Humboldt Research Award

The Humboldt Research Award is an annual science prize awarded by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation to internationally leading researchers from abroad for their overall academic achievements. Laureates receive prize money and are invited to carry out self-chosen research projects at a German research institution for a stay of half a year up to one year. The Foundation additionally offers tailored support such as invitations to events, language courses and long-term alumni funding.

€80,000 prize money; invitation to pursue selected research projects at a German host institution for 0.5–1 year (can be split); access to events, language courses and alumni support.

Nominations must be initiated by established researchers at a research institution in Germany or by Humboldt alumni abroad together with a researcher in Germany. Nominees should be internationally recognised research personalities whose main place of life and work has been outside Germany for at least five years and who do not hold a permanent position in Germany at the time of selection. Self-nominations and nominations of close relatives are not permitted.

Nominations are submitted online by eligible nominators via the Foundation's nomination portal. Complete nominations are assessed through external expert reviews and a twice-yearly selection committee decision.