Fellowship Overview
KWI – Institute for Advanced Study in the Humanities (Essen) invites applications for the Thyssen@KWI Fellowship 2026 –2027, a fully funded international research fellowship for postdoctoral researchers (R3 level) in humanities, cultural studies, and social sciences. It is a highly competitive residential programme that offers engagement with global academic networks while strengthening independent and collaborative research careers.
The fellowship is linked to KWI’s core research areas, including Constellations of Historical Impact, Visual Literacy, Aesthetic Practices, Dialogues Between Cultural and Social Sciences, and Science Studies. Moreover, it encourages interdisciplinary approaches connecting humanities and social sciences with global debates. Researchers in culture, media, history, philosophy, sociology, and related fields are especially suited. In addition, it supports innovative theoretical and empirical projects contributing to public humanities and academic collaboration.
Fellows undertake a six-month research residency (1 October 2026 to 31 March 2027) in Essen, Germany. During this period, they participate in seminars, workshops, colloquia, and expert-led discussions in a vibrant research environment. The programme encourages intellectual exchange and interdisciplinary dialogue while allowing fellows to focus on research outputs, including publications and long-term academic projects.
Applicants must hold a completed PhD in humanities, cultural studies, social sciences, or related fields, along with several years of postdoctoral research experience and a strong publication record. Researchers from diverse academic backgrounds and global institutions are strongly encouraged to apply.
The fellowship offers a monthly allowance of €4,000 (pre-tax) and partial travel support. However, additional expenses such as conferences must be covered from the stipend. Overall, this fellowship offers excellent opportunities for international exposure, academic growth, and advanced research development in Germany.
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Fellowship Details
- Fellowship Name: Thyssen@KWI Fellowship 2026–2027
- Fellowship Type: Fully Funded Postdoctoral Fellowship
- Host Institution: KWI (Kulturwissenschaftliches Institut Essen)/Institute for Advanced Study in the Humanities (Essen)
- Funding Agency: Fritz Thyssen Foundation
- Location: Essen
- Country: Germany
- Research Fields: Humanities, Cultural Studies, Social Sciences
- Duration: 6 months
- Start Date: 1 October 2026
- Deadline: 11 May 2026 (23:59 CET)
- Funding: €4,000 per month (pre-tax) + partial travel support
- Career Level: Postdoctoral (R3 level)
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Research Areas
- Humanities and Cultural Studies
- Social Sciences and Interdisciplinary Research
- Visual Literacy and Aesthetic Practices
- Science Studies and Cultural Analysis
- Historical and Contemporary Cultural Research
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Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- PhD in humanities, cultural studies, social sciences, or related fields
- Strong postdoctoral research experience (R3 level)
- Established publication record in academic journals or equivalent outputs
- Independent research project distinct from PhD work
- International academic experience is strongly preferred
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Fellowship Benefits
- Monthly stipend of €4,000 (pre-tax)
- Access to modern research facilities and office space
- Library, technical, and administrative support
- Participation in seminars, workshops, and colloquia
- Opportunity for interdisciplinary collaboration
- Partial reimbursement of travel expenses
- International research networking opportunities
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct an independent postdoctoral research project
- Participate actively in KWI academic events
- Contribute to the KWI Blog and research discussions
- Engage in interdisciplinary collaboration
- Maintain on-site presence (minimum 3 days per week)
- Support academic exchange within the institute
Application Process
Applicants must submit a single PDF file via email to: 📧 international.fellowship@uni-due.de
Subject line: “Thyssen@KWI-Fellowship”
Required Documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Publication list
- PhD certificate
- Research proposal (max 5,000 characters)
- Supporting academic documents (if applicable)
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Ongoing
- Application Deadline: 11 May 2026 (23:59 CET)
- Fellowship Period: 1 October 2026 – 31 March 2027
- Selection Process: Post-deadline review by committee
Where to Apply
Institution: KWI (Kulturwissenschaftliches Institut Essen)
City: Essen
Country: Germany
Funding Body: Fritz Thyssen Foundation
Official Information
- Source: KWI / Fritz Thyssen Foundation
- Official Notification: Call: Thyssen@KWI Fellowship
- Apply Email: international.fellowship@uni-due.de
This fellowship offers an outstanding opportunity for researchers seeking fully funded postdoctoral positions in Germany, international academic collaboration, and advanced interdisciplinary research at KWI Essen.
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