Baden-Württemberg Early Career Rescue Fellowship (2026–2028) – Apply Now

Application Deadline: January 9, 2026

Academic freedom is under increasing pressure in many parts of the world. To protect researchers at risk, the Freiburg Institute for Advanced Studies (FRIAS), in partnership with the Tübingen College of Fellows (CoF) and the Zukunftskolleg Konstanz (ZuKo), is launching the Baden-Württemberg Early Career Rescue Fellowships for the period 2026–2028. This unique programme offers refuge and a platform for postdoctoral scholars whose academic work is threatened by political persecution or restrictions on freedom of inquiry, particularly those who have been forced to leave or cannot safely continue their research in the United States.

Fellowship Overview

This two-year programme is part of the state of Baden-Württemberg’s commitment to safeguarding academic freedom globally. By hosting researchers at three of its leading universities, the programme provides not only a secure academic environment but also full integration into Germany’s research landscape, enabling fellows to advance their scholarship, rebuild their careers, and contribute to international scientific discourse.

Fellowship Details

• Number of Fellowships: 14 Postdoctoral Fellowships
• Duration: 2 years, with fellowships commencing between July 2026 and November 2028
• Financial Support: A monthly salary according to the German public sector pay scale E14 (approximately €6,000 gross, pre-tax)
• Host Institutions: Fellows are hosted by one of the following universities:
• University of Freiburg (FRIAS)
• University of Tübingen (College of Fellows)
• University of Konstanz (Zukunftskolleg)
• Status: Fellows are employed as postdoctoral researchers by the respective host university.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for this rescue fellowship, applicants must satisfy all of the following conditions:

• Academic Profile: Hold a doctoral degree (PhD or equivalent) in any academic field represented at the Universities of Freiburg, Tübingen, or Konstanz.
• Career Stage: Have between 1 and 7 years of postdoctoral research experience at the time of application.
• Risk Status: Provide credible documentation or a compelling case demonstrating that they cannot continue their research in the USA due to political pressure, persecution, or threats to their academic freedom. This includes researchers who have recently fled or are at imminent risk.
• Nationality: Open to researchers of any nationality.
• Mobility: Be prepared to relocate to Germany for the duration of the fellowship.

What the Fellowship Offers

The fellowship provides a holistic package of financial, academic, and professional support:

• Secure Employment: A two-year, fully funded research position with a competitive salary and social security benefits under German law.
• Academic Resources: Full access to the host university’s libraries, laboratories, research facilities, and IT infrastructure.
• Intellectual Community: Membership in the respective Institute for Advanced Studies (FRIAS, CoF, or ZuKo), including participation in colloquia, lectures, and interdisciplinary workshops.
• Research Freedom: Dedicated time and support to pursue an independent research project without teaching obligations.
• Career Development: Mentoring, networking opportunities with German and international scholars, and guidance for long-term career planning within or beyond academia.
• Administrative & Social Integration: Assistance with relocation, visa processes, housing search, and integration into local academic and social life.

Application Process

Prospective applicants are required to follow a structured application process:

1. Consult the Manual: Carefully read the official Programme and Application Manual, which contains full details on eligibility, required documents, and selection criteria.
2. Prepare Application Dossier: This typically includes:
3. Completed application form
4. Curriculum Vitae
5. Research proposal (3–5 pages)
6. Doctoral certificate
7. Statement on risk situation and need for rescue
8. Two letters of recommendation
9. Writing sample
10. Submit Application: All materials must be uploaded via the official online ApplicationForm. Incomplete or late submissions cannot be considered.

Application Deadline: January 9, 2026, at 11:00 AM Central European Time (CET)

Click here to apply

Selection Criteria

Applications will be assessed by a joint academic committee based on:

• The academic quality and originality of the proposed research.
• The applicant’s scholarly qualifications and achievements.
• The demonstrated level of risk and need for academic refuge.
• The fit between the applicant’s research profile and the hosting institutions.

Important Notes

• The fellowship is intended as a rescue measure and applicants must substantiate their risk situation.
• The host institution will be assigned based on the best disciplinary fit and available capacity.
• Fellows are expected to reside in the vicinity of their host university for the fellowship period.

This fellowship represents a vital lifeline for scholars in peril, affirming the fundamental principle that the pursuit of knowledge must remain free and protected.

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