The International Climate Protection Fellowship is a prestigious program offered by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation aimed at prospective leaders and postdocs who are passionate about climate protection or climate-relevant resource conservation. This fellowship provides an excellent opportunity for professionals from non-European developing and transition countries to engage in research projects in Germany that focus on key climate issues such as combating climate change, adapting to climate impacts, preserving ecosystems and biodiversity, and promoting sustainable use of natural resources like the seas and oceans.
Fellowship Overview
The fellowship is designed to support two categories of applicants:
- Prospective Leaders (practical experience): Individuals who are taking on or preparing for leadership roles and wish to deepen their expertise in climate protection and related fields. They will work on a one-year research project in Germany.
- Postdocs: Early-career researchers who have recently completed their PhD and wish to engage in long-term academic research (12-24 months). The fellowship supports individuals working on projects that address pressing climate-related challenges in their home countries.
Key Areas of Focus
The fellowship’s core areas of interest include:
- Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation: Strategies to reduce carbon emissions and build resilience against climate impacts.
- Biodiversity and Ecosystem Conservation: Efforts to preserve the natural world amid growing human pressures.
- Sustainable Resource Use: Promoting efficient consumption and sustainable urban development.
- Marine Conservation: Focused on preserving oceans, seas, and marine biodiversity.
- Natural Resource Management: Addressing sustainability issues tied to land, water, and energy.
These themes are critical to fostering a sustainable global future, especially in countries vulnerable to climate-related risks. The fellowship offers a platform for participants to contribute to the scientific and practical solutions necessary to tackle these global challenges.
Fellowship Benefits
The Alexander von Humboldt Foundation provides a comprehensive support package to ensure fellows can focus on their research and professional development while in Germany. Benefits include:
- Monthly Stipend: Depending on the applicant’s career stage, the monthly stipend ranges from €2,200 to €2,700 for prospective leaders, and €2,700 for postdocs.
- Additional Financial Support: For partners and children, travel expenses, private health insurance, and the possibility of a German language course.
- Introductory Event: A three-week orientation program where fellows can network with other climate protection fellows, visit research institutions, and experience German culture.
- Research Costs: Hosts receive an allowance for research-related expenses—€800 for natural sciences and engineering projects and €500 for projects in the humanities and social sciences.
Moreover, the fellowship fosters long-term connections by offering extensive alumni support, ensuring continued collaboration between fellows and their German hosts throughout their careers.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Engagement with Climate Issues: Applicants should be actively working in the fields of climate protection or climate-related resource conservation in their home countries.
- Nationality: Applicants must be citizens of a non-European developing or transition country.
- Leadership Experience: Prospective leaders should have at least 24 months of professional experience, or hold a Master’s degree with relevant professional experience.
- Postdoctoral Requirements: Postdocs must have completed their PhD no more than four years ago by the application deadline or plan to do so by 31 August of the selection year.
- Language Skills: Fluency in English and/or German is required.
Application Process
Applicants must first agree on a research project with a host institution in Germany, ensuring their project aligns with the fellowship’s goals. The application process involves submitting the following documents online:
- Application Form: Including personal information, motivation letter, and research proposal.
- Mentoring Agreement: A statement of support from the chosen host in Germany.
- Two Letters of Recommendation: From individuals familiar with the applicant’s academic or professional background.
Once submitted, the application will undergo a thorough review. Applicants will receive confirmation once all documents are received. Should any questions arise during the process, applicants are encouraged to contact the Humboldt Foundation for guidance.
Host Institutions and Collaboration
The fellowship partners with a wide range of institutions in Germany engaged in climate protection research, including universities, research institutes, NGOs, think tanks, and consulting agencies. These institutions offer a rich environment for learning and collaboration, with many having hosted Climate Protection Fellows in the past.
Impact and Long-Term Opportunities
The fellowship not only supports the academic growth of individuals but also nurtures international cooperation and knowledge exchange in the critical field of climate protection. Fellows are expected to bring back their enhanced expertise to their home countries, where they can influence climate policy, implement sustainable practices, and train the next generation of climate leaders.
In conclusion, the International Climate Protection Fellowship offers an unparalleled opportunity for individuals from developing and transition countries to advance their careers, collaborate internationally, and contribute meaningfully to addressing the global climate crisis.
How to Apply
For more details,visit Alexander von Humboldt Foundation webpage
The African Research (AR) Index is a comprehensive scholarly directory and database focused explicitly on journal publishers that publish and disseminate African research.
