Opus Magnum Fellowship 2025 by Volkswagen Foundation, Hanover, Germany
About the Fellowship
The Opus Magnum Fellowship by the Volkswagen Foundation supports professors in the humanities, cultural studies, and social sciences working at German universities. The fellowship allows scholars to complete significant academic works—such as a book or major publication—by covering the cost of hiring a replacement to manage their regular teaching and administrative duties. This initiative fosters in-depth scholarship and aligns with the Foundation’s aim to promote cutting-edge research that contributes to academic and public discourse.
Fellowship Details
- Position: Opus Magnum Fellowship
- Institution: Affiliated German University or Research Institution
- Administering Body: Volkswagen Foundation (VolkswagenStiftung)
- Location: Hanover, Germany (Foundation); host institution within Germany
- Research Field: Humanities, Cultural Studies, Social Sciences
- Type: Fellowship
- Duration: Up to 2 years
- Start Date (Anticipated): Flexible, post-approval
- Working Hours: As per institutional norms; fellow is released from teaching/admin responsibilities
- Funding/Compensation:
- Salary for a substitute (W2/W3 level teaching replacement)
- Additional funds for travel, research materials, and project-related expenses
- Required Degree/Diploma: Professorial appointment at the W2 or W3 level
Research Areas Supported
- Philosophy
- History
- Archaeology
- Political Science
- Sociology
- Anthropology
- Literature
- Cultural Studies
- Other related humanities and social science fields
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Professors (W2 or W3) at German universities or research institutions
- Field of expertise in humanities, cultural studies, or social sciences
Preferred Qualifications:
- Strong record of publications
- Evidence of a major ongoing or proposed scholarly project
- Institutional support for teaching substitution
Not Eligible:
- Non-German institutional affiliations
- Junior researchers below professorial level (W1 or below)
Fellowship/Job Benefits
- Full funding for substitute teaching and administrative duties
- Research and project-related expense support
- Time and institutional space for uninterrupted academic writing
- Visibility through the support of a prestigious foundation
Key Responsibilities
- Focus exclusively on the preparation of a major academic publication
- Maintain coordination with the host university to ensure continuity in teaching
- Optional participation in public engagement or dissemination activities
Application Process
How to Apply:
- Applications must be submitted by the host university on behalf of the professor
- Submit via Volkswagen Foundation’s online portal
Required Documents:
- Detailed project proposal
- Applicant’s CV and publication list
- Statement from the university confirming the substitution plan
- Budget and timeline
- Supporting documents as required
Important Dates
- Application Opens: Currently open
- Deadline: 04 November 2025, 12:00 noon CET
- Interview Period: Not specified
- Final Results Notification: Spring 2026 (tentative)
- Start of Fellowship: Upon funding approval and institutional scheduling
Where to Apply
- Institution Website: https://www.volkswagenstiftung.de
- Fellowship/Job Posting: Opus Magnum Fellowship Page
- Application Portal: Apply Here
📧 Contact for Queries: opus-magnum@volkswagenstiftung.de
