Max Planck Fellowship 2026 applications are now open for outstanding international researchers to join the Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics (Albert Einstein Institute) in Germany. This fully funded fellowship provides the opportunity to conduct advanced research for up to two years at the AEI campuses in Potsdam and Hannover. The fellowship aims to attract exceptional postdoctoral scholars from around the world who are eager to explore groundbreaking work in the field of gravitational physics.
Through the Max Planck Fellowship 2026, fellows will actively participate in world-class scientific projects alongside leading experts in their discipline. The program offers a competitive financial package covering all living expenses, with no application fee required. This prestigious fellowship not only enhances research excellence but also opens doors to long-term collaboration within one of Europe’s most respected scientific communities.
Benefits of Max Planck Fellowship 2026
- Three different stipends depending on the Research Track record and achievements:
- €2,500
- €3,000
- €3,600
- Travel Costs.
- Subsidy cost of Extra baggage allowance.
Eligibility Criteria for Max Planck Fellowship 2026
- The program accepts applications from all foreign post-doctoral scientists regardless of their nationality.
- The fellowship is specifically for researchers who have completed their PhD/doctorate.
- Fellows must stay for up to two years at the institute (Potsdam and/or Hannover).
Required Documents
- Cover letter
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- List of publications
- Statement of past, current, and future research interests.
How to Apply for the Max Planck Fellowship 2026
- Visit the official website
- Check eligibility and research requirements carefully.
- Prepare your updated CV, academic transcripts, and research proposal.
- Contact a potential Max Planck host institute or professor for supervision.
- Submit your complete application through the official portal before the deadline.
- Wait for selection results via official email notification.
The fellowship invites outstanding post-doctoral researchers from abroad to spend up to two years at a leading German institute in Potsdam or Hannover. It offers a net monthly stipend of €2,500–€3,600 plus travel subsidies, supports research in gravitational physics and includes full support services, with a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion.
What is the Max Planck Fellowship and who is it for?
The fellowship is offered by a leading German research institute and targets outstanding foreign post-doctoral researchers. It invites excellent scholars from abroad to spend up to two years in Germany.
What is the duration of the fellowship?
Successful fellows may spend up to two years at the host research institute in Germany under this programme.
What stipend and benefits does the fellowship provide?
The programme offers a net monthly stipend at three possible levels, depending on track record and achievements: €2,500, €3,000 or €3,600. Travel and baggage costs are subsidised.
Which fields of research does this fellowship cover?
It covers research in gravitational physics, including all aspects of Einstein’s theory of general relativity, modelling, data-analysis, experiment and astrophysics of gravitational waves.
What are the main application requirements?
Applicants must submit a cover letter, CV, list of publications and a research statement of past, current and future interests. They need to provide names of three referees who will upload letters. PDF submission preferred.
What types of scientists are eligible to apply?
The fellowship is targeted at outstanding foreign post-doctoral researchers—i.e., non-German scientists who have a strong record and wish to work abroad.
How does the institution support newcomers and integration?
The host institute offers services for newcomers including housing, childcare, and integration support through its local science park welcome service.
Are all departments accepting applications at any time?
Some departments accept applications continuously; others operate specific processes. Applicants should check the relevant department’s form and timing.
Does the fellowship promote diversity and inclusion?
Yes. The institution is committed to increasing the number of women and individuals with disabilities, and encourages applications from such qualified candidates.
Where will the research be conducted geographically?
Fellows will spend their research period at one of the institute’s locations in Potsdam or Hannover, Germany.
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