The RIFS Fellows Program 2027, a fully financed worldwide fellowship with its headquarters in Germany, is currently accepting applications. Applicants from all around the world are welcome to apply for this esteemed program, which offers a fellowship that lasts six to twelve months and gives a remarkable chance for professional development and international cooperation.
Selected fellows will travel to and live in Germany’s Potsdam region, where they will carry out independent research and help create cutting-edge solutions meant to advance sustainable transformations. The Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS), a renowned organization dedicated to tackling global environmental and societal issues, is hosting the program.
A very international and multidisciplinary research community is created each year by the selection of about 20 fellows from various nations and professional backgrounds. In order to produce significant ideas for a more sustainable future, participants collaborate with experts, legislators, and other researchers while working on their own projects.
The RIFS Fellows Program is very inclusive and interdisciplinary since it is available to people from a variety of academic and professional backgrounds. One of the main benefits of this fellowship is that it is more accessible to applicants from around the world because there is no application cost and no necessity for English language tests like the IELTS.
Host Country: Potsdam, Germany
University: The Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS)
Opportunity Type: Fellowship
Eligibility Country: International Students
Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
Eligibility Criteria:
- People from any countries are welcome to apply for the fellowship, regardless of their nationality.
- Scientists and researchers with a PhD or comparable professional research experience are qualified.
- Applications are encouraged from non-academic professionals with at least three to five years of relevant work experience.
- We invite people from a variety of backgrounds, including the media, the arts, public policy, the commercial sector, and civil society.
- The program is looking for visionary people who are passionate about promoting positive global change and sustainable development.
Benefits:
- For certain participants, travel costs to and from Germany will be reimbursed.
- In accordance with program guidelines, family travel support is also offered, assisting with accompanying family members’ travel expenses.
- Throughout the fellowship time, everyday expenses will be covered by a monthly living-expense allowance.
- In order to facilitate their smooth transition to Germany, fellows will get relocation support.
- Housing arrangements and visa-related procedures will be supported.
- For the period of the fellowship, complete health insurance coverage will be provided.
Required Documents
- Motivation Letter: A well-written statement explaining your interest in the fellowship, your goals, and how the program aligns with your research or professional aspirations.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): An updated CV highlighting your academic background, professional experience, skills, and relevant accomplishments.
- List of Achievements: A summary of your key academic, professional, or project-related achievements that demonstrate your expertise and impact.
- Project Proposal: A detailed description of your proposed research or project, including objectives, methodology, expected outcomes, and relevance to sustainability transformation.
- Optional Annex: Additional supporting documents or materials that may strengthen your application, such as publications, portfolios, or certificates.
Deadline: 21st June 2026
