Philipp Schwartz Initiative of the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation

13 February 2026

Funding for politically persecuted researchers from countries outside the EU.

The aim of the funding is to enable outstanding female scientists who are at risk in their home countries to start a new career in science or science-related fields in Germany or other safe countries.

A mentor at the host university is required for the application. A statement accompanying the application must address the quality of the project and specific support measures. Applications are submitted via the University of Mannheim and coordinated by Department I.

The application deadline is 13 February 2026. The selection results are expected to be available at the end of May 2026. Funding can commence on 1 July 2026.

Application:
The link to the application form, the current programme documents and further information can be found on the Philipp Schwartz Initiative website.

If you are interested in becoming a host, you can find threatened researchers looking for a host institution here:

Scholars at Risk Network: https://www.scholarsatrisk.org/actions/host-a-scholar/
IIE Scholar Rescue Fund: https://www.scholarrescuefund.org/hosts/scholars-seeking-placement
Council for At-Risk Academics: https://www.cara.ngo/how-to-help/university-and-partner-support/

Funding
Scholarship funds per fellow for a period of up to 24 months. In addition, the host institution will receive a lump sum of 20,000 EUR for each Philipp Schwartz fellow hosted.

Conditions for application:
Research projects will be considered for funding by demonstrably at-risk researchers from all disciplines and countries of origin who

hold a doctorate or equivalent academic degree (Ph.D., C.Sc. or equivalent);
hold an current confirmation of threat
in general have not yet spent more than three years away from their home countries at the time of application;
demonstrate the language skills required for the successful completion of the research project;
have academic qualifications (e.g. publications);
have potential to be integrated into the (research-related) job market;
have not yet been funded in the context of the Philipp Schwartz Initiative.

What counts is the quality of the planned research project and the applicant's academic qualifications.

The mentor must provide a statement on the academic quality of the project and the planned support for the applicant's further career development.

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