The Zukunftskolleg Postdoctoral Fellowships 2026 offer postdoctoral researchers independence for their research, interdisciplinary exchange, and international contacts, with benefits including research allowances and various support measures. Applicants need a doctoral degree obtained between September 30, 2024, and October 1, 2026, and must propose a research project aligned with a discipline at the University of Konstanz.
The Zukunftskolleg Postdoctoral Fellowships 2026 are now open for applications. This program provides postdoctoral researchers with an environment that fosters research independence, promotes interdisciplinary and intergenerational exchange, and facilitates integration within the university and international networks. Each selected fellow will be affiliated with both a university department and the Zukunftskolleg. Additionally, fellows have the option to associate with the University of Konstanz's Clusters of Excellence, such as "Politics of Inequality" or the "Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective Behaviour." The fellowship targets excellent early career postdoctoral researchers who demonstrate strong scientific capabilities, the capacity for independent research, and a collaborative mindset. Successful candidates are expected to exhibit high potential for a successful academic career. Key responsibilities include developing and implementing their own research projects and building a distinct research profile. Fellows are required to actively participate in the regular weekly meetings of the Zukunftskolleg and contribute to its goal of fostering an interdisciplinary team of postdoctoral researchers. A condition of the fellowship is that fellows must reside in Konstanz or its surrounding areas for the duration of their term. This ensures active engagement with the academic community and the vibrant research environment. Participants in the Zukunftskolleg Postdoctoral Fellowships benefit from comprehensive support measures. These include an annual research allowance for funding research assistants or equipment, eligibility for co-funding, and opportunities to invite distinguished colleagues through Senior Fellowships and the Mentorship Programme. Fellows can also undertake temporary research visits abroad, nominate international early career researchers for visits, apply for funding for cooperative initiatives or career stage support, and receive non-monetary assistance such as coaching, career counseling, and grant proposal writing. Financial support for organizing scientific retreats is also provided.
Develop and implement your own research project and build up your own research profile.
Applicants must hold a doctoral degree granted between September 30, 2024, and October 1, 2026. Exceptions for earlier graduation dates may be made for maternity/paternity leave or non-academic working contracts. Candidates must not hold a permanent professorship, habilitation, or equivalent (Venia legendi). Candidates with their own externally funded position that can be transferred to Konstanz are also eligible. Applicants must propose a research project that aligns with a discipline represented at the University of Konstanz. Reflection on how their research relates to the 17 UN SDGs is invited in the motivation letter. Applicants should contact potential local hosts among researchers at the University of Konstanz to ensure appropriate affiliation, as departmental support strengthens the application. International experience in teaching or research and a strong interest in interdisciplinary topics are considered assets. Proficiency in English is required, as it is the working language.