Programme Overview
The Gerda Henkel Stiftung in Germany offers prestigious research scholarships for post‑doctorate scholars and senior researchers working in history, archaeology and related humanities disciplines. This fully funded programme supports independent research projects across key subjects in the historical and cultural humanities. Applicants from all countries can apply, and institutional affiliation is not required for individual research grants.
Scholarships are available for qualified academics who have completed their PhD and demonstrate an original research proposal. The foundation places particular emphasis on projects that contribute meaningfully to historical knowledge and cultural heritage research, enabling scholars to focus entirely on their work.
The research scholarship can be granted for between one and twenty‑four months, providing scholars with dedicated time and support to pursue impactful academic outcomes. Researchers benefit from the foundation’s international network, fostering interdisciplinary exchange and collaboration.
Explore fully funded research opportunities in History and Archaeology and related Humanities disciplines for postdoctoral scholars, historians, archaeologists, and international researchers.
Details
- Scholarship name: Gerda Henkel Research Scholarship
- Scholarship Type: Post PhD Scholarship
- Host Institution: Gerda Henkel Stiftung
- Administering Body / Funding Agency: Gerda Henkel Stiftung
- Location: Düsseldorf, Germany
- Research Field(s): History and Archaeology
- Scholarship Type: Research Scholarship
- Career Level: Post-PhD / Postdoctoral / Senior Researchers
- Duration: 1–24 months
- Expected Start Date: December 2026 (earliest)
- Working Hours: Full-time research scholarship
- Funding / Compensation: Monthly stipend with travel and research expense support
- Required Degree / Diploma: PhD or equivalent qualification
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Supported Research Fields / Areas
This programme supports research in:
- History
- Archaeology
- Historical Islamic Studies
- History of Law
- History of Science
- Prehistory and Early History
- Art History
The foundation welcomes applications from neighbouring disciplines as long as the core research question remains historically oriented.
Find more Fully funed Archaeology and Heritage Studies research jobs, postdoctoral fellowships, and academic positions for international scholars and researchers worldwide.
Eligibility & Qualifications
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a PhD or equivalent formal academic qualification.
- For research scholarships for postdoctoral researchers, the PhD must have been awarded within the last 10 years.
- The doctoral thesis must already be published at the time of application.
- The proposed research must clearly differ from the applicant’s PhD topic.
- Applicants previously awarded a foundation research scholarship must have received it at least five years earlier.
- A previously rejected project cannot be resubmitted within three years after rejection.
Applicants cannot receive simultaneous salary or pension in addition to the scholarship.
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Scholarship Benefits
Scholarship benefits include:
- Postdoctoral Research Scholarship: €2,760 per month
- Family allowance: €480 for one child, €120 per additional child (children under 18)
- Monthly endowment for overseas research: €690
- Travel and material support as required
- Advanced/Senior Research Scholarship (Post‑Habilitation or Equivalent): €3,720 per month
- Family allowance and overseas endowment increased to €930
- Travel and material support as required
In systems where habilitation or a second academic qualification is not standard, holding a permanent senior academic position (e.g., Associate/Full Professor) is usually recognised as equivalent.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct advanced research in history or archaeology
- Develop independent research projects and outputs
- Collaborate with international scholars and research networks
- Publish research findings and present results in academic forums
Application Process
Submit the application through the official online application system of Gerda Henkel Stiftung
Required Documents
- Research proposal (max. 8 pages + bibliography if necessary)
- Time schedule and working plan
- Detailed cost calculation (including travel and material costs in euros)
- CV in tabular format with publication list
- Academic certificates (Masters, PhD, etc.)
- At least one signed letter of recommendation uploaded via the foundation’s online recommendation form
All documents must be in PDF format and correctly uploaded; incomplete applications cannot be submitted.
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Currently open
- Application Deadline: 28 May 2026
- Interview Period: TBC
- Selection Committee Meeting: November 2026
- Earliest Possible Start: December 2026
Where to Apply / Useful Links
- Gerda Henkel Stiftung Website: Gerda Henkel Foundation
- Official Scholarship Announcement: Gerda Henkel Research Scholarship (Post-PhD)
- Application Portal: Submit your application through the foundation website
📧 Contact for Queries
Email: podranski@gerda-henkel-stiftung.de
This scholarship provides an excellent opportunity for international scholars seeking Fully Funded research support and global academic collaboration in Germany. It enables researchers to develop high-impact scholarship, strengthen international research networks, and advance academic careers in History and Archaeology.
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