Academic Accelerator Fellowships in Germany are available for second- or third-year PhD researchers from under-represented regions and communities in academia for the year 2026.
When is the Application Deadline:
28 February 2026 (application period: 20 January – 28 February 2026).
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Tell Me About The Fellowship:
The Academic Accelerator Fellowship 2026, hosted by the Cluster of Excellence “Contestations of the Liberal Script (SCRIPTS)” at Freie Universität Berlin, offers up to 3 fully funded positions for doctoral researchers from underrepresented regions and communities.
This 12-month fellowship integrates selected fellows into the Berlin Graduate School for Global and Transregional Studies (BGTS), providing structured mentorship, tailored training, and professional development opportunities. It is designed to accelerate academic growth, expand networks, and position PhD research within global debates on liberalism and societal contestations.
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Which Fields are Eligible?
- PhD research projects aligned with the SCRIPTS research agenda (global contestations of liberal models of society, resilience, and consequences).
- Interdisciplinary fields connected to political science, sociology, history, law, economics, and global studies.
Type:
PhD Fellowship (Mobility + Research Training).
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be doctoral researchers from underrepresented regions/communities.
- Be in the second or third year of PhD studies.
- Be enrolled in a PhD program outside Germany for the full fellowship duration.
- Have PhD research relevant to the SCRIPTS agenda.
- Be available for a 12-month fellowship starting September 2026.
How are Applicants Selected?
- Based on academic merit, alignment with SCRIPTS research agenda, and strength of application documents.
- Diversity and inclusivity are emphasized in selection.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- All countries outside Germany, with priority for underrepresented regions and communities in academia.
Where will the Fellowship be Taken?
Freie Universität Berlin, Germany (SCRIPTS Cluster of Excellence).
How Many Fellowships?
Up to 3 positions available.
What is the Benefit of the Fellowship?
- €1,800 monthly stipend for up to 12 months.
- Possible child allowances.
- Formal academic mentoring arrangement.
- Tailored theoretical and methodological training.
- Professional development, intercultural learning, and networking.
- Participation in biweekly colloquia and fellowship events.
- Full integration into the academic life of SCRIPTS in Berlin.
How Long Will the Fellowship Last?
- 12 months (September 2026 – August 2027).
Required Documents:
- Cover letter (max 2 pages) explaining:
- Alignment with fellowship goals.
- Why BGTS is optimal for training.
- Fit of PhD project with SCRIPTS agenda.
- 2–3 suggested mentors from SCRIPTS Principal Investigators.
- Three-page outline of PhD thesis.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Proof of enrollment in a PhD program.
- One letter of reference from supervisor/professor.
- Copies of relevant academic certificates.
- Copy of valid travel document.
How to Apply:
- Prepare all required documents.
- Combine into a single PDF file.
- Submit via email to: irc@scripts-berlin.eu.
- Ensure submission is within the application period (20 January – 28 February 2026).
👉 Visit the Award Webpage for Details: Official Call for Applications: Academic Accelerator Fellowship 2026 – Freie Universität Berlin
