Overview The International Climate Protection Fellowship is a prestigious research and professional development programme offered by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation. It supports prospective leaders and postdoctoral researchers from non-European developing and transition countries who are actively engaged in climate protection or climate-relevant resource conservation. The fellowship enables participants to undertake a funded research or practice-oriented project in Germany for a period of 12 to 24 months, contributing to global climate solutions while strengthening long-term international cooperation. Funded through the International Climate Initiative (IKI), the programme reflects Germany’s commitment to climate action, biodiversity protection, and sustainable development. It is jointly supported by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, in cooperation with the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection, and the Federal Foreign Office. The application deadline for the 2026 intake is 10 February 2026. Fellowship Objectives and Focus Areas The fellowship is designed to support individuals who will act as future decision-makers and multipliers in their home countries. Projects must align with climate and sustainability priorities and demonstrate relevance to real-world challenges. Eligible thematic areas include: Climate change mitigation and adaptation Ecosystem and biodiversity conservation Sustainable use of oceans and marine resources Natural resource management Resource-efficient consumption and production Sustainable urban development The programme emphasises knowledge exchange between fellows and host institutions in Germany, with a strong focus on the applicability of research outcomes in the fellows’ countries of origin. Fellowship Categories The programme supports two distinct applicant groups: Prospective leaders working practically Undertake a one-year project in Germany Focus on applied research, policy, or practice-oriented climate solutions Postdoctoral researchers Undertake 12–24 months of academic research Focus on long-term, high-quality research related to climate protection or resource conservation Each year, up to: 15 fellowships are awarded to prospective leaders 5 fellowships are awarded to postdoctoral researchers Financial Support and Benefits The fellowship offers comprehensive financial and professional support to enable fellows to fully focus on their projects. Fellowship benefits include: Monthly stipend: €2,500, €2,800, or €3,000 for prospective leaders, depending on qualifications and experience €3,000 for postdoctoral researchers Additional allowances for: Accompanying partners and children Travel expenses Full private health insurance German language courses A three-week introductory programme in Germany, including: Networking with other fellows Visits to research institutions and businesses Cultural activities Long-term alumni support, enabling sustained collaboration with German partners throughout the fellow’s career Host institutions also receive a monthly research allowance: €800 for projects in natural or engineering sciences €500 for projects in humanities or social sciences Eligibility Requirements Applicants must meet the following general criteria: Citizenship of a non-European developing or transition country Predominant residence and professional activity in their country of origin Active engagement in climate protection or climate-relevant resource conservation Demonstrated leadership potential or leadership experience Very good knowledge of English and/or German Additional criteria apply depending on the fellowship category: Prospective leaders First academic degree completed within the last 12 years At least: 24 months of relevant professional experience after the first degree, or A Master’s degree plus 12 months of relevant professional experience Postdoctoral researchers Doctorate awarded no more than four years before the application deadline, or to be completed by 31 August of the selection year Doctoral research clearly related to climate protection or resource conservation Publications in internationally peer-reviewed journals or publishing houses Application Process Applications are submitted online via the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation website. Prior to applying, candidates must independently identify and agree on a project with a suitable host institution in Germany. Required application documents include: Completed application form with: Letter of motivation Research project description and communication strategy Two letters of recommendation (no older than 12 months) Host’s statement and signed mentoring agreement Applications are only considered complete once all recommendation letters and host documents have been submitted. Selection Procedure and Timeline Applications are reviewed by an independent Selection Committee composed of experts from academia and industry. Selection criteria include: Academic and professional achievements Leadership skills in climate-related fields Quality, originality, feasibility, and relevance of the proposed project Commitment to equity, accessibility, and equal opportunity Shortlisted candidates are invited to a virtual selection meeting in September, with final decisions typically communicated by the end of June. Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion The Alexander von Humboldt Foundation strongly encourages applications from women and individuals from underrepresented groups. Selection is based on excellence and potential, regardless of ethnic background, gender identity, age, disability, religion, or sexual orientation. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the fellowship organization. For any inquiries, please contact the responsible organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.