The criteria guiding the selection of Fellows are the researcher’s excellence and the attractiveness of their research plan. There are no limitations on disciplines or countries of origin; internationality and disciplinary diversity characterize the institute. Finding a new attractive and stimulating mixture of (about forty) personalities and projects for each "class" is the goal of the selection process. Along with the humanities and social sciences, which have traditionally been represented by numerous high-ranking researchers, the Wissenschaftskolleg also seeks to achieve a greater participation by scholars of the life sciences. Practically every year, one or two artists – usually writers or composers – also enrich the community of the Fellows.

Applications and suggestions can be submitted in writing at any time. The application should be accompanied by a curriculum vita, a list of publications, and a 3- to 5-page description of the work planned for the residency in Berlin. An article (in German, English, or French) should be included that, ideally, is related to the research plan and can provide an impression of the intended approach.

The selection of Fellows is a process with several steps. Initially, the candidate's personal qualifications and work project are decisive for selection. Among these qualified candidates, the choice is narrowed with a view to the composition of the year's "class". Fellow-appointment suggestions that are regarded as promising lead to queries in which the Wissenschaftskolleg invites the suggested parties to apply. The Rector consults with the Permanent Fellows and the Academic Advisory Board on all the applications and suggestions.

Since the selection process has several steps and the individual "classes" are put together iteratively (in the course of several meetings of the Academic Advisory Board), a decision can take a longer time. Invitations are made explicitly for a specific academic year and a specific group composition; the first Fellows are chosen about two years in advance.

More information on the stipends and on Living and Working at the Wissenschaftskolleg can be found here.

Contact partner:
Dr. Katharina Biegger

Application Instructions