IScO Newsletter December 2025

• IScO´s Christmas Party
• IScO´s Excursion: Medivial Christmas Market in Durlach
• IScO´s Excursion: Technoseum Mannheim

• Call for Applications: FA(ST)2Africa Mobility Scholarships – internal KIT funding program within the strategy fund project
• KHYS Research Travel Grant
• E-Learning Courses: FIT-Career Modules
• KHYS- Aspirant Grant

• Events in Karlsruhe
• Career Planning in German Academia
• Navigating Horizon Europe Funding Opportunities & Support Offers
• International Café: Christmas Edition 2025
• International Come Together: Christmas Bakery 2025
• Info Talks: DFG Funding Opportunities for Research Careers
• DAAD - Congress Travel Program
• Helmholtz Associate Postdoc Network 
• DFG Information for the science community

• French Embassy - Procope-Mobility Grant Program 
• Baden Württemberg / Oregon State Program: Faculty Mobility Grant 2026
• “Researcher Mobility Program” of the State-to-State Program Baden Württemberg and University of Massachusetts
• GSO Leadership Academy 2026 – Individual Development and Strong Networks
• Campus France - Make Our Planet Great Again (MOPGA) 
• HIDA Mobility Program: Call for Applications
• BPI France – BMWE: 12th German-French Call for Proposals for Joint Research and Development Projects with Medium-Sized Enterprises
• ANR-DFG 2026 - French-German Collaboration for Joint Projects in Natural, Life and Engineering Sciences (PRCI)
• German Week 2026 at the German Jordanian University (GJU): Save the Date
• Université Franco-Allemande (UFA) – Deutsch-Französische Hochschule (DFH)
• Azrieli International Fellowships
• DAAD - ERA Fellowships: Green Hydrogen 
• AvH - Henriette Herz Scouting Program 

IScO´s Christmas Party

Let’s celebrate the festive season together with warmth, creativity, and intercultural spirit! Join us for an evening full of good food, cozy drinks, and inspiring activities that bring people together across cultures and traditions. 

We’ll serve homemade red mulled wine and non-alcoholic fruit punch, along with classic German Christmas treats such as Lebkuchen, Zimtsterne, Spekulatius, and Stollen. You’re warmly invited to contribute to our Winter Sweets & Treats Buffet by bringing a small snack or dessert from your home country – it doesn’t have to be Christmas-related, just something you love to share.

• Date: Thursday, December 4, 2025
• Meeting time: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
• Venue:  KIT International Guesthouse, (Reinhold Frank Str. 48c), 4th floor 
• Registration: Registration required until Monday, December 1, 2025. Please also register any friends, colleagues or children that you plan to bring along. 

Activities:

•  ✨ Secret Kindness Action – Pick a name, make a handmade Christmas card, and brighten someone’s day with a kind message. Everyone will exchange their cards at the end.  
• 🎄 International Christmas Tree – Bring a small decoration or symbolic item from your home country. Add a card with your name, country, and its meaning. Together we’ll create a beautiful Intercultural Winter Tree!
• 🎁 German Christmas Traditions Quiz – Team up for a fun and friendly quiz about festive traditions and win a small surprise!
• 🕯️ Closing Ritual – We’ll light one of the Advent wreath candles and share the story behind the four lights of Advent.

Come for the creativity, stay for the company – and let’s make this winter evening one to remember!

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

IScO Excursion: Medieval Christmas Market in Durlach

Step back in time and experience the festive magic of the Medieval Christmas Market in Durlach, set against the historic backdrop of the Karlsburg Castle. Fire pits, candlelight, jesters, and musicians create a unique atmosphere that brings the Middle Ages to life.

Explore traditional crafts, watch knights in armor, and enjoy delicious seasonal treats like mulled wine, roasted sausages, and handmade bread. The program includes medieval music, magic shows, sword fights, and a visit from St. Nicholas himself!

• Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025
• Meeting time: 2:00 PM (the "offical" part ends at 6:00 PM but you are welcome to stay longer)
• Meeting point: Karlsruhe main train station. We will take a tram to Durlach. 
• Cost: Free entrance; food and drinks at own expense
• Who can join: International researchers and guests of KIT
• Registration: Please register in advance.

Our visit coincides with a special Saturday program featuring:

• 2:00–5:30 PM: Magic and illusion show with Alexander Mabros
• from 3:00 PM: Medieval music with Patapan
• 3:30 PM: Sword fight performance by the Badische Schwertspieler
• 5:15 PM: Puppet show: Kasperl, Seppl and St. Nicholas
• 6:00 PM: Visit from St. Nicholas with small gifts for children
• 8:00 PM: Spectacular fire show with Mikien and Friends

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

IScO´s Excursion: Technoseum Mannheim

Join IScO for a guided tour in the Technoseum in Mannheim. The Technoseum is a museum of technology and social history that presents the development of science, industry, and everyday life from the eighteenth century to the present. It offers interactive exhibitions that show how technological innovations have shaped society and daily life over time.

Our 75 minutes long guided tour focuses on the history of inventions. Human creativity has produced new inventions throughout all periods of history, some of which were initially ignored or ridiculed, while others fundamentally changed human life. Until the eighteenth century, inventions were often created by craftsmen and independent inventors, but during the Enlightenment science and research increasingly took on this role, and innovation became more systematic and needs oriented. This tour highlights key inventions that introduced and accompanied the Industrial Revolution, including the steam engine, the mechanical loom, and the spinning machine, and further examples such as the Jacquard loom, the Drais running machine, and Benz’s Patent Motor Car illustrate the origins, success, and impact of an invention.

• Date: Saturday, January 17, 2025
• Meeting time:8:15 AM. We will take the ECE train at 8:37 AM to Mannheim main station. Then we will take a tram to the Technoseum.
• Venue:  Technoseum Mannheim
• Registration: Registration required until Monday, December 1, 2025. Please also register any friends, colleagues or children that you plan to bring along.
• Cost: 10 € per person. A train ticket is not included in this price. The train ticket currently costs 6.99 €. Since the train is an ECE, it is not compatible with the Deutschlandticket.

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

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: 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

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!

Events in Karlsruhe

• The English Stammtisch organized by the English-Speaking Meet-Up Group will meet at Vogelbrau in Karlsruhe starting around 6:30 and going until around 10:30 PM on December 9, 2025. A great way to meet new people, chat with old friends and enjoy a night out.
• The American Library has regular events in English for kids and adults.
  For adults:  LitNight (Dec 2 & 16), New(s) Views (Dec 9), MovieTalk (Dec 10), Poetry?Please! (—).
  For kids and teens:  Storytime in English for Kids 3 to 5 (Dec 10), Reading Time (Age 6 & Up) (Dec 5 & 19), TeenTime (Dec 5 & 19). The library is closed from December 21, 2025 through January 6, 2026.

• Sprecht miteinander! Speak with each other!
  Practice your spoken German in a relaxed atmosphere. People of similar language ability form groups moderated by a volunteer. Free and no registration required. Wednesdays and Fridays from 6:30 to 8:00 PM. Bürgerzentrum Mühlburg (BZM)  Weinbrennerstr. 79a, 76185 Karlsruhe. Just stop by!
• The IBZ offers practice in speaking German via Microsoft Teams on Mondays and in person on Thursdays from 6:30 to 8:00 PM.
• Other opportunities to practice speaking in German can be found on the Integration page of the City of Karlsruhe. Just switch the language (Sprache) at the top of the page to find out more.

• November 4 until December 7 — Dance Festival (Tanz Festival karlsruhe 2025) (Website only in German) at various venues throughout Karlsruhe. New choreographies, experimental performances, international contemporary dance etc. Well worth it!
• November 24 until December 23 — The Christmas markets in Karlsruhe are mainly at Friedrichsplatz and Marktplatz. For children, a special train is set up at Kirchplatz St. Stephan along with dioramas. Don't miss the flying Santa on his sleigh as he soars over the Marktplatz — daily at 5 and 7:30 pm. A huge Ferris Wheel at Marktplatz has closed gondolas. A temporary ice skating rink can be found in front of the castle and is open until January 25th.
• November 29 until April 12, 2026 — Archistories – Architecture in Art. The first exhibition at the Orangerie after extensive renovations. Guided tours in English on December 12, January 16, February 27 and March 13 at 4:30 pm.
• December 4 — Farmer’s Market (Bauernmarkt) (Website only in German) from 3:00 to 8:00 PM at Schlachthof near Tollhaus. Every first Thursday of the month.
• December 5 until December 14 — Jahresaustellung (Website only in German)at the Staatliche Akademie der Bildenden Künste Karlsruhe (Art Academy). See what the students have been up to in this annual show. Free.

International Café: Christmas Edition 2025

What
Ho ho ho – the festive season is just around the corner and we are opening the doors for the final International Café of the year. We invite you to spend a cosy pre Christmas evening with us, filled with decoration crafting, joyful exchange and warm seasonal atmosphere. Together we will create Christmas ornaments, enjoy a special holiday drink and play games that help you connect with new people in a relaxed and friendly environment. You are welcome to bring a Christmas treat from your home country to share with others. Participation is free of charge.

When
December, 3, 2025 from 5:15 PM to 7:30 PM (Doors open 5:15 PM, programme starts 5:30 PM)

Where
Vielmetter Saal, Studentenhaus Karlsruhe, Adenauerring 7, 76131 Karlsruhe

For whom
All students interested in intercultural exchange, community and shared Christmas spirit

Registration
Registration required online

If you have further questions, you may contact the Buddy Programme Team via email.

International Come Together: Christmas Bakery 2025

What
Together with the Economic Development Department of the City of Karlsruhe and the TK health insurance company, we cordially invite you to mulled wine, punch and biscuit baking under the guidance of a professional baker. Internationals are warmly invited to experience the magic of German Christmas traditions in a festive and welcoming setting. The evening includes a hands on cookie baking session where you can prepare your own Weihnachtsplätzchen, discover seasonal customs and learn about the cultural significance of Christmas in Germany. With tea, mulled wine and plenty of time to talk, the event offers a relaxed space to meet new people, exchange experiences and enjoy the pre Christmas season together. Participation is free, and of course you are welcome to take your homemade cookies home with you.

When
December, 11, 2025 from 5 PM to 9 PM

Where
Anne Frank Haus, Moltkestr. 20, 76133 Karlsruhe

For whom
International employees, researchers, guests and newcomers in Karlsruhe and the region

Registration
Registration required online

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

Career Planning in German Academia

What
Building an academic career in Germany can be challenging. Structures, funding pathways and disciplinary expectations are often difficult to navigate, especially for international researchers. This interactive 60 minute session introduces seven essential steps for strategic career development in the German system. Participants will gain practical insights, tools and confidence to identify opportunities, strengthen decision making and navigate uncertainty more effectively.

Speaker
Mirjam Müller, Head of Postdoc Affairs and Academic Career Coach, University of Konstanz

When
December, 17, 2025 from 1:00 to 2:00 PM

Where
Online event. Access information will be provided upon registration.

For whom
Postdocs and international researchers interested in understanding career progression and long term planning within German academia.

Registration
Registration required online.

If you have further questions, please contact German Postdoc Network via e-mail.

Navigating Horizon Europe Funding Opportunities & Support Offers

What
Many postdocs are familiar with ERC grants and MSCA fellowships, but Horizon Europe offers a much broader range of funding possibilities. This lunch talk with Cornelia Schneider introduces the wider Horizon Europe funding landscape with a focus on Pillar II and its thematic clusters. Participants will learn about current calls, funding instruments and how to build strong consortia and networks. The session will also highlight the tailored support available through the EU Bureau of the BMFTR and the German National Contact Points.

When
December, 8, 2025 from 1:00 to 2:00 PM

Where
Online event. Access details will be provided after registration.

For whom
Postdoctoral researchers and advanced early career researchers who are interested in Horizon Europe funding opportunities and strategic networking at the European level.

Registration
Registration required online.

If you have further questions, please contact German Postdoc Network via e-mail.

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)

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 

• 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.

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.

French Embassy - Procope-Mobility Grant Program

What?
Mobility grants fund research stays of one, two, or three months at a university or research institute in France. Program beneficiaries will receive a fixed monthly allowance of €1,850 for doctoral candidates and €2,100 for other young researchers.

When?
The research stays must begin between May, 18, 2026 and December 31, 2026

Who can apply ?
Doctoral students, postdoctoral researchers, or early-career researchers (within five years of their doctoral defense)

Deadline: January, 12, 2026

Online information webinar: December, 8, 2025 at 2:00 PM via Zoom

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

Baden Württemberg / Oregon State Program: Faculty Mobility Grant 2026

What
The Faculty Mobility Grant supports research visits aimed at initiating and deepening academic collaboration between universities in Baden Württemberg and Oregon. The program seeks to strengthen institutional partnerships, expand joint research activities, and advance long term academic exchange.

Desired outcomes or objectives may include one or more of the following:

• research collaborations, publications, presentations and the acquisition of additional funding to support continued activities
• connections between students and graduates, joint research and cooperation opportunities and increased student mobility
• curriculum development or integration, networked classrooms or experiences with Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL), joint study programs or other curriculum innovations
• other forms of partnership activities not listed above

Awardees are additionally expected to contribute to student mobility visibility through:

• a presentation on the home university to promote student exchange
• a lecture or active participation in an event open to undergraduate and or graduate students
• a meeting with the Oregon Study Center or IE3 Global to discuss ideas for increasing student participation in the exchange program

After completion of the stay, a report outlining outcomes, ongoing activities and future objectives resulting from the visit and associated academic collaborations must be submitted. The report is due within three months after the end of the stay and should be sent to Sarah Taylor via e-mail..

Who can apply
Eligible applicants are faculty members from the participating institutions in Baden Württemberg and Oregon. PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers are not eligible to apply.

• Participating institutions in Oregon: Portland State University, Western Oregon University, Willamette University, Oregon State University, University of Oregon, Eastern Oregon University, Oregon Institute of Technology, Pacific University, Southern Oregon University
• Participating institutions in Baden Württemberg: University of Freiburg, University of Heidelberg, University of Hohenheim, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, University of Konstanz, University of Mannheim, University of Stuttgart, University of Tübingen, University of Ulm, University of Education Freiburg, University of Education Ludwigsburg, Stuttgart Media University, Academy of Fine Arts Stuttgart, Stuttgart University of Music and Performing Arts, Trossingen University of Music

Funding
The grant covers round trip travel costs between Baden Württemberg and Oregon up to a maximum of 1350 Euros, plus a daily allowance of 150 Euros for up to seven days. Arrival and departure each count as half days. Flights must be booked according to the travel regulations of the sending institution or state.

Submission
The applications are reviewed by a selection committee composed of representatives from both Baden Württemberg and Oregon. Applicants will be informed of the decision by 27 February 2026. Funding must be administered and disbursed within the calendar year 2026.
The travel must be completed by 31 December 2026.

A complete application includes

• the application form with project description (maximum 3 pages) including
  • planned activities and future objectives
  • justification for the choice of cooperation partner or host institution
  • proposed activities to support the student exchange program
• a letter of invitation from the host institution. The letter should outline the goals of the visit and provide a brief summary of the planned activities. It is a key part of the application and should therefore be as detailed and informative as possible.
• curriculum vitae

All documents must be combined into a single PDF file and submitted to Julianna Betjemann via e-mail. Submissions may be made in German or English.

Deadline: January, 30, 2026

“Researcher Mobility Program” of the State-to-State Program Baden Württemberg and University of Massachusetts

What
The program aims to strengthen collaboration between researchers from Baden Württemberg and the University of Massachusetts. For 2026, grants are provided to support research visits to UMass campuses. The program encourages the establishment of new research contacts and the deepening of existing collaborations. To enhance visibility of the program, visiting researchers are expected to offer an academic contribution such as a lecture or workshop for students and/or PhD candidates at UMass. Participating UMass campuses are Amherst, Boston, Dartmouth, Lowell and Chan Medical School Worcester.

Who can apply
Researchers affiliated with one of the nine research universities in Baden Württemberg who intend to work closely with partners at UMass and who wish to become actively involved in the state-to-state Program.

Funding
Short term stays of 3 to 14 days at one of the participating UMass campuses are funded with a travel allowance of 1200 Euros and a scholarship of 600 Euros to cover living expenses. Longer visits may be funded if resources permit. In this case, the funding consists of a travel allowance of 1200 Euros and a scholarship of 1200 Euros per month for a maximum duration of six months.

Application deadline for visits in 2026: January 31, 2026

Submission
Applications must include

• application form
• CV with list of publications in English
• project description including selection justification of the host institution and relevance for future cooperation, maximum three pages in English
• invitation from the host institution

If you have further questions, please contact Ms.Olubukola Aloba via e-mail.

GSO Leadership Academy 2026 – Individual Development and Strong Networks

What?
The GSO Leadership Academy (LSA) supports early- and mid-career researchers in finding answers to key questions of academic and professional leadership.In an interdisciplinary and international setting, the program equips participants with the tools and insights to take responsibility in research, business, non-profit organizations, or as founders.

Who can apply?
German-speaking early- and mid-career researchers from all disciplines at universities and research institutions abroad, as well as researchers who have returned to Germany within the last 18 months.
Applicants must hold at least a postdoctoral qualification (or equivalent) and aim to continue their career in Germany.

Funding
Each year, 25 full fellowships are awarded to outstanding academics who demonstrate leadership potential.
The fellowship covers:

• Course fees, travel, and accommodation costs (according to GSO guidelines)
• Meals during training sessions and participation in the accompanying program
• Career coaching, mentoring, and networking through the AlumNode alumni platform
• Selected fellows contribute a one-time commitment fee of €150.

Additional program details
The program consists of two in-person training phases in Berlin and Heidelberg (Germany) and includes a comprehensive package of career coaching, mentoring, and network activities.
It provides systematic career planning, personal development, and preparation for leadership roles in research and beyond.

Deadline
March 1, 2026, 23:59 (CET)

Submission
Applications must be submitted online via GSO Leadership Academy – Program Information.

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

Campus France - Make Our Planet Great Again (MOPGA) 

What?
The “Make Our Planet Great Again” (MOPGA) program will award at least 60 fellowships to early-career researchers who wish to conduct their research in France. The initiative aims to strengthen international collaboration on global environmental challenges and promote scientific excellence.

Where?
Host research institutions in France.

When?
Fellowships are offered for research stays starting in 2026.

Who can apply?
Early-career researchers (within 8 years after obtaining their PhD) of any nationality who have not previously worked in France are eligible to apply. Applicants must propose a research project in one of the eligible fields.

Funding
Each fellowship provides:

• A monthly allowance of €2,500
• A relocation allowance of €500
• Health, liability, and repatriation insurance coverage until registration in the French social security system

Eligible research fields

1. Earth system sciences
2. Climate change and sustainability sciences
3. Energy transition
4. Environmental and societal challenges
5. Human, animal, and environmental health

Additional requirements / selection criteria
Applicants should demonstrate academic excellence and a strong commitment to addressing global environmental challenges. Research projects should align with one or more of the eligible thematic areas and include collaboration with a French host institution.

Deadline: December 12, 2025

Submission
Applications must be submitted online via Campus France.

If you have further questions, please contact Campus France and/or 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.

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.

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

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.

DAAD - ERA Fellowships: Green Hydrogen 

• 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.

• 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. 

• for PhD students: 1 to 18 months for research fellowships and 2 to 3 months for internships.
• for PostDocs: 1 to 18 months.

Henriette Herz Scouting Program by Alexander von Humboldt Foundation

Have you already made a name for yourself in your field? 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.