The RIFS Fellows Program 2027 offers a prestigious opportunity for researchers, professionals, artists, policymakers, and changemakers from around the world to contribute to sustainability transformations. Hosted by the Research Institute for Sustainability at the GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences in Potsdam, Germany, this international fellowship supports innovative, interdisciplinary projects that address global sustainability challenges.
The fellowship program is one of the defining features of RIFS, bringing together approximately ten fellows each year from diverse sectors of society. Fellows collaborate closely with RIFS research groups, develop innovative ideas, and engage in transformative research aimed at advancing sustainable futures.
RIFS Fellows Program Benefits
- Monthly fellowship stipend
- Financial and organizational support for fellowship activities
- Opportunity to work within an international research community
- Networking opportunities with global experts and institutions
- Support for housing in Potsdam/Berlin
- Support for visa and residence procedures
- Support for health insurance
- Support for school placements (if applicable)
RIFS Fellows Program Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants from all sectors and countries are encouraged to apply
- Researchers and academics
- Public administration professionals
- Private sector experts
- Civil society representatives
- Media professionals
- Artists and creative practitioners
- The proposed project must align with the work of at least two RIFS research groups
- Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact RIFS researchers before applying
- All applications must be submitted in English
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following PDF documents:
- Project Proposal: Must use the official RIFS template
- Core document outlining the project and motivation
- CV and Achievements (Maximum 3 pages)
- Educational background
- Career highlights and achievements
- Optional Annex Publications
- Portfolio
- Additional supporting information
How to Apply for RIFS Fellows Program
- Visit the official Research Institute for Sustainability website
- Download the official project proposal template
- Prepare all required documents in English
- Complete the online application form
- Upload all PDF documents
- Submit your application before the deadline
- Applications submitted via email will not be accepted
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the RIFS Fellows Program. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the RIFS Fellows Program 2027?
The RIFS Fellows Program 2027 is a fully funded fellowship hosted by the Research Institute for Sustainability in Potsdam, Germany. It supports researchers, professionals, artists, and changemakers to work on interdisciplinary sustainability projects for 6 to 12 months, extendable up to 24 months.
Who can apply for the RIFS Fellows Program?
Applicants from all sectors and countries are welcome, including researchers, public administration professionals, private sector experts, civil society representatives, media professionals, and artists. The proposed project must align with at least two RIFS research groups.
What benefits does the RIFS Fellows Program provide?
Fellows receive a monthly stipend, financial and organizational support for activities, housing assistance in Potsdam/Berlin, visa and residence support, health insurance, and school placement help. They also join an international research community with networking opportunities.
What is the deadline for the RIFS Fellows Program 2027?
The application deadline is 21 June 2026 at 23:59 CET. All applications must be submitted online before this date. Late or email submissions are not accepted.
How do I apply for the RIFS Fellows Program?
Visit the official RIFS website, download the project proposal template, prepare all required documents in English, complete the online application form, upload PDFs, and submit before the deadline. Email applications are not accepted.
What documents are required for the RIFS Fellows Program application?
Applicants must submit a project proposal using the official RIFS template, a CV and achievements (maximum 3 pages) including educational background and career highlights, and optional annexes such as publications, portfolio, or additional supporting information.
How long is the RIFS Fellowship?
The fellowship duration is 6 to 12 months, with the possibility of extension up to 24 months. Fellows work closely with RIFS research groups on transformative sustainability projects.
Do I need to contact RIFS researchers before applying?
Yes, applicants are strongly encouraged to contact RIFS researchers before applying to ensure their project aligns with the work of at least two research groups. This increases the chances of a successful application.
Is the RIFS Fellows Program open to international applicants?
Yes, the program is open to international applicants from all countries. The host institute is located in Potsdam, Germany, and all applications must be submitted in English.
What is the focus of the RIFS Fellows Program?
The program focuses on sustainability transformations, bringing together diverse fellows to develop innovative, interdisciplinary projects that address global sustainability challenges. Fellows collaborate with RIFS research groups and engage in transformative research.
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