Fully Funded Scholarships in Germany 2026

Max Planck Fellowship 2026 – Postdoctoral Research at AEI in Germany

The Max Planck Fellowship Program at the Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics (Albert Einstein Institute, AEI) offers a prestigious opportunity for outstanding foreign post-doctoral researchers to join one of the world’s leading centres in gravitational physics, located in Potsdam and Hannover, Germany. (Max Planck Institute for Astronomy)

Research Environment

At AEI, researchers investigate a wide range of topics: from theoretical and geometrical aspects of general relativity to quantum gravity, gravitational-wave astronomy, numerical relativity, and precision interferometry. The institute offers advanced compute clusters, high-performance facilities and collaboration across global projects. (Max Planck Institute for Astronomy)

 Fellowship Details & Benefits

• The fellowship is available for a duration of up to 2 years. (Max Planck Institute for Astronomy)
• Three stipend levels are offered depending on the applicant’s track-record: €2,500/month, €3,000/month, or €3,600/month. Travel costs and a move-in allowance (baggage subsidy) are also included. (Max Planck Institute for Astronomy)
• Applicants are encouraged from non-German nationalities (foreign post-doctoral scientists). The fellowship emphasises international talent. (Max Planck Institute for Astronomy)

 Eligibility & Application

• Applicants must hold a doctoral degree (PhD) and have a strong research track-record.
• They should outline past, current and future research interests, provide a CV, list of publications, and three referees. The application is to be submitted in PDF via the job portal of the AEI. (Max Planck Institute for Astronomy)
• The application deadline (for full consideration) is 25 November 2025 for a cohort expected to start in Fall 2026. (Max Planck Institute for Astronomy)

 Why This Fellowship Matters

• Joining the Max Planck Fellowship at AEI places you at the cutting edge of gravitational-wave astrophysics, cosmology and fundamental physics research.
• Being part of the Max Planck Society adds prestige and connects you with a broad network of scientists in one of Europe’s top research institutes.
• The financial support and infrastructure allow you to focus fully on research, free from many administrative or funding constraints..