The Feodor Lynen Research Fellowships offer an outstanding opportunity for researchers in Germany to advance their academic careers through international research experience. Funded by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, the fellowship supports highly qualified postdoctoral and experienced researchers who wish to conduct research at leading institutions around the world.
The program promotes global academic collaboration and provides researchers with access to the renowned Humboldt Network, which includes thousands of scholars and research institutions worldwide.
With no fixed application deadline, applicants can submit proposals throughout the year and plan their research stays according to their academic objectives and host institution schedules.
Scholarship Summary.
- Host Country: Worldwide
- Funded By: Alexander von Humboldt Foundation
- Fellowship Name: Feodor Lynen Research Fellowship
- Degree Level: Postdoctoral and Experienced Researchers
- Eligible Subjects: All Academic Disciplines
Fellowship Duration:
- Postdoctoral Researchers: 6–24 months
- Experienced Researchers: 6–18 months
Application Deadline: Open Throughout the Year
The fellowship is available for:
- Postdoctoral Researchers
- Experienced Researchers
- Early-Career Academics
- Independent Researchers
Applications are accepted from all academic disciplines, including:
- Engineering
- Natural Sciences
- Medicine
- Law
- Social Sciences
- Humanities
- Economics
- Interdisciplinary Research Fields
Successful applicants will receive a comprehensive funding package that may include:
- Monthly fellowship stipend based on destination country and individual circumstances
- Travel expense reimbursement
- Family allowances for accompanying spouses and children
- Childcare support
- Flexible fellowship starts dates
- Access to the Humboldt Network
- Long-term alumni support
- Return fellowships and reintegration support in Germany
- Opportunities for international collaboration and career development
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
For Postdoctoral Researchers
- Must have completed a doctoral degree within the last four years, or
- Be close to completing the doctorate within six months of application
- Demonstrate strong academic achievements and publication records
For Experienced Researchers.
- Must have completed a doctorate within the last twelve years
- Demonstrate an independent research profile
- Have substantial publications in internationally recognized academic journals
General Requirements.
- Must be based in Germany
- Must secure a host researcher connected to the Humboldt Network
- Must demonstrate excellent academic qualifications
- Must submit all required application materials
Application Procedure.
Required Documents
Applicants are generally required to submit:
- Two-page Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Research proposal or research outline (maximum five pages)
- Complete publication list
- Selected key publications
- Doctoral degree certificate or proof of completion
- Host researcher statement
- Two expert recommendation letters
Application Process.
To apply for the Feodor Lynen Research Fellowship, follow these steps:
- Identify a suitable international host researcher within the Humboldt Network.
- Develop a detailed research proposal.
- Gather all required supporting documents.
- Obtain expert reviews and host confirmation.
- Complete the online application through the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation portal.
- Submit the application for evaluation.
Selection Process.
The fellowship selection committee meets three times each year to review applications. Most applications are processed within four to seven months after submission.
Successful candidates can normally begin their fellowship between two and twelve months after receiving approval.
Why Apply for the Feodor Lynen Research Fellowship?
The Feodor Lynen Research Fellowship is one of Germany’s most respected international mobility programs.
Beyond financial support, it provides researchers with access to a prestigious global academic network, opportunities for international collaboration, and long-term career development benefits.
For researchers seeking to expand their international profile, strengthen research partnerships, and gain experience at leading institutions worldwide, this fellowship represents an excellent opportunity to advance their academic careers.

























