About the Fellowship
The Doucet Scholarship offers an opportunity for early-career researchers, especially those from Latin America, to undertake a focused three-month research stay at the Max Planck Institute for Legal History and Legal Theory in Frankfurt. This fellowship supports projects that engage directly with the Doucet Collection—an extensive archive central to the study of colonial law and legal history. By enabling access to rare monographs and historical editions, the scholarship helps advance critical interdisciplinary and archival research. Fellows benefit from the Institute’s scholarly environment, expert support, and access to unique resources, contributing to global conversations in historical legal studies. The programme aligns with the Institute’s mission to foster international collaboration and legal-historical research of global relevance.
Fellowship / Details
- Position Title: Doucet Scholarship for Young Researchers
- Host Institution: Max Planck Institute for Legal History and Legal Theory
- Administering Body / Funding Agency: Max Planck Institute for Legal History and Legal Theory
- Location: Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Research Field(s): Legal History, Colonial Law, Archival Studies
- Fellowship Type: Research Fellowship / Visiting Fellowship
- Level: Early-career
- Fellowship Duration: 3 months
- Expected Start Date: January 2026
- Working Hours: As per institutional norms
- Funding/Compensation: €1,365 monthly stipend; flight reimbursement (up to €1,500 for transatlantic flights, €750 within Europe); optional residence accommodation (€680/month)
- Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s degree
Supported Research Fields / Areas
- Legal History
- Colonial Law
- Latin American Legal Systems
- Historical Monographs and Archival Studies
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field
- Applicants must be based outside Germany, preferably from Latin America
- Project must be directly related to the Doucet Collection
Preferred Qualifications:
- Previous experience in archival research
- Clear motivation for using the Doucet Collection
- Strong academic or research track record
Fellowship/Job Benefits
- Monthly stipend or salary: €1,365 for three months
- Travel allowance: Reimbursement up to €1,500 (transatlantic) or €750 (Europe)
- Accommodation: Option to rent Institute residence (~€680/month)
- Research resources: Access to archives, libraries, and institutional facilities
- International exposure: Engage with a vibrant academic community
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct independent research aligned with the Doucet Collection
- Participate in Institute activities and academic discussions
- Produce high-quality research output by the end of the stay
- Engage with fellow scholars and contribute to a collaborative environment
Application Process
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted via the Institute’s online application form. Required materials should be written in English or Spanish.
Required Documents:
- Completed online application form
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Project description outlining relevance to the Doucet Collection
- Motivation letter
Important Dates
- Application Opens: Open now
- Deadline: 15 September 2025 (23:59 CET)
- Fellowship Start Date: 5 January 2026
Where to Apply
- Institution Website: Max Planck Institute for Legal History and Legal Theory
- Official Fellowship Notification: The Doucet Scholarship Call 2026 | Max-Planck-Institut für Rechtsgeschichte und Rechtstheorie
- Apply Online Here: The Doucet Scholarship Call 2026
