RIFS Fellow 2026 in Germany – Apply Now

RIFS Fellow Programme at Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS), Potsdam, Germany

About the Fellowship

The RIFS Fellow Programme 2026 is a prestigious opportunity for thought leaders, researchers, and professionals from around the world to contribute to transformative sustainability research. Hosted by the Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS), this fellowship enables up to 20 fellows annually to work collaboratively with interdisciplinary research groups and projects. Fellows explore cutting-edge ideas in sustainability through scientific inquiry, policy development, public engagement, and creative expression. The programme is ideal for individuals seeking to expand global networks, contribute meaningfully to sustainability discourse, and be part of a dynamic international research community.

Fellowship / Details

Position Title: RIFS Fellow (f_m_x)
Host Institution: Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS), GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences
Administering Body / Funding Agency: Helmholtz Association (Germany)
Location: Potsdam, Brandenburg, Germany
Research Field(s): Sustainability Science, Policy Research, Environmental Studies, Arts and Media, Interdisciplinary Research
Fellowship Type: Visiting Research Fellowship
Level: Mid-career to Senior-level (Open to Early-career with PhD)
Fellowship Duration: 6 to 12 months (extendable up to 24 months in exceptional cases)
Expected Start Date: April 2026 onwards
Working Hours: Full-time (as per institutional norms)
Funding/Compensation: Monthly stipend (based on seniority and family situation), relocation and travel reimbursement, optional housing support
Required Degree/Diploma:
- PhD or equivalent experience (for academic applicants)
- Relevant professional experience (for non-academic applicants)

Supported Research Fields / Areas

Climate and Energy
Democratic Transformations
Systemic Interconnections
Policy Innovation
Environmental Governance
Arts and Sustainability
Education and Public Engagement

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

PhD or similar level of expertise (academic applicants)
Minimum 3–5 years of relevant professional experience (non-academic applicants)
Alignment with at least one of the RIFS Research Themes and Groups
Proposal must complement RIFS’ current work programme
Proficiency in English
Open to applicants from all nationalities and sectors

Preferred Qualifications:

Strong publication or project record
Demonstrated leadership in sustainability-related initiatives
Previous international or interdisciplinary collaboration
Engagement in science-policy interface or community outreach

Not Eligible:

Proposals lacking alignment with RIFS research themes
Incomplete applications or documents not in English
Applications including personal identifiers in the project proposal

Fellowship/Job Benefits

Monthly stipend: Based on seniority and family situation
Relocation and travel support: For fellows and their families
Housing support: Access to limited institute apartments
Visa/residence assistance: Full support for relocation
Health insurance assistance
Research and networking support
Integration in a global alumni network of over 300 fellows

Key Responsibilities

Develop and implement an original project aligned with RIFS themes
Engage actively with RIFS research groups and international fellows
Contribute to sustainability transformations through chosen method (e.g., policy, research, education, art)
Participate in events, workshops, and networking activities
Produce clear outputs (publications, models, exhibitions, etc.) during the fellowship