The Research Institute for Sustainability has announced its annual call for applications for the 2027 Fellow Programme, a globally oriented research initiative focused on advancing sustainability transformations through interdisciplinary, transdisciplinary, and co-creative approaches. Based in Potsdam, Germany, the institute is part of the GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences and works with partners across academia, government, business, civil society, and the arts to develop solutions for complex sustainability challenges. The application deadline is 21 June 2026 at 23:59 CET, with successful fellows expected to begin their appointments in Spring 2027. Global Fellowship Designed to Advance Sustainability Transitions The RIFS Fellow Programme is one of the institute’s flagship initiatives, bringing together approximately ten fellows each year from around the world. Selected fellows will work closely with RIFS research groups and existing projects to explore innovative approaches to sustainability transitions, with a strong emphasis on collaboration across disciplines and sectors. The programme supports individuals from: Academic research Public administration Private sector organizations Civil society Media and journalism Arts and creative industries Fellows are encouraged to develop independent research ideas that align with RIFS’s broader mission of studying and enabling societal transformation toward sustainability. 2027 Theme Focuses on Sustainability in Challenging Political Contexts The 2027 call for applications highlights a central theme: “Sustainability in Tough Times – How to Move Forwards in Times of Backlash?” The institute notes that sustainability transitions are increasingly shaped by political tension, uneven progress, and public resistance. The fellowship specifically invites proposals that examine how environmental and societal transformations can continue in the face of growing polarization and contestation. Key thematic questions include: How do sustainability backlash dynamics interact across local, national, and global scales? How do justice concerns influence support for or resistance to climate and sustainability transitions? What role do polarization, emotions, and narratives play in shaping sustainability debates? Which new alliances across sectors could strengthen sustainability action? How can transdisciplinary research help reduce or mediate backlash? What do challenges to expert authority reveal about the relationship between knowledge and political power? RIFS encourages applicants to design projects that address at least two of its internal research groups, ensuring strong institutional integration. Fellowship Structure and Support Package Fellowships are typically awarded for 6 to 12 months, with the possibility of extension up to 24 months depending on funding availability and project scope. Selected fellows will receive: A stipend determined by seniority and personal circumstances Access to office and research infrastructure in Potsdam Optional housing support, including institute-managed apartments Assistance with relocation, visas, schooling, and health insurance Opportunities to build national and international research networks Integration into a collaborative, interdisciplinary community The institute also provides administrative and financial support for fellowship-related activities, including workshops, events, and collaborative projects. Application Requirements and Submission Process Applicants must submit their materials in English via the official application portal. The institute does not accept submissions by email. Required documents include: Core Application Materials Project proposal (mandatory, using official RIFS template) Curriculum vitae and achievements (maximum 3 pages) Optional Materials Publications list Artistic portfolio Additional supporting documentation Only the project proposal will be forwarded to external reviewers, making it the central component of the application. Multi-Stage Selection Process The selection process for the RIFS fellowship involves three stages: Internal Review: Initial screening based on relevance, motivation, and alignment with institute priorities External Jury Review: Evaluation of shortlisted project proposals by external experts Interviews: Final candidates may be invited for interviews if additional clarification is required Final decisions are expected in November or early December 2026, following interviews scheduled for November 2026. Strong Emphasis on Diversity and Global Inclusion RIFS emphasized that diversity and equal opportunity are core principles of its recruitment strategy. The institute explicitly encourages applications regardless of: Nationality or ethnic background Gender identity or sexual orientation Religion or belief system Age or physical ability Social or professional background Applicants with recognized disabilities may receive preferential consideration under German legal provisions when qualifications are equal. The institute also highlights its commitment to data protection and GDPR-compliant handling of applicant information throughout the selection process. Webinars and Pre-Application Guidance To support prospective applicants, RIFS will host informational webinars on: 1 June 2026 Applicants are encouraged to review the institute’s FAQ resources before applying and to contact researchers to ensure alignment between proposed projects and ongoing institutional work. Advancing Sustainability Research Through Global Collaboration The fellowship reflects RIFS’s broader mission of fostering transformative sustainability research that connects science with real-world implementation. By bringing together global experts and practitioners, the programme aims to explore new models of cooperation, address political and social barriers to sustainability, and strengthen knowledge systems that support long-term environmental resilience. The institute stated that successful fellows will contribute not only academic insights but also practical pathways for addressing urgent global sustainability challenges. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. 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