Walter Benjamin Programme

The Walter Benjamin Programme by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) provides funding for early-career researchers to carry out an independent research project at a suitable research institution, either in Germany or abroad. It is designed to support the development of independent research careers and international mobility for postdoctoral researchers. The program offers a long-running funding package, including salary support or fellowships, plus project-specific allowances and potential publishing support.

Salary as a postdoctoral position (inside Germany) or a monthly fellowship (outside Germany), project allowances, travel allowances, living allowances, child allowances, and potential funding for publishing costs (up to 5,000 euros per year).

Applicants must be early-career researchers after completing their PhD and have a proposal for an independent research project hosted by a suitable institution, with an emphasis on scientific independence and mobility.

Submit a research proposal and supporting documents through the DFG Elan Portal, including a host institution statement and host institution support.