About the Scholarship
Gerda Henkel Stiftung welcomes applications for a fully funded PhD scholarship in Archaeology and Historical Humanities. The programme provides comprehensive support, covering living expenses, research costs, and full-time funding, allowing scholars to focus entirely on their research. Recipients gain access to personalised mentorship, specialised workshops, and state-of-the-art resources across a wide range of historical disciplines.
The scholarship focuses on Archaeology, History of Art, Historical Islamic Studies, History, History of Law, Prehistory and Early History, and History of Science, allowing candidates to explore projects using historical methodologies, archival research, and interdisciplinary approaches. Scholars will collaborate with international experts, enhancing both the quality and impact of their research.
This opportunity is ideal for candidates with a background in relevant fields, preparing them for academic, research, or professional careers. The programme emphasises diversity, supports underrepresented groups, and encourages interdisciplinary research, while also facilitating participation in conferences, professional events, and publications to strengthen future career prospects.
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Scholarship Details
- Scholarship Name: Gerda Henkel Stiftung PhD Scholarship
- Institution/Provider: Gerda Henkel Stiftung
- Administering Organisation: Gerda Henkel Stiftung
- Location: Germany
- Level of Study: PhD
- Field of Study: Archaeology, History, Art History, Historical Islamic Studies, History of Law, Prehistory and Early History, History of Science
- Mode of Study: Full-time
- Duration: Up to 2 years, with a possible 12-month extension
- Start Date (Expected): Flexible
- Application Mode: Online
- Scholarship Type: Fully funded
- Required Degree / Diploma: Master’s or equivalent with minimum grade 1.5 (foreign certificates assessed separately)
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Supported Fields of Study
The scholarship supports research in the following areas:
- Archaeology – Excavation, material culture, and regional studies
- History of Art – Artistic movements, visual culture, and heritage research
- Historical Islamic Studies – Religion, society, and historical contexts
- History – Political, social, and economic histories across regions
- History of Science – Development of scientific thought and practice
- History of Law – Legal systems, legislation, and historical jurisprudence
- Prehistory and Early History – Human origins, ancient societies, and early cultures
Eligible projects may include:
- Comparative studies across regions and time periods
- Archival research and historical document analysis
- Interdisciplinary approaches combining multiple fields
- Use of traditional and digital research methodologies
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Eligibility Criteria
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree with a grade of 1.5 or better, or equivalent foreign qualification
- Applicant must not have been older than 27 at graduation; age extensions considered for night school, childcare, military service, work experience, or other exceptional circumstances
- Full-time commitment to research
- English or German language proficiency
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in historical research methods
- Prior publications or conference participation
- Interdisciplinary research potential
Not Eligible:
- Projects with a predominantly contemporary focus
- Applications exceeding 12 months for final scholarships if already funded by another source
- Applicants receiving a salary or pension
- Only individual PhD scholarships are awarded; no part-time options beyond 5 hours/week
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Financial Coverage / Funding Benefits
- Monthly living stipend
- Travel allowances for stays abroad, including endowments for scholarships abroad if necessary
- Family grants for children under 18
- Material and research-related expenses
- Support for student assistants
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct original research in historical humanities
- Collaborate with international researchers and institutions
- Participate in workshops, conferences, and professional development programmes
- Disseminate research findings through publications and presentations
Application Process
Applications must be submitted digitally via the Foundation’s portal and can be submitted at any time, with no fixed deadline. Only full-time applications are accepted.
Required Documents:
- Online application form
- Research proposal/project outline
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Letters of recommendation (minimum two)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Important Dates
- Application Opens: Anytime
- Application Deadline: Rolling submissions accepted
- Interview/Review Period: As applicable
- Result Announcement: Flexible
- Program Start Date: Upon award confirmation
Where to Apply
- Foundation Website: Gerda Henkel Stiftung Website
- Official Notification: PhD scholarships | Gerda Henkel Foundation
- Application Portal: Submit Your Application
📧 Contact for Queries
This PhD scholarship offers an excellent opportunity for international scholars seeking fully funded research support, interdisciplinary collaboration, and advanced research experience in Germany.
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