Are you an ambitious early to mid-career scholar in the humanities, cultural studies, or social sciences looking for six months of uninterrupted research freedom in an intellectually vibrant environment? Then here’s your golden ticket! The Kulturwissenschaftliches Institut (KWI) in Essen, Germany, is now accepting applications for its 12th cohort of KWI International Fellowships and the Thyssen@KWI Fellowship for the upcoming term from April 1, 2026 to September 30, 2026.
What Are These Fellowships About?
Both fellowships provide a six (06) month residency at the renowned KWI research institute, giving selected scholars the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in their academic projects without teaching or administrative duties. During the fellowship, you’ll benefit from access to world-class resources, supportive research infrastructure, and a community of distinguished thinkers in your field.
What You’ll Get as a Fellow?
- Access to modern office infrastructure
- Technical and administrative support
- Library and research services
- Event and research management assistance
- Immersion in a vibrant academic community in Essen, at the heart of the Ruhr region.
Fellowship Options & Who Can Apply
1# KWI International Fellowship
- Open to international researchers with a PhD and up to six years of postdoctoral experience.
- German nationals may apply only if currently affiliated with an international research institution.
- Project proposals must align with KWI’s research agenda.
- Fields: Humanities, Cultural Studies, Social Sciences.
2# Thyssen@KWI Fellowship
- Sponsored by the Fritz Thyssen Foundation.
- Open to researchers with a PhD and several years of postdoctoral experience.
- International scholars and German nationals with strong international networks are welcome.
- Project proposals must address KWI’s research themes.
Apply: https://www.kulturwissenschaften.de/cfa-kwi-fellowships-2026/
The last date to apply for the KWI International Fellowships and Thyssen@KWI Fellowship 2026 is August 29, 2025.