Are you passionate about driving sustainability transformations worldwide? The RIFS Fellow Programme 2027 at the Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS), part of the GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences in Potsdam, Germany, offers an outstanding opportunity for individuals from all sectors to pursue innovative research in a collaborative, international environment. This fully funded fellowship supports creative thinkers eager to address pressing sustainability challenges alongside leading experts. Applications are now open for international candidates wishing to join the programme in Spring 2027.
About the RIFS Fellow Programme 2027
- Host Country: Germany
- Host Organization: Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS), GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences, Potsdam
- Duration: 6 to 12 months (extendable up to 24 months)
- Start Date: Approx. April 1, 2027
- Benefits: Stipend, housing assistance, integration support, and more
- Deadline: 21st June 2026 (23:59 CET)
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Financial Benefits
- Monthly stipend, amount determined by seniority and family circumstances
- Organizational and financial support for research activities
- Assistance with housing in Potsdam/Berlin (limited apartments available for fellows relocating from outside Germany/Europe)
- Support with resettlement, including school placements, health insurance, and visa/residence permits
- Access to a vibrant international research community and networking opportunities
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Program Theme
Sustainability in Tough Times – How to Move Forwards in Times of Backlash?
The 2027 fellowship particularly welcomes proposals addressing the complexities of sustainability transitions amid growing political and societal challenges. Key questions include:
- How do different forms of backlash interact across societies and scales?
- What role do justice concerns play in shaping support or resistance to accelerated transitions?
- How do polarization, emotions, and competing narratives influence perceptions of sustainability?
- What new or unconventional alliances for sustainability are needed?
- How can transdisciplinary research approaches mediate or mitigate backlash?
- How do changing relations between knowledge and political power affect sustainability transitions?
Eligibility Criteria
- Nationality: Open to applicants from all countries
- Age: No specific age limit
- Background: Applicants from science, public administration, private sector, civil society, media, and the arts are encouraged to apply
- Requirements:
- Project proposal aligned with RIFS’s work programme and at least two research groups
- Application documents in English (project proposal using official template, CV/achievements, optional annex)
- Strong motivation to contribute to sustainability research
- Willingness to engage in a collaborative, international environment
- Applications must be submitted online via the official portal (email submissions not accepted)
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How to Apply for the RIFS Fellow Programme 2027?
To apply, prepare your application documents in English, including a project proposal (using the official template), a CV (max. 3 pages), and an optional annex. Submit your application exclusively through the RIFS online application portal. It is highly recommended to contact RIFS researchers before applying to ensure your proposal aligns with their research priorities. For more details and to access the application form, visit the official website.
