Forschungswerkstatt – Your idea for tomorrow
The program is aimed at early-career researchers, though this time only up to two years after completing their doctorate. It supports the development of promising research ideas with up to 100,000 euros for a period of three to twelve months. The goal is to give researchers transitioning from the doctoral to the postdoctoral phase the opportunity to develop their ideas to the point where they can be submitted to renowned funding agencies.
- Only researchers whose contracts expire by the planned start date of the funding or who are funded at a maximum of 50% are eligible to apply (please indicate this clearly in your CV).
- Funding is available for research ideas in the early stages for which only a rough concept exists. The application must clearly outline the preparatory work that still needs to be done to flesh out the idea and refine its formulation before the application is submitted.
- The timeline should be clearly aligned with the planned proposal submission date. Waiting periods until the funding agency’s decision can also be covered, provided that the activities during the waiting phase are clearly related to the proposed research project.
- Applications with the same project idea that were rejected in the previous round may also be submitted.
- Applications can be submitted in German or English.
Please also note that your application must include a letter of recommendation from an expert in the relevant field who will supervise the project at the University of Mannheim.
The earliest start date for the project is September 1, 2026. The latest start date for the project is November 15, 2026.
Please note: Applications must be submitted through the university administration and signed by the chancellor.
- Internal deadline: April 30, 2026
Please submit your complete application for review by this date to eva.johachuni-mannheim.de, including your current pay grade. You cannot apply directly to the foundation.