Stanton Nuclear Security Fellows Program 2027–2028 in Germany (Funded Research Fellowship)

The Stanton Nuclear Security Fellows Program 2027–2028 at Hertie School offers an outstanding opportunity for qualified researchers and junior faculty members to conduct advanced research in nuclear security in Berlin, Germany. Funded by the Stanton Foundation, the programme aims to develop the next generation of thought leaders who can contribute to nuclear security policy, international relations, and global security research.

Selected fellows will undertake a year-long period of independent research at the Centre for International Security at Hertie School, beginning in September 2027. The fellowship encourages interdisciplinary research that advances policy-relevant understanding of nuclear weapons, nuclear proliferation, deterrence, and other critical security challenges.

Fellowship Benefits

The Stanton Nuclear Security Fellows Program provides financial support and an academic research environment for selected scholars.

Key benefits include:

• Postdoctoral stipend: €87,575 for postdoctoral researchers.
• Junior faculty stipend: €118,790 for eligible junior faculty members.
• Research opportunities: One year of independent research at Hertie School’s Centre for International Security.
• Academic networking: Opportunities to engage with faculty members and experts in nuclear security and international affairs.
• Policy impact: Support for research that can contribute to policy debates and improve understanding of nuclear security challenges.
• International exposure: An opportunity to conduct research in Berlin, Germany, within an international academic community.

The programme awards up to two fellowships each year. Stipends are paid in euros, with the applicable amount depending on the fellow’s appointment category.

Research Areas

The fellowship welcomes interdisciplinary research proposals related to nuclear security and its policy implications. Relevant areas include:

• Nuclear weapons and nuclear deterrence.
• Nuclear proliferation and non-proliferation.
• Nuclear terrorism and international security.
• Nuclear policy and strategic studies.
• International relations and defence policy.
• Nuclear technology, physics, and engineering.
• Nuclear force posture and global security governance.

Applicants should develop a clear research proposal that demonstrates academic quality and relevance to contemporary nuclear security challenges.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the Stanton Nuclear Security Fellows Program 2027–2028, candidates must generally meet the following requirements:

• Be a postdoctoral researcher or a tenure-track junior faculty member.
• Have relevant academic or professional experience in nuclear policy, security, international relations, engineering, physics, law, or related disciplines.
• Demonstrate the ability to conduct independent research.
• Submit a strong research proposal relevant to nuclear security.

Junior faculty members at law schools and applicants whose terminal degree is in law are also eligible. Applicants should review the official announcement for the complete eligibility conditions.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare the following documents:

• Current curriculum vitae (CV).
• Two letters of recommendation.
• Personal statement.
• Research project proposal.
• Academic transcripts, if requested by the selection committee.

Application Deadline

The application deadline for the Stanton Nuclear Security Fellows Program 2027–2028 is 30 November 2026. Selected fellows are expected to begin their research in September 2027.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should visit the official Hertie School fellowship webpage and submit their applications through the online application portal. Applications submitted through other methods will not be accepted.