International Climate Protection Fellowship: Empowering the Next Generation of Global Climate Leaders

The International Climate Protection Fellowship is a prestigious programme offered by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation for prospective leaders working practically and postdoctoral researchers with proven expertise in climate protection and climate-relevant resource conservation.

The fellowship supports outstanding individuals from non-European developing and transition countries who are committed to addressing global climate challenges through research, innovation, and international cooperation. Fellows undertake a 12 to 24-month research or practice-oriented project in Germany, contributing to climate solutions that are relevant both globally and in their countries of origin.

Who Can Apply

The fellowship is open to individuals who are:

• Actively engaged in climate protection or climate-related resource conservation

• Citizens of a non-European developing or transition country

• Predominantly living and working in their country of origin

• Demonstrating leadership potential and the ability to act as multipliers in their fields

• Proficient in English and/or German

The programme welcomes applications from individuals of all ethnic, cultural, and social backgrounds, regardless of gender identity, age, religion, disability, or sexual orientation. The Humboldt Foundation is committed to gender balance, diversity, and inclusion, and explicitly encourages applications from women and underrepresented groups.

Fellowship Tracks

Prospective Leaders Working Practically

Applicants in this category undertake a one-year project in Germany. Eligible candidates must:

• Have completed their first academic degree within the last 12 years (by 10 February 2026), and

• Possess at least 24 months of relevant professional experience in climate-related fields after their first degree,
  or

• Hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) plus at least 12 months of relevant professional experience related to climate issues.

Postdoctoral Researchers

Postdoctoral fellows undertake long-term academic research (12–24 months). Eligible candidates must:

• Have completed their first academic degree within the last 12 years

• Hold a doctorate related to climate protection or climate-relevant resource conservation, awarded no more than four years before the application deadline, or be completing it by 31 August of the selection year

• Have a record of peer-reviewed academic publications

Research Focus Areas

Projects should address one or more of the following themes:

• Combating climate change and developing adaptation strategies

• Protecting ecosystems and biodiversity

• Sustainable use of seas and oceans

• Resource-efficient consumption and production

• Sustainable urban development

• Climate-relevant natural resource management

Both academic research and practice-oriented approaches are welcomed.

Fellowship Benefits and Sponsorship

The fellowship promotes the exchange of knowledge, methods, and practical solutions between fellows and host institutions in Germany, with long-term benefits for fellows’ countries of origin.

Financial Support

• Prospective leaders: €2,500 – €3,000 per month (depending on qualifications and career level)

• Postdoctoral researchers: €3,000 per month

• Additional benefits may include:

  • Travel expenses

  • Full private health insurance

  • Support for accompanying family members

  • German language courses

Additional Support

• A three-week introductory programme in Germany

• Networking with other Climate Protection Fellows

• Visits to research institutions, businesses, and cultural events

• Extensive alumni support to foster long-term collaboration

Support for Hosts

Host institutions receive:

• €800 per month (natural and engineering sciences)

• €500 per month (humanities and social sciences)

Host Institutions

Fellows may be hosted by a wide range of institutions in Germany, including:

• Universities

• Research institutes

• NGOs, think tanks, and consulting agencies

• Other relevant organizations in climate-related fields

Applicants must independently identify and agree on a project with a host institution before applying.

How to Apply

Applications are submitted online via the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation’s website. Before applying, candidates must coordinate their project proposal with their chosen host.

Required Documents

• Completed application form, including:

  • Personal information

  • Letter of motivation

  • Research project and communication strategy

• Two letters of recommendation (not older than 12 months)

• Host’s statement and mentoring agreement from the German host institution

Applications are only forwarded to the Foundation once all documents, including the host’s submission, are complete.

📧 For questions, applicants may contact: info@avh.de

Selection Procedure

Fellowship recipients are selected by an independent committee of experts from academia and industry. Applications are assessed based on:

• Academic and professional achievements

• Leadership skills in climate protection

• Quality, originality, feasibility, and relevance of the proposed project

• Practical relevance for the applicant’s country of origin

Equal opportunities and accessibility are actively considered throughout the selection process. Applicants must always abide by the rules of good scientific practice (PDF) and the principles of scientific ethics. Please take note of our information on dealing with generative AI in the selection area.

Timeline

• Application deadline: 10 February 2026

• Selection meeting: September 2026 (virtual)

• Notification of results: By end of June 2026

• German language course (optional): January–February

• Introductory meeting in Germany: March

• Project start: April

Applicants are advised to submit materials to their host at least one week before the deadline.

Important Notes

• Applicants who have previously received funding from the Humboldt Foundation are not eligible to apply again but may access alumni programmes.

• All applicants must adhere to principles of good scientific practice and research ethics.

• The application deadline is 10 February 2026.

Apply Now

Interested candidates are encouraged to register and apply online before the deadline to be considered for the International Climate Protection Fellowship.

All the best for your application!

For more opportunities, please Click Here.