DAAD GSSP Scholarships in Germany

• Monthly stipend of EUR 1,400

• Country-specific travel allowance

• Health, accident, and liability insurance

• Study and research allowance

• Optional final grant for up to six months after the funding period

• Access to iDiv’s research resources and yDiv’s structured PhD program

• Opportunity to participate in international research networks and interdisciplinary training.

• Eligible Countries: Applicants must be from countries of the Global South.

• Acceptable Course or Subjects: The scholarship will be awarded in the field of society and nature, related to biodiversity research.

• Admissible Criteria: To be eligible, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

  • Hold an above-average Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field.

  • Show strong motivation for pursuing a PhD in integrative biodiversity research.

  • Have not previously completed a PhD.

  • Be proficient in English.

  • Be a non-German citizen and must not have resided in Germany for more than 15 months prior to the application deadline.

  • Have graduated no longer than six years before October 2025.

  • Be committed to developing an independent research proposal aligned with one of the iDiv research groups.

  • Candidates should plan for no more than 25% of their research time outside Germany.

How to apply for DAAD GSSP Scholarships?

• Submit your complete application via the yDiv application portal by 30 September 2025 (6:00 pm CET).

• Required documents include:

  • Research proposal (max. 2–3 pages)

  • Research schedule with planned fieldwork or international stays

  • Supervisor selection (from listed PhD project PIs)

  • Letter of recommendation (DAAD template)

  • CV

  • Letter of motivation (max. 2 pages)

  • Bachelor’s and Master’s degree certificates and transcripts

  • Proof of English proficiency (optional but recommended)

  • Certificates of internships or publications (optional)

• Selected candidates will be invited for online interviews in October 2025.

• Nominated applicants will then submit final documents to DAAD for final approval.