RIFS Fellows Program 2026 in Germany | Fully Funded

RIFS Fellows Program 2026 is now accepting applications for its fully funded international fellowship in Germany, offering a unique opportunity for global researchers and professionals to work on sustainability transformations. Hosted by the Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) in Potsdam, this prestigious fellowship runs for 6 to 12 months and invites around 20 fellows each year from diverse disciplines and regions. It’s an exceptional chance to collaborate, innovate, and explore forward-thinking solutions to today’s most pressing environmental and social challenges—all without the need for an application fee or IELTS requirement.

Selected fellows will live and work in the scenic Potsdam area, gaining access to world-class research facilities and a vibrant academic community. The RIFS Fellows Program 2026 provides full financial support, including travel, accommodation, and a monthly stipend, ensuring participants can focus entirely on their research and contribution to sustainability initiatives. Whether you’re an academic, policymaker, or practitioner, this fellowship is your gateway to making a meaningful global impact. Read on to discover the eligibility criteria, benefits, and how to apply.

Fellowship Summary

• Host Country: Germany
• Location: Potsdam
• Duration: 6 to 12 Months
• Benefits: Fully Funded
• Deadline: 9 June 2025

Financial Benefits

The Program Covers:

• Travel Expenses to/from Germany
• Travel Expenses for Family
• Stipend for Living Expenses
• Relocation Support
• Assistance with housing, Visas
• Health Insurance

Eligibility Criteria

• The Fellowship is open to all the Nationals. Candidates from around the world can apply.
• Scientists with a PhD or equivalent experience.
• Non-academic professionals with 3-5+ years of work experience.
• People from media, arts, public policy, private sector & civil society.
• Visionaries with a passion for sustainability transformation.

Required Documents

• Motivation letter
• CV
• Achievements
• Project Proposal
• Optional Annex

Research Area

RIFS encourages applications from a diverse sector globally, including those in science, public administration, the private sector, civil society, media, and the arts.

Focus Area

To address the multifaceted challenges of Sustainability. Applicants’ project must relate to one of three RIF’s research themes:

• Sustainability Transformations and Society
• Advancing Transdisciplinarity and Co-Creation
• Transforming Human-Earth Interactions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The RIFS Fellows Program 2026 offers a fully funded 6–12 month fellowship in Potsdam, Germany, for professionals across various sectors to conduct sustainability research. Benefits include a stipend, travel and relocation support, and housing assistance.