About the Grant
The University of Bayreuth Centre of International Excellence “Alexander von Humboldt” is inviting applications for its prestigious Starter Grant Programme 2026. Open to researchers from all disciplines, this competitive programme supports innovative, high-quality research projects in collaboration with a local host at the University of Bayreuth (UBT). The grant promotes international academic exchange across disciplines, cultures, and career stages, while fostering connections between research, society, and policy. Successful grantees will join UBT’s vibrant research environment and benefit from its seven faculties and state-of-the-art facilities. The programme is ideal for scholars seeking to expand their research networks, deliver impactful outcomes such as joint publications, conferences, or workshops, and contribute to the university’s global research profile.
Grant Details
- Grant Name: Starter Grant Programme 2026
- Funding Agency/Institution: University of Bayreuth Centre of International Excellence “Alexander von Humboldt”
- Location: Bayreuth, Germany
- Research Field(s): All disciplines (with specific rulings for African Studies)
- Grant Type: Seed grant / Individual or collaborative research funding
- Project Duration: Up to 15 months (final report required after project completion)
- Funding Amount: €10,000 (plus €250/month family allowance for grantees with at least one child)
- Grant Start Date (Expected): Within one year of official acceptance
- Mode of Research: Individual or collaborative with a local UBT host
- Application Type: Open call
Research Areas Supported
- Natural Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Earth Sciences)
- Engineering and Technology (Mechanical, Electrical, Computer Science, Civil, Environmental Engineering)
- Life Sciences (Biotechnology, Genetics, Microbiology, Neuroscience, Public Health)
- Social Sciences (Sociology, Political Science, Economics, Education, International Relations)
- Humanities (History, Philosophy, Literature, Linguistics, Cultural Studies)
- Law and Governance (International Law, Human Rights, Public Policy)
- Arts and Design (Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Architecture, Design Studies)
- Environmental Studies and Sustainability (Climate Change, Ecology, Renewable Energy)
- Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (Machine Learning, Big Data Analytics, Robotics)
- Interdisciplinary Research combining multiple fields
Eligibility Criteria
Minimum Requirements
- Academic Qualifications: PhD or equivalent research experience
- Career Stage: Open to researchers at all career stages affiliated with institutions abroad
- Nationality/Residency: Applicants must be based outside Germany
- Affiliation Requirements: Must collaborate with a University of Bayreuth host
- Experience Level: Demonstrated academic excellence with a strong publication record
Preferred Qualifications
- Evidence of impactful research outcomes (e.g., high-ranking publications, conferences, workshops)
- Strong potential for long-term collaboration with UBT
Not Eligible
- Applicants without a confirmed UBT host
- Projects on African Studies hosted by members of the Cluster of Excellence (as per § 11 (3) regulations)
Grant Benefits
- Funding Support: €10,000 to cover all project realisation costs
- Family Allowance: €250/month for grantees with at least one child
- Research Collaboration: Access to UBT’s facilities, offices, and laboratories
- Follow-up Funding: Eligibility for the €20,000 Booster Grant upon successful completion
- Professional Development: Integration into UBT’s research community and networking opportunities
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct the approved research project in collaboration with a UBT host
- Submit a final report within 15 months of grant acceptance
- Deliver measurable academic outputs such as publications, events, or collaborative initiatives
- Adhere to ethical research standards and the official application guidelines
Application Process
How to Apply
- Submission Mode: Online application form
- Application Portal: Bayreuth Humboldt Centre Website
Submission Steps
- Identify and confirm a local host at UBT
- Prepare your research proposal and budget plan
- Complete the online application form
- Upload all required documents
- Submit before the deadline
Required Documents
- Completed application form
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Detailed research proposal / project description
- Budget plan
- Letter of endorsement from the UBT host
- Ethical approval statement (if applicable)
- Relevant publications or prior work samples
Important Dates
- Call Opens: Now
- Deadline: 31 October 2025 (23:59 CET)
- Results Notification: Expected early 2026
- Project Start Date: Within one year of acceptance
Where to Apply
- Institution Website: University of Bayreuth
- Official Grant Page: Bayreuth Humboldt Centre Starter Grant
- Apply Online: Application Portal
- 📧 Contact for Queries : Email: humboldt-centre@uni-bayreuth.de
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