The Einstein Guest Researcher programme supports doctoral-level international researchers whose academic freedom is restricted or whose safety is at risk. Immediate Support can be requested throughout the year, while the next regular Advanced Support deadline is 16 November 2026, subject to earlier university-internal deadlines.
Einstein Guest Researcher Academic Freedom Program
The Einstein Foundation Berlin created this programme for international researchers whose ability to work freely is constrained or whose personal security is threatened. It enables eligible scholars to continue research in Berlin within a supported academic environment.
The programme operates through two tracks: Immediate Support for researchers still abroad and Advanced Support for researchers who are already in Germany or another safe environment and need a stronger pathway to independent research.
Immediate Support vs Advanced Support
| Track | Target group | Timing | Maximum period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Immediate Support | At-risk doctoral-level researchers still abroad | Applications can be initiated at any time | Up to 12 months |
| Advanced Support | At-risk doctoral-level researchers generally already in Germany or another safe environment | Regular Foundation deadlines; next 16 November 2026 | Up to 2 years |
Eligibility
Applicants must generally:
- hold a doctorate or equivalent terminal research degree;
- be experiencing restrictions on academic freedom or a documented threat to their safety or research activity;
- secure a host or mentor at an eligible Berlin institution;
- fit the location and mobility conditions for the selected funding track; and
- meet the programme’s nationality restrictions.
The programme excludes citizens of EU member states, Norway and Switzerland, as well as German citizens and certain educational residents as defined by the Foundation.
Funding
Immediate Support
- scholarship of up to €2,100 per month;
- support for up to 12 months; and
- up to €5,000 in additional eligible expenses for language courses, professional development and publications.
Advanced Support
- a salaried research position, generally at TV-L E13 level;
- project-related funding of up to €30,000; and
- a maximum funding period of two years.
How to Apply
- Identify a suitable host at an eligible Berlin university or Charité.
- Secure a commitment covering supervision, research fit and necessary infrastructure.
- Work with the host institution’s research office to prepare the application.
- Use the Einstein Foundation forms and submit the application in English through the eligible institution.
- For Advanced Support, work to the institution’s internal deadline rather than the later Foundation deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Einstein Guest Researcher programme currently open?
Yes. Immediate Support can be initiated throughout the year. Advanced Support follows the Foundation’s regular application deadlines.
What is the next Advanced Support deadline?
The next Foundation deadline is 16 November 2026, but eligible Berlin institutions use an earlier internal deadline of 5 October 2026.
Can a researcher apply directly?
No. A host at an eligible Berlin institution must support the candidate and the institution submits the application.
How much does Immediate Support provide?
It can provide a scholarship of up to €2,100 per month for up to 12 months, plus up to €5,000 in eligible additional expenses.
Official Sources
| Immediate Support | Available throughout the year |
|---|---|
| Advanced Support Foundation deadline | 16 November 2026 |
| University internal deadline | 5 October 2026 |
| Last verified | 20 September 2026 |
