The RIFS Fellows Program 2026 offers an exceptional opportunity for individuals from around the globe to participate in a fully funded research fellowship in Germany. Organized by the Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS), this fellowship invites professionals from science, public administration, civil society, the private sector, media, and the arts to collaborate on innovative projects that drive sustainability transformation.
Based at the GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences in Potsdam, the program provides a platform to engage with leading researchers and international peers, contributing to real-world solutions and policy discussions on sustainability. RIFS supports fellows through financial aid, accommodation, travel reimbursement, and integration into the research community.
With a mission to foster diversity and global cooperation, the fellowship encourages applicants of all nationalities, backgrounds, and career stages to apply. This is a unique opportunity to strengthen your expertise, expand your global network, and advance sustainability goals in Germany and beyond. You can also apply for the Miami University Presidential Fellowship Program in the USA 2025 (Fully Funded)
RIFS Fellows Program 2026 Details:
- Host Country: Germany
- Fellowship Location: GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences, Potsdam
- Host Institute: Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS)
- Program Duration: 6–12 months (with possibility of extension up to 24 months)
- Eligibility: Applicants from diverse sectors
Benefits of the RIFS Fellows Program 2026:
- Monthly stipend based on experience and family status
- Reimbursement of travel expenses for fellows and family members
- Relocation support, including moving costs
- Accommodation assistance for non-EU participants in Berlin/Potsdam
- Visa and insurance support, plus school placement assistance
- Opportunity to build global networks and collaborate on impactful sustainability research
- Work with RIFS research groups on interdisciplinary projects
- Fellowship extension possibility of up to 24 months in exceptional cases
Check ETH Zurich Postdoctoral Fellowships 2025 in Switzerland (Fully Funded)
Available Fields and Themes:
Applicants must propose a research project aligned with at least one of the institute’s core themes. The RIFS Research Themes include:
- Democratic Transformations
- Systemic Interdependencies
- Sustainable Science and Policy Interfaces
Applicants are encouraged to reach out to RIFS research groups in advance to tailor proposals for stronger alignment and higher chances of selection.
Eligibility Criteria for RIFS Fellowship 2026:
- Open to applicants from all countries and professional sectors
- Academic applicants must have a PhD or equivalent research experience
- Non-academic professionals must possess 3–5 years of relevant experience
- A project proposal must be relevant to at least one RIFS research theme
- Applicants must express interest in working with specific research groups
Required Documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) with achievements
- Passport copy
- Motivation letter
- Detailed project proposal
- Supporting documents (e.g., publications, portfolio, or related work)
Deadline:
The application deadline for the RIFS Fellows Program 2026 is 9th June 2025.
Check Matsumae International Foundation Fellowship 2026 in Japan (Fully Funded)
How to Apply for the RIFS Fellows Program 2026?
Follow these simple steps to apply for the RIFS Fellowship in Germany:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to the RIFS official fellowship page
- Fill in Personal Details: Complete the online application form
- Upload Required Documents: Upload your CV, motivation letter, proposal, and other files
- Choose Research Groups: Indicate your preferred RIFS research themes/groups
- Agree to Terms: Read and accept the data protection agreement
- Submit Application: Click on “Send Application” to complete your submission
