Minerva Fellowship at Max Planck Society, Germany / Israel
About the Fellowship
The Minerva Fellowship Programme, administered by the Minerva Stiftung—a subsidiary of the Max Planck Society—offers exceptional early-career researchers from Germany and Israel the opportunity to undertake research stays in the respective other country. This initiative not only fosters high-caliber scientific research but also strengthens cultural and academic ties between the two nations. Fellows engage in collaborative projects across various disciplines, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and international cooperation.
Fellowship Details
- Position: Minerva Fellowship
- Institution: Max Planck Society / Host Institution in Germany or Israel
- Administering Body: Minerva Stiftung
- Location: Germany or Israel
- Research Field: Open to all disciplines
- Type: Full-time Fellowship
- Duration: 6 to 24 months (Doctoral Fellowships may extend up to 36 months)
- Start Date (Anticipated): Variable, post-acceptance
- Working Hours: As per host institution norms
- Funding/Compensation: Monthly stipend, travel allowance, health insurance
- Required Degree/Diploma:
- Master’s degree for doctoral candidates
- Ph.D. for postdoctoral applicants
Research Areas Supported
- Natural Sciences
- Life Sciences
- Engineering
- Social Sciences
- Humanities
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Completed Master’s degree for doctoral applicants
- Ph.D. degree or official confirmation of thesis submission by June 2025 for postdocs
- Citizenship or residency of Germany or Israel
Preferred Qualifications:
- Strong academic record and research experience
- Publications in peer-reviewed journals
- Ability to work collaboratively in international research settings
Not Eligible:
- Previous Minerva Fellowship recipients
- Late or incomplete applications
Fellowship/Job Benefits
- Visa sponsorship (if applicable)
- Monthly stipend covering living expenses
- Health insurance coverage
- Travel allowance for relocation
- Access to host institution facilities and resources
- Opportunities for academic development and networking
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct independent research in collaboration with host institution
- Participate in seminars, workshops, and conferences
- Present research findings and contribute to scholarly publications
- Engage actively with the academic community at the host institution
Application Process
How to Apply:
Submit applications online via the Lotus application platform
[https://lotus2.gwdg.de/mpg/mmmi/minerva_fellowships_2025_2.nsf/application]
Required Documents:
- Curriculum Vitae with publication list
- Academic certificates and transcripts
- Research proposal (max 5 pages) including abstract and keywords
- Letter of invitation from host institution
- Two letters of recommendation
Important Dates
- Application Opens: Currently open
- Deadline: 15 June 2025, 12:00 PM (UTC+2)
- Interview Period: Approximately 4–6 weeks after deadline
- Final Results Notification: October/November 2025
- Start of Fellowship: Variable
Where to Apply
- Institution Website: https://www.minerva.mpg.de/
- Fellowship/Job Posting: Minerva Fellowship – Application
- Application Portal: lotus2.gwdg.de/mpg/mmmi/minerva_fellowships_2025_2.nsf/application
