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Dear reader,
In a world that is becoming increasingly complex, looking at topics from different perspectives is crucial. It sparks innovative ideas and fresh approaches – one reason why interdisciplinary research is on the rise. By combining different methods, theories and entire fields, researchers can develop new questions, solutions and sometimes entirely new areas of inquiry. Interdisciplinarity also brings together scientists from around the globe, building on one another’s ideas and challenging each other’s thinking.
Germany offers a wide range of excellent institutions that focus on this approach – two of which are featured in this newsletter. With 2026 drawing near, we also share tools to help you prepare for a successful year ahead, plus a curious New Year’s Eve tradition in Germany.
PS We will be back in February with the next issue. In the meantime, take care and have a wonderful holiday season! | | | | |
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| Wherever you see this tag, the post connects to our monthly spotlight topic. | | | | | | |
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Apply by: 13 January 2026
(Future) PhDs: computer science, mathematics, engineering, natural sciences or other data science/machine learning/AI-related disciplines | | | | |
Zuse School relAI PhD program | | | | |
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Apply by: 15 January 2026 (round 2; round 1 without deadline)
(Future) Graduates, PhDs, Postdocs & Advanced researchers: all disciplines; primarily Catholic researchers from Central, Eastern und South-Eastern Europe, the Caucasus and Central Asia | | | | |
KAAD funding in Eastern Europe | | | | |
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Apply by: 2 February 2026
(Future) Postdocs: molecular biology with a focus on interdisciplinary research | | | | |
EIPOD-LinC Fellowship Programme | | | | |
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Apply by: 11 February 2026
(Future) Graduates, PhDs & Postdocs: mathematics and computer science | | | | |
13th Heidelberg Laureate Forum | | | | |
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Apply by: 15 February 2026
(Future) Students & PhDs: (natural) sciences & disciplines related to amino acid research | | | | |
Evonik Stiftung Scholarship & Werner Schwarze Fellowship for the Promotion of Amino Acid Research | | | | |
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Apply by: 1 March 2026
(Future) Postdocs & Advanced researchers: all disciplines | | | | |
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Apply by: various deadlines (depending on applicant’s country of origin)
(Future) Postdocs & Advanced researchers: all disciplines | | | | |
Bilateral Exchange of Academics (to Germany) | | | | |
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Apply by: any time
(Future) Postdocs: all disciplines | | | | |
Walter Benjamin Programme | | | | |
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A spotlight on: interdisciplinary research | | | | |
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Join international research groups at the Center for Interdisciplinary Research (ZiF)
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The Center for Interdisciplinary Research (ZiF) at Bielefeld University in Germany is a true pioneer in its field. Founded in 1968, ZiF focuses on research groups working together on interdisciplinary topics. The independent centre is open to scholars from all countries and disciplines – making it a key destination for international researchers interested in collaborative, cross-disciplinary projects.
This website offers information about ZiF’s work, events and open calls. The funding format “Research in Groups” supports researchers with a PhD to conduct a research project with a selected group of colleagues; international teams are especially encouraged to apply. Visit their website to explore more funding options and the ZiF’s postdoc network! Be sure to also check out the centre’s blog “Hypotheses”, which features practical toolkits for strengthening your interdisciplinary research skills. | | | |
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Groundbreaking research from Germany | | | | |
Germany is home to some of the world’s leading research institutions. We highlight contributions from a few of them, giving you a closer look at pioneering projects and discoveries. Find more on our website!
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| 🔗 Read more articles on our website. | | | |
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A closer look: work in Germany | | | | |
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| As the world becomes more digitalised, researchers are increasingly examining its societal impact – a key focus at the interdisciplinary Weizenbaum Institute in Berlin. The independent institution in the field of digitalisation welcomes scholars from all countries and disciplines. The institute’s website provides information about its current research, interdisciplinarity in science and upcoming events. If you’re interested in joining a research group at the Weizenbaum Institute, be sure to explore their fellowship programme – applicants are encouraged to contact relevant research groups now! | | | | | | |
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| With the new year fast approaching, it’s time to reflect on your strengths and how to use them to shape your research career in 2026. The German Postdoc Network (GPN) offers an overview of useful career tools designed to support postdocs in planning their next steps – from self-assessment and skill development to career path exploration and action planning. Check out their resources to define your priorities and goals for the upcoming year! | | | | | | |
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The bigger picture: life in Germany | | | | |
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| If you have never heard of the TV sketch “Dinner for One”, you will definitely learn about it once you’ve come to Germany for your research stay. The British short film from the 1960s is a New Year’s Eve classic in Germany and is watched by millions every year – while the rest of the world remains almost completely unaware of it. You want to know why a sketch about Miss Sophie and her butler James has become “the same procedure as every year” for ringing in the new year in Germany? Discover the full story and watch the video on this website! | | | | | | |
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| Interdisciplinarity is all about working together with other excellent researchers. If you are looking to conduct cutting-edge research with a highly qualified team, the DFG Research Units (Forschungsgruppen) might be the right fit for you. They provide funding for groups working closely together on a defined research question. While applicants must already be based at a German research institution, the DFG explicitly encourages international collaboration. Visit the website to learn more about the programme and how to apply. | | | | | | |
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20. & 21.01.
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JAN 2026 · ONLINE | | | | |
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| Get updates about research career options and funding opportunities in Germany, the latest research news, interesting research projects and upcoming events. | | | |
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This newsletter has been prepared by:
Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst e.V. (DAAD)
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Person responsible according to
§ 18 Abs. 2 MStV: Dr. Kai Sicks
Kennedyallee 50, 53175 Bonn | | | | |
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Editors:
Dr. Berenike Schröder (responsible), DAAD e.V.
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und Kommunikation | | | | |
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We are not liable for the content of any website run by third parties.This remains solely the responsibility of the third parties. | | | | |
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