International Climate Protection Fellowship 2026 — Fully Funded Research Opportunity in Germany

The International Climate Protection Fellowship 2026, offered by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, is a prestigious and fully funded research fellowship designed to support outstanding professionals from around the world who are working on innovative and impactful climate protection solutions. Hosted in Germany, this fellowship enables climate experts to pursue advanced research, develop sustainable approaches, and collaborate with German institutions and global partners.

This fellowship is ideal for environmental scientists, engineers, policy specialists, and practitioners committed to making measurable contributions to climate protection, adaptation, and mitigation.

What Is the International Climate Protection Fellowship?

The International Climate Protection Fellowship is a funding programme that enables qualified professionals from outside Germany to work on climate protection projects at universities, research institutes, or non-academic partner organisations in Germany. The programme emphasises interdisciplinary research, real-world impact, and international collaboration — supporting projects that aim to address pressing environmental challenges and strengthen global climate resilience.

This fellowship offers selected fellows the chance to deepen their expertise, expand professional networks, and engage with cutting-edge research environments.

Who Can Apply — Eligibility Criteria

The programme is open to individuals who:

• Are citizens of countries outside Germany
• Have completed a university degree (typically at least a master’s level)
• Have several years of professional experience in a field related to climate protection, sustainability, environmental policy, or related areas
• Can demonstrate leadership potential and tangible impact in climate protection work
• Are proficient in English; knowledge of German is advantageous but not mandatory

Both academic researchers and non-academic professionals — such as policymakers, NGO leaders, or innovators in climate technologies — are encouraged to apply if their work aligns with the fellowship’s goals.

Research Focus & Thematic Areas

Fellows are expected to develop research or practice-oriented projects that contribute to the field of climate protection. Common thematic areas include:

• Climate change mitigation strategies
• Adaptation and resilience planning
• Sustainable energy systems and decarbonisation
• Climate policy analysis and governance
• Urban resilience and sustainable cities
• Green technologies and circular economy solutions
• Ecosystem restoration and biodiversity conservation

Projects are designed to be interdisciplinary and relevant to both local and global climate priorities.

What the Fellowship Provides — Financial Support

The Humboldt International Climate Protection Fellowship offers comprehensive financial support during the fellowship period, including:

• Monthly living stipend for fellows
• Travel allowance to and from Germany
• Health insurance coverage
• Research allowance for project costs
• Family allowances if accompanying family members
• Opportunities to attend conferences and workshops

This funding structure enables fellows to concentrate fully on research and collaboration without financial stress.

Fellowship Duration & Structure

• Duration: Typically 6–24 months
• Fellows design individual research programmes in consultation with hosting German partners
• The fellowship period begins after nomination and approval
• Participants are expected to engage with German institutions through research activities, seminars, and collaborative events

The flexibility in duration allows fellows to tailor their work plan according to the scope and scale of their project.

Application Process & Requirements

Applicants must prepare:

• A detailed research proposal that outlines goals, methodology, and expected outcomes
• A curriculum vitae demonstrating academic and professional experience
• Letters of recommendation from relevant experts
• Institutional support letters from German host partners (if required)
• Evidence of professional achievements and climate impact

A strong application clearly demonstrates the candidate’s potential to contribute to climate protection scholarship or practice.

Why This Fellowship Matters

The International Climate Protection Fellowship supports:

• Global climate innovation — by enabling solution-oriented research across borders
• Knowledge exchange — through collaboration with German experts and institutions
• Leadership development — by empowering fellows to influence climate policy and practice
• Interdisciplinary impact — across science, policy, industry, and civil society

Many alumni go on to lead high-impact initiatives across governments, research organisations, NGOs, and the private sector.

The International Climate Protection Fellowship 2026 is a powerful opportunity for professionals dedicated to tackling climate change through research, innovation, and systems transformation. With its strong financial support, global network, and emphasis on real-world impact, this fellowship equips climate leaders with the resources, expertise, and collaboration needed to drive meaningful progress.