the following documents in English as a single PDF file via the DKFZ job portal:
- Completed cover sheet (template provided on the portal)
- Curriculum Vitae
- Independently written project outline (max. 5 pages)
- Letter of recommendation from the scientific (faculty) supervisor
- Letter of recommendation from the DKFZ group/division head
- Confirmation that no academic credits will be earned during the research year
- Academic transcripts
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The Heinrich F.C. Behr Stipends 2025 offer two 12‑month scholarships covering BAföG‑level support for medical students who pause studies to complete a Dr. med. thesis at a top cancer research centre. Deadline 15 July 2025, with September presentations and rigorous selection.
What are the Heinrich F.C. Behr Stipends 2025?
The Heinrich F.C. Behr Stipends 2025 are scholarships for medical students to undertake a one-year leave from studies to complete a doctoral thesis in cancer research at an esteemed German research centre. Two awards are available, covering a 12-month stipend at BAföG maximum rate.
Who is eligible to apply for 2025?
Applicants must be enrolled in a human medicine programme and demonstrate exceptional academic qualification and strong interest in cancer research. You must commit to a year’s leave from your studies and secure acceptance by a recognised research laboratory at the centre.
How many scholarships are awarded in 2025/26?
For the academic year 2025/26, two Heinrich F.C. Behr Scholarships will be granted. This allows two outstanding medical students to carry out intensive doctoral research within the German Cancer Research Centre’s labs for a full year.
What is the stipend amount?
Scholarship recipients receive a 12‑month stipend equalling the maximum BAföG rate. This amount aligns with Germany’s student support funding and ensures full financial coverage during the research year.
What documents are required to apply?
Submit in English as a single PDF: cover sheet (provided template), CV, up to five‑page project outline, recommendation letters from your faculty supervisor and the centre’s division head, confirmation of no academic credits earned, and academic transcripts.
What is the application deadline?
The application deadline for the 2025/26 term is 15 July 2025. Applications received after the deadline will not be considered, so ensure your complete English PDF is submitted through the official portal by this date.
How is the selection process conducted?
An internal selection committee reviews all submissions. Top candidates are invited for short presentations in early September. The committee recommends funds allocation to the foundation boards, which makes the final decision.
What commitment is expected from recipients?
Recipients are expected to take a full-year leave from their regular medical curriculum to pursue their doctoral (Dr. med.) thesis in the research environment. No academic credits can be gained during this stipend year.
What kind of research environment is provided?
The stipend allows participants to join a recognised laboratory at a leading cancer research institution in an international, interdisciplinary environment. The setting fosters translational oncology and supports cutting‑edge basic-to-clinical application research.
What happens after presentations?
Following the September presentations, the selection committee drafts funding recommendations. These are submitted to the foundation’s boards for final approval. Successful applicants are then officially notified and begin their stipend year.
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