The KWI International Fellowship Programme offers an exciting opportunity for researchers in the humanities, cultural studies, and social sciences to conduct innovative research at the Institute for Advanced Study in the Humanities (KWI) in Essen, Germany.
This 6-month fellowship, running from 1 April 2026 to 30 September 2026, provides a supportive environment for scholars to advance their research while engaging with a vibrant academic and cultural community in the Ruhr Area. You can also checkout Harvard Radcliffe Fellowship
About KWI
The KWI is an interdisciplinary research institute located in the heart of Germany’s Ruhr Area, dedicated to advanced study in the humanities and social sciences. It fosters independent and innovative research with a focus on:
- Literary and cultural sociology
- Cultural science studies
- Science communication
- Visual literacy
- Public humanities
- Cultures of communication
KWI encourages international collaboration and interdisciplinary approaches, connecting philology, cultural studies, and social sciences. The institute also hosts the Academy in Exile, providing a safe space for researchers whose academic freedom is at risk.
Fellowship Details
Duration
- 6 months: 1 April 2026 – 30 September 2026
What’s Provided
- Monthly Allowance: €3,000 (pre-tax) to cover rent, insurance, and living expenses.
- Travel Reimbursement: Partial coverage for travel to and from KWI.
- Resources: Modern office space, technical support, library services, event management, and administrative support.
- No Teaching Obligations: Fellows are not required to teach but may participate in lectures or seminars at nearby universities if desired.
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Eligibility
- Open to researchers worldwide with a PhD and up to 6 years of post-doctoral experience.
- German nationals are eligible only if employed at an international institute.
- Strong command of English is required; knowledge of German is not necessary.
- Research proposals must align with KWI’s research agenda (visit KWI Research Agenda).
Expectations
Fellows are expected to:
- Dedicate their time to research aligned with KWI’s programmatic agenda.
- Be present at KWI at least 3 days per week.
- Actively participate in KWI’s academic events, such as colloquia, lectures, conferences, and reading groups.
- Contribute to the KWI Blog.
- Optionally organize a workshop (based on available resources and scheduling).
- Acknowledge KWI in any publications resulting from the fellowship.
- Attend entry and exit interviews.
- Start the fellowship on 1 April 2026 (non-negotiable).
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Fellows can pursue various project formats, such as completing a book, finalizing a research proposal, or establishing collaborations with universities in the University Alliance Ruhr (UA Ruhr).
Academic and Cultural Opportunities
Academic Landscape
Fellows will benefit from KWI’s connections to the University Alliance Ruhr, which includes the universities of Duisburg-Essen, Bochum, and Dortmund. Nearby institutions like the universities of Düsseldorf, Cologne, Münster, Bielefeld, and the Folkwang University of the Arts in Essen offer additional collaboration opportunities. Cross-border programs with Belgium and the Netherlands further enrich the academic experience.
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The Ruhr Area
Located in Essen and Duisburg, the Ruhr Area is a vibrant metropolitan region with over 5 million inhabitants. Known as the European Capital of Culture in 2010, it combines a rich cultural scene with green spaces and modern urban landscapes. Nearby cities like Cologne and Düsseldorf, as well as day-trip destinations in the Netherlands and Belgium, add to the region’s appeal.
How to Apply
Application Requirements
Submit a single PDF file (max. 20 MB) containing:
- CV
- List of publications
- PhD certificate
- Project proposal (up to 5,000 characters) outlining your research and its alignment with KWI’s agenda.
See this: NAEd/Spencer Postdoctoral Fellowship
Submission Details
- Email: Send applications to [email protected].
- Deadline: 29 August 2025, 24:00 (midnight, CET).
- Applications must be in English.
- Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.
- External platform links (e.g., cloud storage) are not accepted due to IT security regulations.
Selection Process
Applications are reviewed by a committee, including members of the KWI governing board and the institute’s director. For more details, check the KWI FAQs.
Don’t miss this chance to join a dynamic research community! Apply by 29 August 2025 to secure your spot.
