Unlock Your Research Potential: IEG Fellowships for Doctoral Students

 

Unlock Your Research Potential: IEG Fellowships for Doctoral Students

Are you a PhD student in history, theology, or a related historical discipline looking for a prestigious fellowship to advance your research? The Leibniz Institute of European History (IEG) in Mainz, Germany, invites ambitious doctoral candidates to apply for its fully funded fellowship programme. With a monthly stipend of €1,350, access to world-class academic resources, and a vibrant scholarly community, the IEG Fellowship provides the ideal environment to refine your doctoral project and engage with leading experts in European history.

Why Choose the IEG Fellowship?

1. Financial Support for Your Research

Monthly stipend of €1,350 to cover living expenses in Mainz.

Family and child allowances for fellows accompanied by partners or children.

No tuition fees—the IEG is a research institution, not a university, so you can focus entirely on your dissertation.

2. A Prestigious Academic Network

Work alongside renowned scholars and a dynamic international community of researchers.

Participate in workshops, seminars, and interdisciplinary discussions to refine your methodology and expand your academic horizons.

Access the IEG’s extensive library and archival resources to support your research.

3. Flexibility and Structured Support

Fellowships last between 6 and 12 months, allowing you to tailor your stay to your research needs.

While you remain enrolled at your home university, the IEG provides an intellectually stimulating environment free from teaching obligations.

Who Can Apply?

The IEG Fellowships for Doctoral Students are open to:

PhD candidates from Germany and worldwide with a Master’s degree in history, theology, or a related historical discipline.

Applicants who have been working on their doctorate for no more than three years (exceptions considered with justification).

Researchers with proficiency in English (German language skills are not required).

Key Application Deadlines

February 15 and August 15 (annual deadlines).

The next call for applications opens in June 2025, with a deadline of August 15, 2025, for fellowships starting in March 2026 or later.

How to Apply

Step 1: Prepare Your Application Documents

Your application must include (in a single PDF file):

Completed IEG application form (download from the IEG website).

Curriculum vitae (without photographs) and list of publications (if applicable).

PhD thesis outline (max. 15,000 characters, excluding footnotes and spaces).

Thesis structure and a detailed work plan for your stay at the IEG.

University transcripts and proof of language proficiency.

Step 2: Secure Two Academic References

Primary advisor’s reference: Must be emailed directly to fellowship@ieg-mainz.de by the deadline.

Second external referee’s letter: Should come from a different university or discipline and also be sent directly to the IEG.

Both references should evaluate:

Your academic qualifications.

The originality, methodology, and feasibility of your PhD project.

The current state of research in your field.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Email your complete application (as a single PDF) to:

Leibniz Institute of European History

Attn: Prof. Dr. Nicole Reinhardt | Prof. Dr. Johannes Paulmann

Subject: Fellowship Application

Email: application@ieg-mainz.de

Visit the Official Webpage of the IEG Fellowships

Language: Applications can be in English or German (choose the one you are most proficient in).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply if I have already been working on my PhD for more than three years?

Yes, in exceptional cases, the IEG may consider applicants beyond the three-year limit if justified in the application.

Is there additional funding for families?

Yes! If your partner accompanies you and earns less than €450/month, you may qualify for a family allowance. Fellows with children can also apply for a child allowance.

Can I work or receive other funding while on the fellowship?

No, the IEG Fellowship is intended to fully support your research, so additional employment or funding is not permitted.

Does the IEG award PhD degrees?

No, the IEG is a research institute, not a university. You will remain enrolled at your home institution and complete your dissertation under your supervisor’s guidance.

Take the Next Step in Your Academic Career

The IEG Fellowship is more than just funding—it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in a thriving academic community, refine your research, and make lasting professional connections.

Don’t miss your chance!

Next application deadline: August 15, 2025

Fellowships begin March 2026 or later

Questions? Contact fellowship@ieg-mainz.de for more details.

The Leibniz Institute of European History (IEG) is a leading research institution dedicated to the study of European history in a global context. Funded by the German federal and state governments, the IEG supports cutting-edge research through fellowships, publications, and collaborative projects.

In case of discrepancies, the German version of this announcement takes precedence.