Alexander von Humboldt Professorship

Funded by

Alexander von Humboldt Foundation
 

In brief

Winners of this most highly-endowed research award in Germany are honoured for their outstanding research record and can carry out long-term and groundbreaking research at a university or research institute in Germany.
 

Who can apply?

A nomination can only be made in favour of senior researchers with exceptional qualifications who

• live and work outside Germany
• are eligible to be appointed to full professorships in Germany
• are internationally recognised as leaders in their research field
• can also be expected to complete further cutting-edge research in the future

Further requirements

• The Alexander von Humboldt Professorship is expected to contribute to the internationalisation of forwardlooking research areas in Germany. In addition, it should achieve synergy effects in the development and structure of the host institution.
• The host institution must guarantee that the necessary infrastructure is available to carry out the award winner’s research.
• Nominating institutions must explain how they intend to continue the award winner’s long-term affiliation to their institution beyond the funding period.

Type and extent of funding

Funding of 5 million euros for researchers in experimental disciplines, 3.5 million euros for researchers in theoretical disciplines. Award winners may take up to 180,000 euros per year from the award funds as their personal income.
 

Duration

5 years.
 

Application

Two selection rounds per year; deadlines: 15 April and 15 September. It is not possible for researchers to apply themselves; nominations can only be made by German universities or non-university research institutions jointly with German universities.