Deadline: 15 June 2025
The German Federal Environmental Foundation (DBU) is now accepting applications for its highly esteemed PhD Scholarship Programme for the 2025 fall intake. This program supports promising early-career researchers dedicated to innovative solutions in environmental protection and nature conservation.
Scholarship Benefits
The DBU PhD Scholarship provides a blend of financial support and professional development opportunities, fostering groundbreaking research in environmental sustainability.
Financial Support:
- Monthly Stipend: €1,600.
- Material Allowance: €210 monthly, with potential additional funding in exceptional circumstances.
- Child Supplement: Additional financial assistance for scholars with children.
Professional Development:
- Personalized guidance from DBU consultants.
- Opportunities to present findings and collaborate at interdisciplinary DBU seminars.
- Participation in flagship events like the Summer Academy and Environmental Award Ceremony.
- Access to the Stipnet platform for networking with alumni.
- Encouragement for temporary research stays abroad.
Duration:
- Funding is provided for up to 36 months (3 years).
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, applicants must:
- Hold an above-average degree (minimum grade: “good” or “very good”; law graduates require at least “fully satisfactory”).
- Pursue a doctoral project primarily at a German institution, with the project not having commenced or exceeding a year post-graduation.
- Propose research that addresses critical environmental issues, focusing on sustainable solutions with relevance to Germany or global challenges affecting Germany.
- Be proficient in German, as all application documents must be in German.
- Have a research topic aligned with DBU’s goals in areas like natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, humanities, economics, or law.
Target Audience
The program is tailored for outstanding junior researchers conducting interdisciplinary doctoral research addressing pressing environmental challenges.
Number of Scholarships
Up to 50 scholarships are awarded annually.
Application Process
- Applications must be submitted online at DBU Doctoral Scholarships.
- Include all required documents, written in German.
- Only one application per scientific supervisor or working group is allowed per application round.
Application Deadline
The deadline for the DBU PhD Scholarship 2025 Fall Intake is 15 June 2025.
