CATS Fellowship 2026 in Germany: Fully Funded Research Opportunity in Berlin

The CATS Fellowship 2026 offers a prestigious fully funded research opportunity in Berlin, Germany, for scholars and professionals working on Turkey-related topics.

Hosted by the Centre for Applied Turkey Studies (CATS) at the German Institute for International and Security Affairs (SWP), this fellowship provides a platform to conduct impactful research in one of Europe’s leading policy think tanks.

About the Fellowship

The CATS Fellowship is designed for researchers, policy professionals, and practitioners focusing on Turkey’s political, social, and geopolitical dynamics.

The program emphasizes research that connects academic insights with real-world policy relevance, particularly in areas such as:

• Turkey–EU relations
• Foreign and security policy
• Migration and regional dynamics
• Socio-political developments within Turkey

Fellows collaborate with experts at CATS and SWP and contribute to policy-oriented publications and discussions.

Program Details

• Location: Berlin, Germany
• Duration: 6 to 12 months
• Start Date: From September 2026
• Type: Fully funded research fellowship

Fellows are expected to reside in Berlin during the program, except for approved research travel.

Financial Benefits

Selected fellows receive:

• Monthly stipend of €2,800 – €3,000
• Coverage of international travel costs
• Budget for research trips
• Additional support for fellows with children

This ensures full financial support for the duration of the fellowship.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be researchers, think tank members, or policy professionals
• Have strong expertise in Turkey-related research topics
• Demonstrate a solid research track record (publications preferred)
• Early-career researchers without a PhD may also apply if experienced

The fellowship is open to international applicants from all countries.

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit a single PDF including:

• Cover letter
• Research proposal (max. 5 pages)
• CV with publication list
• Academic transcripts or certificates

The proposal must clearly outline:

• Research objectives
• Academic and policy relevance
• Methodology and literature review

Application Deadline

• Deadline: Around 30 April 2026

Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

Selection Criteria

Applications are evaluated based on:

• Academic and professional merit
• Relevance to policy and research fields
• Innovation and feasibility of the project
• Public impact and outreach potential

Why This Fellowship Matters

The CATS Fellowship provides:

• Access to a leading European policy research institute
• Opportunities to influence real-world policy debates
• Collaboration with top researchers and policymakers
• A strong platform for publishing and networking

It is particularly valuable for those pursuing careers in policy research, international relations, and think tanks.

Final Insight

The CATS Fellowship 2026 stands out as a high-impact, fully funded research opportunity in Europe, especially for scholars working on Turkey and its global role.

With strong financial support, academic freedom, and policy engagement, it offers a powerful pathway for advancing both research and international careers.