Overview
Host Country: Germany
Host Institution: Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS), GFZ Helmholtz Centre
Description
Host Country: Germany
Host Institution: Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS), GFZ Helmholtz Centre
Location: Potsdam (and Berlin region)
Programme Type: Fully Funded International Fellowship
Duration: 6 to 12 months (extendable up to 24 months in some cases)
Application Deadline: 21 June 2026
Fellowship Year: 2027 Intake
Eligibility
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
Candidates from all countries are eligible
Scientists should hold a PhD or equivalent experience
Non-academic professionals should have at least 3–5 years of work experience
Applicants from media, arts, public administration, private sector, and civil society can apply
Must demonstrate a strong interest in sustainability transformation
Should have innovative ideas and leadership potential
Project proposal must align with RIFS research themes
Additional Information
Rifs Fellowship 2027 Overview
Host Country: Germany
Host Institution: Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS), GFZ Helmholtz Centre
Location: Potsdam (and Berlin region)
Programme Type: Fully Funded International Fellowship
Duration: 6 to 12 months (extendable up to 24 months in some cases)
Application Deadline: 21 June 2026
Fellowship Year: 2027 Intake
Degree Level
The RIFS Fellows Program is open to:
PhD holders
Researchers
Professionals with equivalent experience
Policy experts
Media professionals
Civil society members
Artists and innovators
This fellowship is primarily intended for postdoctoral-level researchers and experienced professionals rather than undergraduate or master's students.
Available Subjects
Applicants working in sustainability-related fields are encouraged to apply. Relevant areas include:
Sustainability studies
Environmental science
Public policy
Social sciences
Climate studies
Media and communication
Human development
Innovation and technology
Arts and sustainability
Human-Earth interactions
Research Themes
Applicants are required to submit project proposals related to one of the following research themes:
Sustainability Transformations And Society
This area focuses on creating sustainable changes within societies, institutions, and communities.
Advancing Transdisciplinarity And Co Creation
This theme supports collaborative approaches that combine multiple disciplines and stakeholder perspectives.
Transforming Human Earth Interactions
Research under this theme aims to understand and improve the relationship between humans and environmental systems.
Benefits
Selected fellows will receive:
Travel expenses to and from Germany
Travel support for family members
Monthly stipend for living expenses
Relocation support
Assistance with housing arrangements
Visa support
Health insurance coverage
Access to international research networks
Opportunity to work with global experts and professionals
Eligible Nationalities
The fellowship is open to applicants from all countries worldwide.
International candidates from any nationality are eligible to submit applications.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
Candidates from all countries are eligible
Scientists should hold a PhD or equivalent experience
Non-academic professionals should have at least 3–5 years of work experience
Applicants from media, arts, public administration, private sector, and civil society can apply
Must demonstrate a strong interest in sustainability transformation
Should have innovative ideas and leadership potential
Project proposal must align with RIFS research themes
Required Documents
Applicants typically need the following documents:
Motivation letter
Updated CV
List of achievements
Project proposal
Optional supporting annex
How To Apply
Interested applicants can apply online through the official RIFS application portal.
Steps to apply:
Visit the official RIFS application website.
Create an account or log in.
Complete the online application form.
Upload required documents.
Submit a project proposal aligned with the research themes.
Review all details carefully.
Submit the application before the deadline.
Why Apply For The Rifs Fellows Program
The RIFS Fellows Program offers participants a chance to work in an international research environment while contributing to solutions for global sustainability challenges. Fellows gain valuable experience, establish professional connections, and collaborate with experts from different sectors and disciplines.
Frequently Asked Questions Faqs
Is the RIFS Fellowship a degree programme? No. It is a professional research fellowship and not linked to any academic degree.
Who can apply for the RIFS Fellowship 2027? Researchers, policymakers, journalists, artists, NGO leaders, and professionals from any sector working on sustainability-related topics can apply.
Is the fellowship open to international applicants? Yes. The programme is open to applicants from all nationalities worldwide with no geographic restrictions.
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