The Heilbronn AI Fellowship, funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), is now accepting applications from outstanding international PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers working in Artificial Intelligence and related disciplines. The fellowship offers a unique opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research in Germany’s rapidly expanding AI innovation ecosystem while collaborating with leading universities, research institutes, and industry partners located on the Bildungscampus Heilbronn. Designed to attract exceptional global research talent, the programme supports research stays of 1 to 12 months and provides generous financial support, including a monthly stipend of €2,800, insurance coverage, and international travel assistance. The fellowship also encourages innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology transfer, making it an excellent opportunity for researchers seeking both academic excellence and real-world impact. About the Heilbronn AI Fellowship The Heilbronn AI Fellowship is a prestigious research programme that strengthens international collaboration in Artificial Intelligence by bringing talented researchers to Heilbronn, one of Germany’s emerging centres for AI research and digital innovation. Rather than focusing solely on academic research, the fellowship promotes interdisciplinary collaboration between universities, research institutes, startups, and industry. Fellows become part of a vibrant ecosystem where scientific discoveries can be translated into practical applications, innovative technologies, and entrepreneurial ventures. The programme aims to position Heilbronn as a leading European destination for AI research while fostering long-term international partnerships between German institutions and researchers worldwide. Fellowship Overview CategoryDetailsOrganisationGerman Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)ProgrammeHeilbronn AI FellowshipHost CountryGermanyLocationBildungscampus HeilbronnEligible ApplicantsInternational PhD Candidates & Postdoctoral ResearchersDuration1–12 MonthsMonthly Stipend€2,800Funding TypeResearch Fellowship Who Can Apply? The fellowship is open to international PhD candidates in the final year before their dissertation defence and postdoctoral researchers who completed their doctorate within the last five years. Applicants should demonstrate: A strong academic background in Artificial Intelligence or a closely related field. Affiliation with a university or recognised research institution. An intention to undertake a research project at an eligible host institution on the Bildungscampus Heilbronn. Excellent academic achievements and strong research potential. Researchers from diverse AI disciplines, including machine learning, robotics, data science, computational intelligence, human-centred AI, and related fields, are encouraged to apply. Eligible Host Institutions Successful fellows may conduct their research at one of several internationally recognised institutions located on the Bildungscampus Heilbronn. Eligible host institutions include: DHBW Center for Advanced Studies DHBW Heilbronn Ferdinand-Steinbeis-Institute Fraunhofer HNFIZ Heilbronn University of Applied Sciences (HHN) Technical University of Munich (TUM) Campus Heilbronn These institutions provide access to advanced laboratories, interdisciplinary research collaborations, digital infrastructure, and strong connections with industry and innovation partners. Financial Benefits The Heilbronn AI Fellowship offers comprehensive financial support to enable researchers to focus entirely on their projects. Fellowship benefits include: €2,800 monthly fellowship stipend Health insurance support Accident insurance Personal liability insurance Lump-sum contribution toward international travel costs For research stays exceeding six months, additional family benefits may be available, subject to eligibility and individual assessment. Researchers with disabilities or chronic illnesses may also apply for additional financial support to cover disability-related expenses during the fellowship period. Research Opportunities The programme supports research projects across Artificial Intelligence and related technological fields while encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration and practical innovation. Researchers are expected to contribute to projects that demonstrate scientific excellence and potential societal or industrial impact. The fellowship particularly values projects involving: Artificial Intelligence Machine Learning Data Science Intelligent Systems Robotics Digital Innovation Human-Centred AI AI Applications across Industry and Society Beyond academic research, fellows are encouraged to engage with startup ecosystems, innovation hubs, and technology transfer initiatives throughout Heilbronn. Selection Criteria Applications are evaluated through a single-stage competitive selection process conducted by independent experts appointed by DAAD. Assessment focuses on three principal areas. Academic Excellence Reviewers consider: Academic performance Grade progression Doctoral achievements Publications Conference presentations Research outputs Quality of the Research Proposal The proposed project should demonstrate: Originality Scientific relevance Clear objectives Feasible methodology Realistic research timeline Strong alignment with the selected host institution Suitability for the Fellowship The evaluation also examines how well the applicant’s expertise, career goals, and research interests align with the objectives of the Heilbronn AI Fellowship and its emphasis on international collaboration, innovation, and long-term research partnerships. How to Apply Applications must be submitted online through the DAAD Portal. Applicants should prepare their proposal jointly with their chosen host institution before submission. All required documents must be uploaded before the application deadline, although applicants may explain the temporary absence of specific documents when necessary. Important application rules include: Only one application may be submitted at a time. Applications must be completed through the DAAD online portal. Joint preparation with the host institution is required. Incomplete applications without appropriate explanations may not be considered. Why Apply? The Heilbronn AI Fellowship provides much more than financial support—it offers access to one of Germany’s most dynamic AI ecosystems. Fellows benefit from world-class research facilities, collaboration with leading academic and industrial partners, opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship, and an international environment designed to accelerate impactful AI research. For early-career researchers seeking to strengthen their academic profile while contributing to cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence research in Europe, the Heilbronn AI Fellowship represents an outstanding opportunity to build lasting international collaborations and advance scientific excellence. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) does not take ownership or credit for the opportunities shared on this platform. All opportunities are sourced from official announcements and external sources for informational purposes only. Applicants are encouraged to verify all details, deadlines, and eligibility requirements from the official source before applying. Opportunities may be updated or changed by the providing organisations.