The call for applications for the International Climate Protection Fellowship from the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation is currently open. 

This fellowship enables emerging leaders to implement a research-based proposal in climate protection or climate-related resource conservation over a one-year period in Germany.

The Humboldt Foundation values diversity and encourages applications from female candidates and members of underrepresented groups.

For details, visit the International Climate Protection Fellowship website or refer to the Guidelines and Information for International Climate Protection Fellows

Degree Level

Non degree

Deadlines

1 February 2025.

The following mandatory timetable is designed to facilitate networking amongst the fellows:

  • January, February 2026: Intensive German language course in Bonn (optional)
  • March 2026: Introductory seminar across various locations in Germany
  • April 2026 – February 2027: Research-based project work
  • June 2026: Humboldt Foundation Annual Meeting, including reception with the German President in Berlin (optional)
  • Autumn 2026: Two-week study tour through Germany
  • January/February 2027: Closing seminar and reception in Berlin

Fields of Study

Projects should address:

  • Combating climate change
  • Adaptation strategies
  • Ecosystem and biodiversity preservation
  • Sustainable use of seas and oceans
  • Sustainability in natural resource use, resource-efficient consumption, or urban development

Who Can Apply?

Applicants must:

  • Be prospective leaders with a proposed one-year project in Germany.
  • Hold a first university degree (Bachelor’s or equivalent) completed within the last twelve years as of the application deadline.
  • Have leadership experience supported by references.
  • Possess a Master’s degree and at least twelve months of relevant experience or 24 months of professional experience post-Bachelor’s in climate-related fields.
  • Provide a project proposal in climate protection agreed upon with a German host.
  • Submit two letters of recommendation and a detailed host statement from Germany.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in English or German.
  • Have resided and worked in an eligible country for at least twelve months in the past 18 months.

Fellowship Offer

  • Monthly stipend: €2,200 - €2,700, based on career stage.
  • Mobility and health insurance allowances.
  • Travel and study grants.
  • German language courses, family, and childcare support, where applicable.
  • Research stays outside Germany for up to three months (conditions apply).
  • Post-fellowship alumni support and German host institution research subsidies.

Application Process

Applications can only be submitted online. 

Contact

The DAAD Information Centre Johannesburg can be contacted via email for support, advice and information: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

For further information, please contact the master's courses’ contact persons listed below

Documents and links

International Climate Protection Fellowship - website

Programme information

Programme information for postdocs

Frequently asked questions from hosts about the subsidy towards research costs

Guidelines on handling security-relevant research in international research collaborations

Guidelines and Information for International Climate Protection Fellows

Online application process and all necessary documents

Frequently Asked Questions

Note

Please note that this opportunity is not offered by the Department of Higher Education and Training. Applicants are required to undertake their own research into programmes and institutions and are responsible for ensuring that the qualifications will be recognised in South Africa by contacting the South African Qualifications Authority and the relevant professional bodies. If there are any discrepancies in the details provided, the information given by the sponsor supersedes the details provided above. No additional financial support will be provided by the Department of Higher Education and Training.

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