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Platzhalter

IScO Newsletter October 2025
Platzhalter

Dear Reader,

Fall is a great time to get outside: hike the Hardtwald or Oberwald, head to the Palatinate (Pfälzerwald) or the Black Forest, or cross into France’s Vosges. In the Palatinate, chestnut harvest events run from October 1 to November 15; the 60 km Keschdeweg offers shorter suggested routes (info in German). Many Black Forest guides are in German. On weekends, forest huts run by local associations (Naturfreundehaus) and Vesperstuben are good for a bite during or after your hike. It’s also wine season: pair a hike with a Weinfest or visit a Besenwirtschaft; a broom outside marks a seasonal wine pub serving simple regional dishes. Popular spots may require reservations for groups.

While you’re planning hikes and wine outings, keep two practical dates in mind: Sunday, 26 October — clocks go back one hour at 03:00 → 02:00 (end of daylight saving), so update any analog clocks, ovens, and car/thermostat timers; On Saturday, 1 November, All Saints’ Day is a public holiday in Baden-Württemberg. Most shops (including groceries), banks, and offices are closed; public transport runs on holiday/Sunday schedules.

With so many highlights this fall, there is plenty to explore in this newsletter. In this newsletter, you’ll find updates on upcoming IScO events, KIT news and announcements, and external news that could be of interest to you, including exciting funding opportunities. Plus, we’ve gathered the latest calls for proposals that might just spark your next project. Whether you're looking for new collaboration opportunities or staying up-to-date with cultural initiatives, there’s something for everyone!

Stay curious and take care!
Platzhalter

IScO Excursion: Where should we go in 2026 – Share your Ideas

We’re currently thinking about the next IScO excursions for 2026—and we want to hear your ideas! Have an idea? Let us know which places you’d love to explore in 2026. We’re looking forward to your suggestions!
Platzhalter

IScO´s Excursion: Casino Baden-Baden – Exclusive Guided Tour

Join us for an exclusive guided tour of the Casino Baden-Baden on October 25, 2025 – discover its rich history, stunning architecture, and famous guests, while experiencing the unique atmosphere of one of Europe’s most glamorous casinos.
Platzhalter

IScO´s Excursion: "In the Name of the People – Karlsruhe Has Spoken"

Join us for IScO’s excursion “In the Name of the People – Karlsruhe Has Spoken” on November 15, 2025 – explore Germany’s highest courts on a 2.5-hour guided walk, learn about crime stories and famous cases, and discover how the city’s history is tied to the law.

Overview
IScO Excursions

News and Announcements from KIT
External News and Announcements 
Current Calls for Proposals

IScO Excursions

IScO Excursion: Where should we go in 2026?

We’re currently thinking about the next IScO excursions for 2026—and we want to hear your ideas! The destination should be within two hours by regional train from Karlsruhe, reasonably priced (no ICE or long-distance trains), and suitable for a relaxed and safe group activity.

An IScO excursion is not just about sightseeing—it’s an opportunity to learn more about German culture, society, and history, to experience new places together with fellow international researchers, and to take a short break from academic life.

The trip will take place outside the university.

Have an idea? Let us know which places you’d love to explore in 2026. We’re looking forward to your suggestions—and maybe we’ll turn one of them into our next excursion!

If questions arise, please write us an e-mail. 
Please feel free to share this offer among your network!

IScO´s Excursion: Casino Baden-Baden – Exclusive Guided Tour

Discover one of Europe’s most glamorous casinos during an exclusive 40-minute guided tour – while play is actually taking place! Step into the world of 19th-century elegance, inspired by French architecture such as Versailles, and admire the original furniture, chandeliers, and ceiling paintings. Learn about famous guests like Dostoevsky, Marlene Dietrich, and European aristocracy, and get an introduction to today’s gaming culture, rules, and etiquette.

  • Date: Saturday, October 25, 2025
  • Meeting time: 4:20 PM (at Karslruhe main train station)
  • Venue: Casino Baden-Baden
  • Cost: 10 € per person for the guided tour; plus €5 entrance fee per person. No train ticket is included in this price.
  • Requirements: Minimum age 21, valid ID/passport, dress code required
  • Registration: Registration required. Please also register any friends, colleagues or family members separately (for organizational reasons).

Dresscode
Gentlemen are required to wear long trousers and a jacket; shirt and tie are recommended. Sports and functional shoes, open shoes, and printed or multi-colored casual shirts are not permitted.
For ladies, casual or sportswear as well as flip-flops are not permitted.
You will receive more information one week before the event takes place.

If questions arise, please write us an e-mail. 
Please feel free to share this offer among your network!

IScO´s Excursion: "In the Name of the People – Karlsruhe Has Spoken"

The so-called “Walk to Karlsruhe” has become almost proverbial – after all, Karlsruhe is home to Germany’s most important courts: the Federal Constitutional Court, the Federal Court of Justice, and the Federal Prosecutor’s Office.

This 2.5-hour guided tour presents these institutions in a way that is easy to understand for non-lawyers and connects them to current developments. You will also gain insights into crime scenes and offenders, while learning about the city’s founding history in connection with the topic of law.

(Please note: there are no interior visits of the buildings as part of this tour.)

  • Date: Saturday, November 15, 2025
  • Meeting time: 11.30 AM
  • Venue: Karlsruhe
  • Cost: 10 € per person for the guided tour.
  • Registration: Registration required. Please also register any friends, colleagues or children that you plan to bring along in a separate form (for organizational reasons). 

We are looking forward to meeting you!

If questions arise, please write us an e-mail. 
Please feel free to share this offer among your network!

News and Announcements from KIT

Research Travel Grant

What?
Are you planning a stay abroad for research or teaching and looking for suitable funding opportunities? Both doctoral researchers and postdocs at KIT can benefit from a range of scholarships for international research stays or for hosting international fellows in Germany. These programs aim to foster early international research experience, support networking, and strengthen academic careers.

Who can apply?

  • Doctoral Researchers
    International internships abroad enable doctoral researchers to gain early experience in an international research environment. Visiting fellowships are aimed at young researchers from abroad who wish to come to Germany for a research stay. Take advantage of these opportunities and expand your international research profile with a research travel or visiting researcher scholarship.
  • Postdocs
    Postdoctoral researchers can apply for a variety of funding opportunities to broaden their experience in international research environments. International internships abroad allow postdocs to strengthen their networks and expertise, while visiting fellowships target young researchers from abroad who wish to come to Germany for a research stay.

Where?
Universities or companies abroad (worldwide).

When?
Three- to six-month research stays. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Funding

  • Supported activities: Three- to six-month research stays at a university or company abroad.
  • Scope of funding: The grant amount is based on DAAD funding rates and depends on the duration of the stay as well as the destination.
  • The Research Travel Grant cannot be used to fund participation in congresses and conferences.

If you have any questions regarding the Research Travel Grant, please write an e-mail to the Team of the Research Travel Grant. Beate Schmoch is also available for individual advising.

Welcome Event for Doctoral Researchers

What?
Have you just started your doctoral research period? And would like to know more about the services offered at KIT for doctoral researchers?
Then come and join other German and international KIT PhD students at the welcome event for doctoral researchers. In a presentation, there will be plenty of information on how to best profit from the doctoral research period (including information on research stays abroad and services offered at KIT).
In addition, there will be two brief testimonials by more advanced fellow researchers. They will share their experiences with you concerning doing the PhD at KIT and will be happy to answer your questions. At the end of the English-language event, there will be time for some networking during a get-together involving snacks and drinks.

When?
November 10, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM

Where?
Campus South, Seminar room A+B, Bldg. 30.95

Please register for the event for organizational reasons.

If you have further questions, please contact Jutta Klein-Hitpaß (KHYS) via e-mail. 

KHYS Future Days 2025

What?
What does the future of academic freedom look like? And which skills will shape tomorrow’s science? Join the KHYS Future Days for two inspiring days of exchange, discussion, and networking for doctoral researchers and postdocs.

When?
November 18 - 19, 2025

Where?
Campus South and online (Zoom)

If you have further questions, please contact Eva Lichtenberger (KHYS) via e-mail. 

IMPULSE Summer Research Program for International Students from Partner Universities: Call for Projects

What?
IMPULSE is KIT’s own Summer Research Program, including a scholarship and a socially engaging support program. It enables Bachelor’s and Master’s students from the University of Waterloo (Canada) and the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (USA) to complete research internships at KIT labs.

Where?
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), engineering and natural sciences labs; partner institutions: University of Waterloo and UNC Charlotte.

When?
Placements run April/May–August 2026.

Who can apply?

  • Hosts at KIT: PhD candidates, postdocs, and scientists in engineering or natural sciences who wish to supervise an intern.
  • Interns: Bachelor’s/Master’s students from Waterloo or UNC Charlotte (handled via partner universities).

Funding (What IMPULSE offers)

  • Scholarship: Monthly scholarship to help cover accommodation and living expenses, funded by IMPULSE’s external sponsors.
  • Accommodation: IStO arranges suitable housing for incoming students.
  • Mentoring & integration: IStO supports travel preparations and assigns a student tutor who organizes social activities (excursions, museum visits, group outings, social evenings).
  • Insurance: Via Studierendenwerk, students are covered by liability insurance, statutory accident insurance (study-related activities), and recreational accident insurance (private activities). Adequate health insurance is required for enrollment.
  • Feedback workshop: In early August, interns present their research results and reflect on their KIT experience to supervisors, students, and sponsors.

Additional requirements
Call for project proposals: Please share your project (to host an intern) in October each year for placements in the following year.

Deadline: October 2025 

Submission
Please refer to the IMPULSE website for the project submission process and the required documents.

If you have further questions, please contact Sarah Arnoldi/Natalia Schüller via e-mail. 

KIT Science Week 2025

As the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) celebrates its 200th anniversary, we warmly invite you to the third edition of the KIT Science Week – an exciting hands-on and interactive event for curious minds of all ages and for the whole region. Here, science becomes tangible – through workshops, lectures, discussions, and interactive activities.

When?
October 14–19, 2025

Where?
KIT South Campus & various locations in Karlsruhe

What is it about?
Under the motto “City of the Future”, everything revolves around smart urban planning and architecture, sustainable energy and mobility, digitalization and urban innovations, democracy, and a livable coexistence. Participation and fairness are also key focuses.

Various stations invite participants to try their hand as urban planners, experience an outdoor escape game, or build battery cells, fine dust measurement boxes, and recycled seating. New forms of housing and concepts for sustainable living are also on the program, along with the “Science on the Rocks” tour through Karlsruhe’s pub scene. In addition, the ARTE Film Night will feature documentaries about the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow’s city – from social change to new lifestyles.

More than half of the events are specifically designed for children, teenagers, families, and school classes.

Highlights include (Websites only available in German):

  • Opening Event with Keynote
    • Tuesday, October 14, 2025, 7:30 PM at the KIT Audimax, Straße am Forum 1, 76131 Karlsruhe
    • The week begins with a keynote by Sabine Knierbein, Professor of Urban and Cultural Studies at the Vienna University of Technology. She will speak at the KIT Audimax about public spaces as opportunities for societal change and why participation plays a central role. The subsequent panel discussion and accompanying exhibition, open from 6:00 PM, will provide visitors with inspiration for accessible, vibrant, and future-proof cities.
  • Expert Congress: “Urban Transformation”
    • Wednesday, October 15 – Friday, October 17, 2025
    • International researchers will share their findings with students and the public, discussing what the city of tomorrow could look like. In a public “Keynote in Dialogue” on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at 6:30 PM, the researchers invite lively discussions on the topic “City of the Future.”
  • Autonomous Driving on Trial: “13 Questions – Culture of Debate on the Field”
    • Thursday, October 16, 2025, 7:00–9:00 PM at Kulturzentrum TOLLHAUS, Alter Schlachthof 35, 76131 Karlsruhe
    • Is autonomous driving in local transport the solution to overcrowded buses, driver shortages, and poor air quality? Or are its benefits overestimated? In the interactive debate format “13 Questions”, strong opinions clash. Moderator Salwa Houmsi will guide the evening.
  • Dialogue with Citizens: “Global Turbulence, Local Participation”
    • Saturday, October 18, 2025, 2:00–6:00 PM, TRIANGEL Transfer | Kultur | Raum, Kaiserstraße 93, 76133 Karlsruhe
    • Citizens will work together with researchers to consider what Karlsruhe needs to remain a livable city in the future. Experience and ideas are welcome – urban development requires participation. A dialogue for everyone who wants to have a voice and help shape the city. Registration is required.
  • Diverse Activities for Families
    • Tuesday, October 14 – Sunday, October 19
    • Experience research together as a shared adventure for young and old in workshops, guided tours, and many other activities for families!

Call for Applications: FA(ST)2Africa Mobility Scholarships – internal KIT funding program within the strategy fund project

What?
FA(ST)2Africa is a strategic initiative of the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) that aims to strengthen international collaboration with partner institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa in the fields of research, education, and innovation. The project supports the development of long-term, equitable, and impactful partnerships between KIT and African institutions.

The FA(ST)2Africa Mobility Scholarships provide funding for research and cooperation stays at KIT. Applications are welcomed from both excellent researchers (length of the stay one to three months) with the aim to initiate sustainable collaborations – such as joint publications, pilot projects, or new partnership activities and university staff (length of the stay one to two weeks) engaged in international cooperation interested in fostering inter-institutional strategic cooperation. 

Who can apply?
Applicants must hold a PhD or equivalent qualification, have a strong academic or cooperation-focused profile, and have lived and worked in a Sub-Saharan African country for at least five years. The administrative staff must be in a unit that deals with the development or support of partnerships with international institutions. Both target groups must not hold a permanent position in Germany.

Who can submit applications?
Applications must be submitted in collaboration with a KIT host who is part of the FA(ST)2Africa project. Individual applications without a KIT host will not be considered.
Funding duration:
1 to 3 months

Deadline: October 31, 2025

If you have any questions, please contact Dr. Justine Nyarige or Dr. Jörg Helmschrot via e-mail. 

Helmholtz Global Fellows Program

What?
KIT has successfully applied for the new Helmholtz Global Fellow Program, funded by the Initiative and Networking Fund of the President of the Helmholtz Association. The program offers advanced and high-performing international scientists as well as engineers and technical staff from renowned foreign research institutions a fellowship at a Helmholtz Center for an initial period of up to two years. The International Affairs Unit manages the program at KIT and has designed a framework for the global fellows coming to KIT.

Who is the target group?
The program offers advanced and high-performing international scientists as well as engineers and technical staff from renowned foreign research institutions a fellowship.The focus lies on candidates from the US. 

What does the funding include?

  • €50,000 per person/year (lump sum), max. 2 years
  • Co-funding by the hosting KIT institute is expected (to enable a full-time position and cover relevant working costs)
  • Eligible costs: personnel, materials, and—if applicable—investments related to the fellowship

How to nominate?
All KIT scientists are invited to nominate candidates. The KIT Executive Board selects nominations to forward as full applications to Helmholtz HQ.

Deadline: Nominations can be submitted now until October 24, 2025.

Please send complete proposals to the following email address: helmholtzglobalfellow@intl.kit.edu

If you have any questions, please contact Dr. Klaus Rümmele, Pascale Kohler and/or, Oliver Kaas.

EPICUR Citizen Science Workshop and Expert Consultation

What?
The EPICUR Hubs and the KIT Graduate School CuKnow of the KIT Center for Humans and Technology welcome Citizen Science experts Josep Perelló, Anne Kathrine Overgaard, and Thomas Kaarsted to Karlsruhe. 
The program includes the workshop “From Idea to Impact – incl. EU Funding Strategies!”, where participants will explore how Citizen Science connects disciplines and bridges research and society to address global challenges. Through hands-on activities, idea exchange, and expert input, they will learn how to make their Citizen Science projects impactful and fundable. The introduction is also available as a webinar (without interactive group work).
In addition, “Citizen Science in Practice – 1:1 Expert Consultations” offer 20-minute sessions with Citizen Science experts, providing tailored feedback and practical tips for project planning and funding applications. Participation is free of charge, and each format can be booked separately.

Who can participate?
Researchers of all career stages and disciplines, university research support staff, local NGOs, members of civil society, municipal policymakers, library staff, and educators.

When?
Friday, October 17, 2025
Workshop: 9:00–12:30 AM
1-on-1 Expert Consultation: 1:30–3:30 PM

Where?
TRIANGEL Transfer | Kultur | Raum, Kaiserstraße 93, 76133 Karlsruhe

Registration
Registration required by October 2nd.

If you have any questions, please contact Kirsten Rosa or Hoai Truong via e-mail.

LGF Completion Scholarships in 2026

What?
A call for LGF Completion Scholarships (Landesgraduiertenförderung) will open in mid-September 2025.

Who can apply?
Doctoral researchers at KIT in the final phase of their doctorate, without other financing options for completing their dissertation.

What does the funding include?
Up to six months of funding for the completion of the doctoral dissertation. Full details, application form, and requirements will be published with the official call.

Funding at a glance

  • Monthly rate: €1,750 (incl. flat rate for materials & travel; from January 2026)
  • Family allowance: €400/month for first child, €100/month for each additional child
  • Duration: Up to 6 months
  • Start date: Flexible, but the earliest possible start date is January 1, 2026

Deadline
A one-time call for applications for LGF Completion Scholarships (funding period 2026) is open. The deadline for submissions is: Wednesday, October 15, 2025.

Important note:
There will be no call for first-year LGF funding in 2026. 

If you have further questions, please contact Andreas Hahmann, Karlsruhe House of Young Scientists (KHYS), via e-mail. 

E-Learning Courses: FIT-Career Modules

Expand your academic and professional skill set with the ongoing FIT-Career modules offered by Karlsruhe House of Young Scientists (KHYS). The modules are designed specifically for doctoral researchers and postdocs. These workshops offer valuable insights into publishing, science communication, industry, and leadership.

Available Courses: 

Module: Getting Published
Language: English

Module: Basics of Science Communication
Language: German and English

Module: Conferences, Presenting and Networking. Communicating Your Research with Impact
Language: English

Module: Short-Cuts to Industry: Initial Insights into Communication
(including Moderating, Negotiations, Storytelling etc.)
Language: German and English

Module: Short-Cuts to Industry: Initial Insights into Management Methods
(including Project Managing, Design Thinking etc.)
Language: German and English

Module: Short-Cuts to Industry: Initial Insights into Leadership
(including New to the Leadership Role, Giving Feedback, Team Development etc.)
Language: German and English


Learn more about the E-Learning Courses of the KHYS.  

Aspirant Grant (Doctoral Researcher/Postdoc) by Karlsruhe House of Young Scientists (KHYS) 

Asprirant Grant (Doc/Postdoc) enables KIT professors and research group leaders to invite promising scientists who are interested in doing research at KIT as a doctorate researcher/postdoc in the near future to spend one month on-site. During the visit, both parties receive the chance to get to know each other and to discuss the possibility of doing a doctorate/postdoc at KIT. The funding measure is part of the KHYS Postdoc Office and is sponsored by the Initiative and Networking Fund of the Helmholtz Association.

Target group: KIT professors and research group leaders

Funding: KHYS will cover the travel and accommodation expenses for the aspirant’s stay

Deadline: Applications for both measures may be handed in anytime as long as funds are available.

Contact: Denisa Kičmerová (KHYS)

Please feel free to share this offer among your network!

External News and Announcements

Events in Karlsruhe

Do you want to get in touch with other English Speaking people?:
  • Karlsruhe's English-Speaking Meetup Group is a means for anyone to organize events and activities. The most popular regular event is the monthly Stammtisch where you can meet nice people who speak English in a relaxed atmosphere. Start is 6:30 PM until around 10:30 PM. The October Stammtisch is on Tuesday, October 14th at Wolfsbräu in Karlsruhe. Other popular events are hiking and jazz concerts. Anyone can participate or organize, but it helps the organizers if you sign up first – and remove your name if you can no longer attend!
  • The American Library has regular events in English for kids and adults.
    For adults:  LitNight (Oct 7 & 21), New(s) Views (Oct 14), MovieTalk (Oct 8), Poetry?Please! (Oct 28).
    For kids and teens: Storytime in English for Kids 3 to 5 (Oct 8 & 22), Reading Time (Age 6 & Up) (Oct  10 & 24), TeenTime (Oct 10 & 24).
Do you want to improve your German?:
What events are coming up in Karlsruhe?:
  • October 14, 2025:  The Franco-German AI Conference AIxIA at the Smart Production Park in Karlsruhe. AIxIA brings together thought leaders, industry pioneers, AI experts, academia, and policymakers to dive into the latest advancements and strategies in AI development and implementation.For this 6th edition the topic is 'Beyond Intelligence – The Next Era of AI'. In exciting sessions on current AI topics, engaging panel discussions, and insightful keynotes we will discuss cutting-edge AI developments, regulatory challenges, and transformative innovations that will shape the future of AI across industries.
    Get your ticket here.
  • October 16: Reading in English:  Candace Carter at the American Library at 6:30 PM. In cooperation with the Literaturtage Karlsruhe (Website in German). We Save the World – It’s Gonna Be a Wild Ride!  In a future ruled by the World Bank – no countries, no families, no books, no music – a band of misfits on an island off the coast of France sets out to claim what was lost. United by friendship and armed only with music and non-violence, they vow “To love evil to death.” Free.
  • October 16 – 20: Jazz Festival ’25 (Website in German) in Karlsruhe at the jazzclub.
  • October 18 – 26: Pride Pictures Queer Film Festival.
  • October 19: Art auction to benefit the AIDS-Hilfe at Fleischmarkthalle in the Schlachthof. The art can be viewed online or live. Bidding live. For a good cause!
  • October 22 – 26: ZeitGenuss – a festival of contemporary music. Almost all performances are free. In various venues throughout the city.
  • October 23: American Library Book Club from 7 to 9 PM at the American Library. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald will be discussed. Please sign up and please read the book beforehand.
  • October 24: Halloween Specials at the American Library. Reading Time at 4:30 and the famous Hogwarts Library Halloween Night starting at 7 PM (sign up begins at 2 PM on Oct 10 by phone only). Sign up required.
  • October 25 – November 1: Fall holidays for the Karlsruhe school system.
  • October 25 - November 2: offerta (Website in German) at the Messe Karlsruhe from 10 AM to 6 PM daily. The largest consumer trade show in the region. Lots of hands-on things to try and taste. Admission charged
  • October 26: Return to standard time - be sure to set your clocks back one hour – if you still have any analog clocks or watches.
  • October 31: Halloween is not a German holiday, but it is often celebrated in the Irish Pubs. Some neighborhoods do trick-or-treating, but usually only if the parents organize it amongst themselves.
  • October 31 – November 10: Karlsruher Mess' is the big temporary amusement park in the eastern part of Karlsruhe at the Messplatz on Durlacher Allee. Fun for the whole family with rides, food etc.
  • November 1: All Saint’s Day is an official holiday in Baden-Württemberg, but not all German states. All government institutions, stores (including grocery stores), banks etc. are closed in Baden-Württemberg. It’s a Saturday, so be sure to get our shopping done by Friday.

Info Talks on DFG Funding Opportunities for Research Careers

Germany’s largest independent research funding organisation offers funding opportunities for all career stages between doctorate and professorship. Join their online talk and get to know the DFG and its funding portfolio for postdocs. PhD candidates and postdocs of all disciplines are welcome to join!

Upcoming talks in the Prospects Series (in english)

  • 11/12/2025, 04:00 - 05:30 p.m. CET – DFG Funding Opportunities for Postdocs 

Congress Travel Program by DAAD 

With funding from the Federal Foreign Office, the program promotes active participation in international scientific congresses and conferences abroad (in person and online). Active participation is encouraged. Active participation is defined as the presentation of one's own scientific contribution (poster, lecture or panel).

Target group: Postdoctoral researchers and doctoral candidates. 

Scholarship benefits:
Depending on the travel distance, you can choose from four categories of funding with different funding benefits: 

  • Online participation
  • Presence short distance (up to 600 km as the crow flies, excluding the United Kingdom)
  • Presence medium distance (601 - 3,700 km as the crow flies, plus the United Kingdom)
  • Long-haul presence (from 3,700 km as the crow flies)
These funding categories are designed to make it easier for you to participate in a climate-friendly congress.

Helmholtz Associate Postdoc Network (HAPN)

The network warmly invites all Helmholtz postdocs to become active members of HAPN.

Working Group 1 Communications – Responsible for fostering open communication within HAPN and with the broader Helmholtz community, ensuring postdocs stay informed about resources, initiatives, and relevant developments.

Working Group 2 Networking – Focused on building connections and organizing events that support collaboration and knowledge-sharing across institutes including career centers and Helmholtz Juniors (HeJus), as well as connecting with external organizations.

Working Group 3 Perspectives – Committed to enhancing the postdoc experience by advocating for fruitful career pathways, effective development opportunities, and consistent standards across Helmholtz Centers.

Join HAPN to build a strong, connected, and supportive network for all Helmholtz postdocs.

For further questions, you can contact HAPN via e-mail.  

DFG Information for the Scientific Communitiy 

The Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG, German Research Foundation) continues to support researchers who have fled their home countries. The aim is to enable their short-term integration into the German research system so that they can continue their academic work.

Target group: Doctoral researchers who fled their home country in the last three years can apply for a Walter Benjamin Fellowship.

Funding:
  • Gain experience at a German academic institution by supervising a research project to establish a foundation for advancing in the German academic system.
  • Receive individual career support from the host institution.
  • Integrate into ongoing projects in various DFG funding programs.
Special Program Ukraine:

The DFG is extending the Special Program Ukraine until further notice. Through this funding opportunity, Ukrainian researchers (project leaders) who are in Ukraine and whose research is still possible can receive special support. You can find more information on the Special Program Ukraine here.

Current Calls for Proposals

Campus France - Make Our Planet Great Again (MOPGA) 

What?
MOPGA is an emblematic postdoctoral mobility program in France. This ninth MOPGA call for applications for Visiting Fellowships, funded by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs (MEAE), in partnership with the French Ministry of Higher Education and Research (MESR) and implemented by Campus France, will welcome international early career researchers wishing to conduct a research project in France, thereby promoting their collaboration with leading French research institutions. 
Five major research areas are eligible: Energy transition, Climate change sciences and sustainability science, Earth system sciences, Societal challenges related to environmental issues.

Deadline: December 12, 2025

If you have further questions, please contact Manuella Werp via e-mail.

HIDA Mobility Program: Call for Applications

What?
The HIDA Mobility Program enables fully funded short-term research stays (1–3 months) for all Helmholtz employees at another Helmholtz Center or at international partner institutions in Norway and South Korea. Projects must have a clear link to (applied) data and information sciences. The program aims to foster interdisciplinary collaboration, facilitate the exchange of expertise, and support the exploration of new research domains.

Who can apply?
PhD researchers, postdocs, senior scientists, and administrative staff at Helmholtz Centers working in fields with a strong connection to data and information sciences.

Applications are currently accepted for the following funding lines:

  • Helmholtz Internal Mobility Program (Exchange between Helmholtz Centers): Allows Helmholtz researchers and administrative personnel who work with a strong link to the data/information sciences to spend a research/project stay of up to three months at another Helmholtz Center to broaden their expertise and initiate new collaborations. PhDs, Postdocs, Senior Scientists as well as administrative personnel are eligible to apply.For an overview of the 18 Helmholtz Centers and their expertise in Data Science and AI, visit the Coming to Helmholtz page.
    Information on Helmholtz scientists who are open to hosting researchers within the HIDA Mobility Program can be found in the Helmholtz Hosts database.
  • Norway Mobility Program: Enables research stays from 1-3 months at one of the 17 institutes of the Norwegian Artificial Intelligence Research Consortium (NORA), our partner in Norway. PhDs, Postdocs and Senior Researchers as well as administrative personnel at Helmholtz Centers are eligible to apply for the program.
  • South Korea Program (new): Enables research stays from 1-3 months at one of 22 research institutes of the Korean National Research Council for Science and Technology (NST), our partner in Korea. PhDs, Postdocs and Senior Researchers as well as administrative personnel at Helmholtz Centers are eligible to apply for the program.

Funding
The program covers travel and accommodation expenses of up to €2,000 per month.

Additional requirements / selection criteria

  • The proposed project must demonstrate a clear data and information science link.
  • Applicants should aim to strengthen interdisciplinary exchange and initiate or deepen collaborations.
  • Hosts should ideally be listed in the Helmholtz Host Database.

Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Submission
Applications can be submitted through the HIDA Mobility Program portal. 

Call for Helmholtz Hosts: If you are a Helmholtz scientist working with data science and would like to be listed in the Helmholtz Host database in order to welcome scientists in your group, please write an e-maill to hida.mobility@helmholtz.de.

If you have further questions, please contact Stefanie Gruber-Sliva via e-mail.

Helmholtz AI - Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Unit - 2025 Helmholtz AI Project Call

What?
At the core of the Helmholtz AI mission is fostering cross-field creativity by stimulating collaborative research projects in applied machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI). In line with this vision, the annual Helmholtz AI Project Call, funded by the Helmholtz Association's Initiative and Networking Fund (INF), is designed to offer crucial support in bringing these projects to life. Researchers across the Helmholtz Association have the chance to secure seed funding for high-risk, high-gain scientific endeavors, paving the way for cutting-edge discoveries. We hope that these project calls help you develop enriching partnerships and exciting new project ideas.

Deadline: November 13, 2025

If you have further questions, please contact Manuella Werp via e-mail.

BPI France – BMWE: 12th German-French Call for Proposals for Joint Research and Development Projects with Medium-Sized Enterprises

What?
Bpifrance and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE) intend to support joint German-French research and development (R&D) projects aimed at developing innovative products, processes, or technical services across all technology and application areas. Eligible for funding are R&D projects in which new products, technical services, or processes with strong market potential are developed and subsequently transformed into marketable products after the project’s completion.

Deadline: December 3, 2025

Further information is provided by BMWE / ZIM (Websites are only available in German).

If you have further questions, please contact Manuella Werp via e-mail.

ANR-DFG 2026 - French-German Collaboration for Joint Projects in Natural, Life and Engineering Sciences (PRCI)

What?
The French Agence Nationale de la Recherche (ANR) and the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG; German Research Foundation) have agreed to continue publishing annual calls for French-German projects in the natural, life and engineering sciences (excluding space technology, nuclear research and defence). Responsibility for the administrative processing and the review process for proposals submitted under these calls alternates annually between ANR and the DFG.

Deadline: March, 2026 (October 14, 2025 for application announcement on the French side)

If you have further questions, please contact Manuella Werp via e-mail.

Faculty Mobility Program (Baden-Württemberg – Connecticut): Call for Applications 2026

What?
Short-term mobility funding to initiate or deepen research cooperation between higher education institutions in Baden-Württemberg and Connecticut. Visits should ideally also include activities with students and/or doctoral researchers (e.g., talks, workshops). Note: doctoral candidates themselves cannot be funded under this program.

Where?
Partner institutions in Baden-Württemberg and the following institutions in Connecticut: University of Connecticut, Central Connecticut State University, Eastern Connecticut State University, Southern Connecticut State University, Connecticut College, Trinity College, Wesleyan University, University of Hartford, Yale University, Yale Divinity School.

When?
Calendar year 2026; visit length 3–10 days (arrival and departure each count as half a day).

Who can apply?
Academic staff (researchers/faculty) from the nine research universities and six Universities of Education (Pädagogische Hochschulen) in Baden-Württemberg, and from the participating institutions in Connecticut, who wish to actively contribute to the state partnership and strengthen bilateral collaboration.

Funding

  • Travel grant: €1,200 (lump sum)
  • Daily allowance for local costs: €150/day (arrival and departure day = 0.5 day each)

Additional requirements / selection criteria

  • Clear added value for initiating or reinforcing research collaboration.
  • Convincing justification for host/host institution choice and the visit’s importance for future cooperation.
  • Visibility for the state program is desirable (e.g., activities involving students/doctoral researchers).
  • Selection by a committee appointed by the Ministry of Science, Research and the Arts Baden-Württemberg (MWK).

Deadline: November 25, 2025

Submission
Email applications as a single PDF attachment to: elisabeth.trnka@zuv.uni-heidelberg.de.
The complete application includes:

  • Application form with a project summary (max. 200 words)
  • CV with publication list (in English)
  • Detailed project description incl. justification of host choice and relevance for future collaboration (max. 3 pages, in English)
  • Invitation letter from the host

If you have further questions, please contact Ms. Elisabeth Trnka-Hammel, International Relations Office, Heidelberg University, via e-mail or by phone (+49 6221 54 12740).

Save the Date: German Week 2026 at the German Jordanian University (GJU)

What?
German Week brings together representatives of German partner universities and GJU colleagues for exchange, collaboration and networking. Last year’s strong participation significantly contributed to the success and great atmosphere; new networks were formed.

Where?
German Jordanian University (GJU): Madaba and Amman, Jordan.

When?
May 17–21, 2026

Who can apply?
Representatives of German partner universities (e.g., faculty, researchers, International Office staff, academic and administrative leadership).

This is a Save the Date. Any registration deadlines, required documents and information on the submission process will be announced.

Impressions from 2025 (photos & recap)
GJU Project Office at German Week 2025 — Exchange, Encounters and Common Perspectives

Opportunities for Early-Career Researchers: Research in the USA with Fulbright (Website only in German)

What?
The Fulbright Doctoral Program offers the opportunity to conduct a four- to six-month research project at a U.S. university or research institution as part of your doctoral studies. The program aims to support international research experience for early-career researchers and connect them to the prestigious global Fulbright network.

Where?
Universities and research institutions in the United States.

When?
Research stays must start between August 1 and December 31, 2026.

Who can apply?
Doctoral candidates from all academic disciplines who plan to carry out an independent research project in the U.S.

Funding

  • Monthly stipend: €2,400 for living expenses
  • Additional benefits:
    • Health and accident insurance
    • Free Fulbright J-1 visa sponsorship
    • Membership in the prestigious international Fulbright network

Additional information / opportunities
An information session will be held on 16 October 2025, 15:00–16:00 (CET). Participants are invited to register via the program website.

Deadline: November 5, 2025

Required documents
Details on the required application documents can be found on the program website.

Submission
Applications are submitted online via the Fulbright application portal.

If you have further questions, please contact Fulbright via e-mail. 

Scholarship Program of the Baden-Württemberg State Parliament for Students, Early-Stage Researchers and Interns from Baden-Württemberg and Israel — Call for Applications 2026

What?
Since 1988, to commemorate the pogrom of 9 November 1938, the State Parliament of Baden-Württemberg has provided the Ministry of Science, Research and the Arts (MWK) with scholarship funds to strengthen Germany–Israel relations. Funding is available for study periods, research projects, internships, study trips, and events within the framework of partnerships between higher education institutions in Baden-Württemberg and Israel.

Where?
Higher education institutions in Baden-Württemberg and Israel.

When?
Funding is provided for the 2026 financial year (1 January – 31 December 2026). No transfer of unspent funds to 2027 is possible. However, follow-up projects continuing into 2027 can apply for funding for the next period.

Who can apply?
Higher education institutions in Baden-Württemberg may apply for funding for:

  • Students enrolled full-time at a higher education institution in Baden-Württemberg or Israel
  • Early-stage researchers, defined as doctoral candidates or researchers up to two years after completing their doctorate
  • Interns enrolled full-time at a higher education institution in Baden-Württemberg or Israel

Applications must realistically take into account current travel and security advice from the Federal Foreign Office.

Funding

  • Scholarship rates:
    • €900/month for students (Bachelor’s and Master’s)
    • €1,200/month for early-stage researchers
  • Events: Up to €5,000 per application
  • Study trips: Up to €5,000 for students and/or early-stage researchers
  • “Teachers for the Future” program: Universities of Education can apply for up to €15,000 for a one-week study trip to Israel as part of the curriculum.

Travel expenses for accompanying faculty must be covered by the home institution. Students are not required to make a personal contribution, though institutions may decide otherwise.

Additional requirements / selection criteria
The program aims to prevent antisemitism and foster intercultural understanding between Germany and Israel.
For individual funding, applicants must show a strong personal interest in the program and address how they will share their experiences with their academic community. Social engagement (voluntary activities) is also considered.
For events and study trips, selection criteria include promotion of intercultural exchange, integration into curricula or research projects, sustainability, and the institution’s own financial contribution.

Deadline: November 17, 2025

Submission
Please see the official call for applications for the required documents. Applications must be submitted electronically by the rectorate or central administration of the higher education institution to: 📧poststelle@mwk.bwl.de
Please reference: “Scholarship program of the Baden-Württemberg State Parliament”.

If you have further questions, please contact Ms. Mareen Knappe via e-mail or by phone (+49 711 279 3116). 

JSPS Summer Program 2026: Call for Applications 

What?
The JSPS Summer Program offers early-career researchers the opportunity to conduct research in Japan during the summer of 2026. 

Who can apply?

  • Advanced master’s students who intend to pursue a doctorate
  • Doctoral candidates (formal acceptance as doctoral student required)
  • Postdoctoral researchers, if the PhD was obtained within six years before April 1, 2026

What does the funding include?
Research stay in Japan with support from the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS). Details on financial support will be provided in the official call.

Duration: June 15 – August 25, 2026

Deadline: October 25, 2025 (applications must be submitted to DAAD)

Further information is provided by DAAD (Website only available in German).

If you have further questions, please contact the JSPS Bonn Office via e-mail.

NTU AI-for-X Postdoctoral Fellowship 2025

What?
The NTU AI-for-X Postdoctoral Fellowship (AI4X-PDF), jointly supported by Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and Singapore’s National Research Foundation (NRF), is a prestigious programme designed to attract and empower the world’s brightest early-career researchers.

This fellowship supports outstanding scientists who harness Artificial Intelligence (AI) to accelerate breakthroughs across science, technology, engineering, and mathematics including medicine (STEM). Through AI4X-PDF, we aim to cultivate the next generation of research leaders working at the intersection of AI and STEM, driving innovation and strengthening Singapore’s AI-for-Science ecosystem.

Who can apply?
Applicants with a PhD (or equivalent) conferred in 2022 or later in any STEM field. Requirements include a strong academic record, a compelling research proposal integrating AI, and the identification of an NTU faculty member as project mentor. Selected fellows must be available to start by March 31, 2026.

What does the fellowship include?

  • Funding for up to 4 years
  • Competitive remuneration and benefits
  • SGD 250,000 research grant
  • Continued funding if transitioning to a tenure-track or equivalent role during the award period
  • Access to NTU’s AI platforms, research facilities, and computing resources
  • Structured AI training, mentorship by NTU faculty, and coaching on university-level teaching

Deadline: October 31, 2025 (23:59 Singapore Time, UTC+8)If you have further questions, please contact Fellowships & Awards, Research Support Office (NTU), via e-mail.

Ontario Baden-Württemberg Faculty Mobility Program 2026

What?
Funding for research stays of one to four months at a partner university in Ontario, Canada. The program aims to strengthen academic exchange between Baden-Württemberg and Ontario in science, research, and the arts, fostering long-term cooperation and building networks. Stays focus on initiating or deepening research collaborations with a host in Ontario. Other full-time employment during the funded stay is not permitted.

Where?
Partner universities in Ontario, Canada.

When?
Research stays should start, and ideally be completed, in the calendar year following the application deadline (2026).

Who can apply?
Researchers with a clearly recognizable, independent academic profile:

  • (Junior) Professors, heads of junior research groups, postdocs, or PhD holders with ongoing academic activity in their field
  • Affiliation with a university in Baden-Württemberg for the entire duration of the planned stay
  • All academic disciplines are eligible

What does the funding include?

  • Monthly living allowance of €1,200 (per full four weeks in Ontario)
  • One-time travel allowance of €1,200
  • Funds may also be used for necessary consumables, research equipment, and publications (no separate proof of use required)

Additional requirements:

  • At least one public lecture at the host university (failure to deliver may result in reduction or repayment of funds)
  • Submission of a one-page reflection report at the end of the stay, covering impressions, experiences, and insights beyond your own discipline
  • Engagement as an ambassador for your home university and the Baden-Württemberg–Ontario partnership during your stay

Deadline: October 31, 2025

Required documents for application:

  • Project description (max. three pages, in German for German-language applications; must include objectives, background, research design, relevance, and publication plans)
  • Invitation letter including a description of the joint research project and institutional integration at the host university
  • Curriculum vitae
  • If applying in English, a German-language summary is also required

Send applications (all documents in one PDF) to: exchange.programs@uni-konstanz.de

If you have further questions, you can contact Tina Bebensee, OBW Coordination, University of Konstanz.

"Researcher Mobility Program" of the State-to-State Program BW - UMass: Call 2026

What?
Funding for research visits to University of Massachusetts (UMass) campuses to establish new research contacts and strengthen existing partnerships within the State-to-State Program between Baden-Württemberg and UMass.

Where?
UMass campuses: Amherst, Boston, Dartmouth, Lowell, Chan Medical School Worcester.

When?
Funding available for visits in 2026.

Who can apply?
Researchers at the nine research universities in Baden-Württemberg who want to work more closely with partners at UMass and actively contribute to the State-to-State Program.
Applicants are expected to integrate a lecture or workshop for students and/or PhD candidates at UMass into their stay.

What does the funding include?

  • Short-term stays (3–14 days): €1,200 travel allowance + €600 living expenses

  • Longer stays (up to 6 months, if funds available): €1,200 travel allowance + €1,200/month living expenses

Deadline: October 24, 2025

Required documents for application:

  • Application form
  • CV with publication list (in English)
  • Project description (max. 3 pages, in English) incl. justification of host choice and importance for collaboration
  • Invitation from host
Send application (all documents in one PDF) to Olubukola Aloba, Office of International Affairs, University of Hohenheim.

If you have further questions, you can contact Olubukola Aloba.

Université Franco-Allemande (UFA) – Deutsch-Französische Hochschule (DFH) 

Different funding opportunities for double degrees*, PhD-Track programs*, preparatory meetings, doctoral colleges*, joint PhDs*, scientific events, Franco-German chairs.

Some of the funding mechanisms are open all the year.

Learn more about the calls in German or French.
For further questions, please write an e-mail to Manuella Werp.

Azrieli International Fellowships 

Postdoctoral Fellowship: Azrieli International 2026–27

The fellowship supports exceptional postdocs across all disciplines at Israeli academic institutions. Fellows receive a monthly stipend of 14,000 ILS for a duration of up to three years.

Who can apply?

  • PhD awarded on or after Nov 1, 2022 (except in Israel).
  • PhD candidates eligible if defense is completed by June 1, 2026.
  • No academic degrees (BA, MA, PhD) from Israeli institutions allowed. Exception: former visiting or exchange students.
  • Not eligible if a postdoc or academic position in Israel began before Sep 1, 2025.

Deadline: November 19, 2025.

Please note that candidates for the fellowship must secure an academic sponsor in Israel before applying.

DAAD - ERA Fellowships: Green Hydrogen 

The DAAD scholarship program “ERA Fellowships – Green Hydrogen” provides support for German and international PhD students and postdocs working on topics related to Green Hydrogen. It funds studies, research, and internships both in Germany and internationally.

The following funding program's are available:
  • PhD students: Funding for research or training projects on Green Hydrogen at universities, research institutes, or companies (including self-organized internships). Further Information can be found on this Website.
  • PostDocs: Research fellowships provide funding for a research stay abroad or a part of a research project. Further Information can be found on this Website.
Who can apply?:
  • PhD students currently enrolled in a German university, university of applied sciences, or non-university research institutions) 
  • PostDocs (currently conducting research in Germany) interested in Green Hydrogen topics can apply. 
Participants will engage in one of four working groups: Production, Transport and Infrastructure, Market Stimulation (development of the hydrogen market), or Cross-Cutting Issues (regulation, socio-economic, and legal frameworks).

Duration of the funding:
  • for PhD students: 1 to 18 months for research fellowships and 2 to 3 months for internships.
  • for PostDocs: 1 to 18 months.
If you are interested you can apply directly through the DAAD scholarship database. 

Henriette Herz Scouting Program by Alexander von Humboldt Foundation

Have you long since made a name for yourself in your discipline? Or are you at the beginning of a promising executive research career? Are you also well-connected internationally and have already mentored junior researchers?

Then the Henriette Herz Scouting Program could be the right one for you. They specifically want to recruit researchers as scouts who already have their own international network and would like to expand their team to include an excellent Humboldt Research Fellow. 

Two program lines invite applications from both up-and-coming academics, who are (junior) professors or group leaders, as well as established researchers.
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an e-mail.
International Scholars & Welcome Office (IScO) at Karlsruher Institute of Technologie (KIT)
Adenauerring 8
Campus South, Building 50.20
76131 Karlsruhe
Deutschland
+49 721 608-45323
Email: visitingresearcher@intl.kit.edu