What is the DAAD PRIME Fellowship 2025/26?

The DAAD PRIME Fellowship 2025/26 is a fully funded program for postdoctoral researchers to conduct 12 months of research abroad and 6 months of reintegration at a German institution, supported by DAAD and BMBF.

Who is eligible for the DAAD PRIME Fellowship?

Applicants must have a PhD, international research interest, and must not have stayed in their proposed host country for more than 12 months in the last 3 years. A reintegration phase in Germany is mandatory.

Is the PRIME Fellowship fully funded?

Yes, the fellowship includes a full-time salary, travel allowance, insurance, and family support throughout the 18-month research period.

How long is the duration of the fellowship?

The PRIME Fellowship lasts for 18 months: 12 months of research abroad and 6 months of integration in Germany.

How can I apply for the PRIME Fellowship 2025/26?

Applicants must submit a complete application through the DAAD portal, including a research proposal, CV, academic certificates, and confirmation from both host institutions.

DAAD PRIME Fellowship 2025/26 in Germany – Fully Funded for Postdocs

Looking to build your international research career? The PRIME Fellowship 2025/26, offered by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), provides an exceptional opportunity for postdoctoral researchers to gain global experience through a fully funded program. This initiative supports 18 months of academic research: 12 months abroad and 6 months at a German institution.

This fellowship is designed to foster international collaboration and help early-career scholars build strong academic networks while receiving full financial and institutional support.

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What is the DAAD PRIME Fellowship?

PRIME (Postdoctoral Researchers International Mobility Experience) is a prestigious fellowship program funded by Germany’s Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF). It aims to support highly qualified researchers in conducting part of their research project at a foreign university or research institution and complete the final part at a German host institution.

Rather than just a research grant, the fellowship provides a temporary job contract at a German university, ensuring both mobility and stability for postdocs.

DAAD PRIME Fellowship 2025/26 in Germany – Fully Funded for Postdocs

Fellowship Benefits

Full salary based on German public sector rates for researchers
12-month international research phase
6-month reintegration at a German institution
Travel allowance for the researcher (and eligible family members)
Insurance coverage for the duration of the program
Financial support for family members, if applicable

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Eligible Research Areas

Applicants from any academic discipline are encouraged to apply, including but not limited to:

Natural Sciences
Humanities
Engineering
Life and Health Sciences
Social Sciences
Environmental Studies

There are no field restrictions, making it accessible to researchers across all disciplines.

DAAD PRIME Fellowship 2025/26 in Germany – Fully Funded for Postdocs

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Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the PRIME Fellowship 2025/26, applicants must:

Hold a PhD or equivalent doctorate
Not have spent more than 12 months in the chosen host country within the past three years
Be prepared to collaborate with a German university during the reintegration phase
Present a structured research plan
Obtain support letters from both foreign and German host institutions

International applicants and German citizens alike are welcome to apply, provided the mobility rules are respected.

Important Dates (Tentative)

Application opens: July or August 2025
Deadline for submission: October 2025
Notification of results: Spring 2026
Fellowship begins: Mid-2026

Official dates will be confirmed on the DAAD PRIME portal.

DAAD PRIME Fellowship 2025/26 in Germany – Fully Funded for Postdocs

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How to Apply

Visit the official DAAD PRIME page.
Download the current Call for Applications.
Prepare necessary documents including:
- Detailed CV
- Research proposal with timelines and objectives
- Host institution confirmations (abroad and in Germany)
- Academic transcripts and certificates
Submit your application online via the DAAD portal before the deadline.

Why Consider the PRIME Fellowship?

The DAAD PRIME Fellowship is not only financially generous, but also strategically designed for researchers aiming to build long-term academic careers. Through this program, you’ll gain experience in two research environments, expand your academic network, and increase your potential for future professorships or advanced research positions in Europe and beyond.

Conclusion

The PRIME Fellowship 2025/26 in Germany is an ideal opportunity for emerging postdoctoral scholars who wish to broaden their academic perspectives and work internationally. With full financial backing, structured mobility, and a reintegration phase, this fellowship sets a solid foundation for global academic careers.

Stay alert for the official call and begin preparing your application materials early to increase your chances of selection.