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About the Zukunftskolleg Konnect Fellowships
Applications are now open for the Zukunftskolleg Konnect Fellowships 2025, an incredible opportunity for early-career researchers from Africa, Asia, and Latin America to enhance their academic experience at the University of Konstanz, Germany. This fellowship aims to bridge researchers to the German and European academic landscapes while they maintain their positions at their home institutions.
The ZUKOnnect Fellowships support researchers whose projects align with one of the thirteen disciplines at the University of Konstanz. As a fellow, you will have the opportunity to expand your research network, engage with top-tier academics, and explore the unique research environment at the university. While the program is primarily intended for postdoctoral researchers, doctoral candidates in their final year are also encouraged to apply.
Note: The fellowship does not provide employment contracts; it is intended as a supplementary opportunity to support ongoing research.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the ZUKOnnect Fellowships, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Nationality and Residency:
- Born and currently working in a country in Africa, Asia, or Latin America.
- Academic Qualifications:
- Hold a doctorate (awarded after 15 February 2023) or are a doctoral student in their final year.
- Completed or will complete their doctorate at a university in Africa, Asia, or Latin America.
- Academic Position:
- Must not hold a permanent professorship or equivalent qualification (e.g., habilitation).
- Research Alignment:
- The research project must align with the disciplines represented at the University of Konstanz.
- Track Requirements:
- Track A: Name a researcher at the University of Konstanz for collaboration (no need to contact them in advance).
- Track B: Be nominated by a Konstanz (Junior) Professor.
Preference will be given to:
- Applicants collaborating with current Zukunftskolleg Fellows or within the university’s “Politics of Inequality” or “Collective Behaviour” clusters.
- Applicants from underrepresented countries within the Zukunftskolleg community.
Required Documents
Applicants are required to submit the following:
- Letter of Motivation (maximum 2 pages):
- Objectives for the research stay.
- Explanation of how the research aligns with the University of Konstanz’s academic landscape.
- Research Summary (maximum 3 pages, including references).
- Detailed Work and Time Plan (maximum 2 pages):
- Outline the activities planned during the on-campus research stay.
- Curriculum Vitae.
- Relevant Certificates:
- Doctoral certificate OR confirmation letter from the doctoral supervisor.
- Reference Letters:
- Track A: One academic letter of reference (signed and on official letterhead).
- Track B: Nomination letter from a Konstanz (Junior) Professor (submitted directly to the Zukunftskolleg).
Benefits of the ZUKOnnect Fellowships
The fellowship provides:
- Monthly Stipend:
- €1,300 for doctoral students.
- €2,000 for postdoctoral researchers.
- Travel Costs:
- One economy-class round trip to and from Konstanz.
- Research Allowance:
- Up to €750 (upon request).
- Digital Affiliation:
- Extends fellowship duration to 12 months with a lump sum of €900 for remote work.
- Language Courses:
- German language courses (online or on-site).
- Professional Development:
- Weekly seminars and workshops under the Career Kit Plus initiative (topics include academic writing, funding opportunities, and more).
- Networking and Community Engagement:
- Fellows go Local: Meetings with staff, PhD students, and community members for local integration.
- Research Return Visit:
- Opportunity for a University of Konstanz researcher to visit your home institution for collaboration.
How to Apply
- Prepare Your Documents:
- Ensure all required documents are complete and meet the specified page limits.
- Application Submission:
- Submit your application via the Zukunftskolleg official portal linked below.
- For Track B applicants, ensure the Konstanz Professor sends the nomination letter directly to the Zukunftskolleg.
- Deadline:
- The application deadline is 1 February 2025.
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 at Swinburne University 2025