CATS Fellowships 2026/2027 in Berlin, Germany (Fully Funded): Monthly €3,000 Stipend, Travel Support & Global Eligibility

The CATS Fellowships 2026/2027 in Berlin, Germany is now open for applications. This prestigious fully funded fellowship is designed for researchers, policy experts, think tank professionals, and practitioners working on Turkey-related issues. Hosted by the Centre for Applied Turkey Studies (CATS) at the German Institute for International and Security Affairs (SWP), the fellowship offers a unique opportunity to conduct impactful research in one of Europe’s leading academic and policy environments.

Applicants from all countries can apply, and there is no application fee.

The fellowship runs for 6 to 12 months, beginning from September 2026, and selected fellows will be based in Berlin, Germany.

Why Apply for the CATS Fellowship?

This program is ideal for scholars and professionals seeking to deepen their expertise in Turkish politics, security, climate policy, digital transformation, and geopolitical affairs while collaborating with leading researchers in Germany.

Selected fellows will gain access to a world-class research network, publication opportunities, and financial support to focus fully on their projects.

Fellowship Benefits

The CATS Fellowship is fully funded and includes:

• Monthly grant of €3,000
• Travel allowance to and from Berlin
• Budget for research trips
• Tuition support
• Participation in field trips
• Additional family support for fellows accompanied by children
• Collaboration opportunities with CATS and SWP researchers
• Possibility of publishing research in peer-reviewed CATS and SWP outlets

Research Topics for 2026/2027

Applicants are invited to submit proposals under the following themes:

1. Digitalisation and Artificial Intelligence

Research may explore Turkey’s AI strategy, digital governance, cyber resilience, defense modernization, labor markets, and economic transformation through emerging technologies.

2. Critical Raw Materials (CRMs)

Topics include Turkey’s rare earth minerals strategy, extraction policies, geopolitical competition, industrial upgrading, and EU-Turkey cooperation on critical resources.

3. Energy Transition and Climate Change

Applicants may focus on Turkey’s climate commitments, water scarcity, renewable energy strategy, governance reforms, and environmental security.

4. Turkish Foreign and Security Policy Amid Geopolitical Turmoil

Areas include NATO dynamics, Black Sea security, South Caucasus relations, regional power competition, maritime strategy, and energy corridors.

Who Should Apply?

This fellowship is suitable for:

• Postdoctoral researchers
• Academics and scholars
• Think tank analysts
• Policy experts
• Practitioners in relevant sectors
• Researchers with strong publication records
• PhD candidates with proven expertise in Turkey-related research

Required Application Documents

Applicants must submit one single PDF file containing:

• Cover letter
• Research proposal (maximum 5 pages)
• Research objectives and relevance
• State of research overview
• Methodology
• Bibliography
• CV with list of publications
• Academic transcripts and/or diplomas

Applications may be submitted in English or German.

Selection Criteria

Applications will be assessed based on:

• Academic and professional merit
• Relevance to fellowship themes
• Feasibility and coherence of proposal
• Public outreach value of the project

Preference may be given to applicants who have not previously received CATS funding in cases of equal merit.

Deadline

The application deadline is 30 April 2026. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

How to Apply

Send your complete application as a single PDF document via email to:

CATSapplication@swp-berlin.org

For inquiries: CATS@swp-berlin.org

APPLY HERE. 

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Final Thoughts

If you are a researcher or policy professional looking for a fully funded fellowship in Europe, the CATS Fellowships 2026/2027 in Germany is an outstanding opportunity. With generous funding, access to influential networks, and a chance to contribute to high-level policy research, this fellowship can significantly advance your academic and professional career.