Applications are now open for the RIFS Fellow Programme 2027 at the Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS), GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences in Potsdam, Germany. This prestigious fellowship invites around 10 innovative thinkers and practitioners from around the world to spend 6 to 12 months (extendable up to 24 months) working on sustainability transformation projects.
It is especially focused on the theme Sustainability in Tough Times – How to Move Forwards in Times of Backlash? The programme is open to candidates from all sectors including science, public administration, private sector, civil society, media, and the arts. It provides a monthly stipend based on seniority and family circumstances along with other support. There is no application fee. The deadline is 21 June 2026.
Key Details:
- Programme Name: RIFS Fellow Programme 2027
- Host Country: Germany
- Duration: 6 to 12 months (possible extension up to 24 months)
- Application Deadline: 21 June 2026 (23:59 CET)
- Application Fee: None
- Language: English only
What This Scholarship Offers:
Fellows get:
- A monthly stipend (amount depends on experience and family situation)
- Opportunity to work in a supportive international and transdisciplinary community
- Close collaboration with RIFS research groups and other fellows
- Financial and organisational support for their project activities
- Help in building national and international networks
- Access to limited institute apartments in Potsdam (for those coming from outside Germany or Europe)
- Practical assistance with housing, visa, health insurance, and family settlement matters
- A platform to develop and advance innovative ideas for sustainability transformations
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Eligibility Criteria:
- Open to applicants from all parts of the world and all sectors of society (science, government, business, civil society, media, arts)
- Proposed project must complement RIFS work programme and align with at least two research groups
- Strong encouragement to contact RIFS researchers before applying
- All application documents must be in English
- CV limited to maximum 3 pages
- Project proposal must use the official template
- No specific degree requirement (open to diverse professional backgrounds)
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Fields and Topics:
This fellowship is open and transdisciplinary. It welcomes projects in areas connected to sustainability. Main focus areas include:
- Sustainability Transformations
- Environmental Policy and Governance
- Climate Change and Justice
- Social and Political Aspects of Sustainability
- Transdisciplinary Research Methods
- Public Engagement and Communication
- Backlash against Sustainability Transitions
- Knowledge, Power, and Expert Authority
- Cross Sector Alliances for Sustainability
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Application and Selection Process:
- Internal screening
- External jury review of shortlisted proposals
- Possible interviews in November 2026
- Final results expected in November or early December 2026
How to Apply:
- Prepare your documents using the official templates and guidelines.
- Contact RIFS researchers in advance to ensure alignment with their work.
- Submit your application only through the official online portal before the deadline.
- Required documents (as separate PDFs):
- Project Proposal (using official template)
- CV and Achievements (maximum 3 pages)
- Optional Annex (publications, portfolio, etc.)
Important: Email applications are not accepted. Only complete applications following all rules will be reviewed.
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