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About the DAAD PRIME Fellowship Program
Are you a postdoctoral researcher seeking international research opportunities with a strong connection to Germany’s academic landscape? The DAAD PRIME Fellowship Program 2025 is an exceptional, fully funded opportunity to carry out independent research abroad while being employed by a German university. With a competitive salary, family support, and reintegration into the German academic system, this fellowship is ideal for highly qualified researchers planning to build a long-term scientific career in Germany.
The DAAD PRIME (Postdoctoral Researchers International Mobility Experience) Fellowship is funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) and implemented by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD).
It is designed for postdoctoral researchers of any nationality who aim to gain international research experience while strengthening their ties to Germany’s scientific ecosystem. Successful applicants will be employed by a German university for 18 months, including:
- 12 months of research abroad, and
- 6 months of return phase in Germany for reintegration.
The fellowship promotes both international collaboration and long-term academic careers in Germany.
Eligibility Criteria
This program is not for PhD students, but for postdoctoral researchers who have already completed their doctorate and are aiming to continue their research careers in Germany.
- You must have completed your PhD (doctorate) with excellent results before the start of the fellowship.
- You can apply within 6 years of earning your doctoral degree.
- Applicants of all nationalities and disciplines are welcome.
- You must not hold a permanent employment contract with the proposed host university.
- You must commit to both parts of the fellowship:
- A 12-month research stay abroad, and
- A 6-month return phase at the same or another German university.
- If you are currently residing outside Germany, you must express a clear intent to continue your research career in Germany after the program.
Eligible Countries
- Open to applicants from all countries worldwide
Eligible Fields
- All academic disciplines are eligible.
Selection Criteria
- Academic excellence
- Strength of the research proposal
- Feasibility and relevance of the host institution abroad
- Applicant’s potential to contribute to German science long-term
- Letter of recommendation
- Commitment to returning to Germany after the international phase
Benefits of the DAAD PRIME Fellowship Program
The DAAD PRIME Fellowship is fully funded and offers one of the most competitive support packages for postdoctoral mobility:
1. Salary
- An 18-month employment contract with a German university
- Paid under the TV-L EG 13 public pay scale (~€70,000 – €80,000 annually depending on experience)
2. Expatriation Allowance
- Monthly allowance for the 12-month stay abroad, calculated based on the host country and gross salary
3. Travel Allowance
- Lump-sum travel subsidy to support relocation
4. Family Support
- Spouses and children may receive additional support if accompanying the fellow abroad for at least one month
5. Research Flexibility
- The 12-month stay abroad can include multiple countries or research institutions depending on your proposal
Documents Required
Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents (in English except for certificates):
- Completed application form (available on the DAAD portal)
- Research proposal
- CV and list of publications
- Proof of PhD (certificate)
- Letter of recommendation from an academic supervisor
- Statement of interest for returning to Germany
- Confirmation from German host university about employment and support
How to Apply
Follow these steps to submit a complete and competitive application:
- Visit the official DAAD Fellowship Page
- Access the Application Portal:
- Go to the DAAD application portal via “Stipendiendatenbank für Deutsche”
- Register as a new user to access the form
- Download the Recommendation Form:
- After registering, generate and download the form for the letter of recommendation
- Prepare and Upload All Documents:
- Upload all required PDFs to the portal
- Ensure clarity, accuracy, and proper formatting
- Submit Before the Deadline:
- You can update your application up until the August 29, 2025 deadline
Final Thoughts
The DAAD PRIME Fellowship is a prestigious program for ambitious postdocs ready to engage in cutting-edge international research while preparing for a long-term academic career in Germany. If you have a compelling research proposal, strong academic record, and a vision for your role in Germany’s research landscape, this opportunity is for you.
Apply early, plan your research timeline carefully, and reach out to a host institution in Germany well in advance to secure their support.
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
See also:
Tokyo University Amgen Scholars Program 2025: Apply Now!
The Letten Prize 2025 for Researchers: Apply Now!
World Trade Organization Internship Program 2025
Apply for the $5,000 Pathways Access Scholarship
