A Premier Pathway for International Postdoctoral Researchers
The TUM Global Postdoc Fellowship provides an exceptional opportunity for promising early-career researchers from across the globe to establish an independent academic and research trajectory at the Technical University of Munich (TUM). This fully funded, two-year program is specifically tailored for candidates who have recently completed their PhD or are nearing completion. The fellowship supports high-impact research with access to outstanding infrastructure, mentorship, and integration into Germany’s dynamic research ecosystem.
About the Technical University of Munich (TUM)
The Technical University of Munich (TUM) is a leading academic and research institution in Germany and consistently ranks among the most prestigious universities in Europe. Known for its strong interdisciplinary approach, TUM offers programs that span science, engineering, technology, medicine, architecture, and the humanities. The university is distinguished by its research excellence, innovation ecosystem, and global industry collaborations, making it a highly desirable destination for postdoctoral researchers aiming for career growth and global impact.
TUM is committed to fostering a supportive research environment through access to cutting-edge laboratories, collaborative initiatives, and structured career development programs. The university’s focus on academic leadership and internationalization further enhances the visibility and influence of its postdoctoral scholars.
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Fellowship OverviewDuration of the Fellowship
- The fellowship is awarded for a fixed period of 24 months.
- TUM holds two application calls each year, offering flexibility in planning research timelines.
Fellowship Funding
Fellows receive generous financial support throughout the duration of the program:
- Monthly stipend: €2,670 to cover living expenses
- One-time initiation grant: €430 for initial setup
- Regional allowance: Additional €350/month for fellows living in the Munich Metropolitan Region
- Family-related support: May be provided depending on individual circumstances
This funding structure is designed to ensure financial stability while enabling full-time research engagement.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the TUM Global Postdoc Fellowship, candidates must meet the following qualifications:
- PhD completion requirement: Applicants must have completed a PhD within the past three years or be scheduled to defend their thesis within 12 months of the application deadline.
- International residence condition: At the time of application, candidates must be residing outside Germany.
- Degree origin: The doctoral degree must have been conferred by an institution other than TUM.
- Employment restriction: Individuals currently employed at TUM are not eligible for this fellowship.
- Research location: All fellows must commit to carrying out their research on-site at TUM in
Munich for the full fellowship duration.
Application Process
The application procedure consists of two distinct phases to ensure transparency and competitiveness:
Phase I: Expression of Interest
- Applicants submit a preliminary application without a confirmed host.
- Candidates may list up to three preferred host professors or chairs at TUM.
- The selection committee conducts an eligibility check and merit-based evaluation.
Phase II: Full Proposal Submission
- Shortlisted candidates receive an invitation to submit a comprehensive proposal.
- At this stage, candidates must obtain a Letter of Support from a TUM professor, chair, or junior fellow.
- The selected TUM host must agree to co-finance 20% of the fellowship cost.
- Applicants must include a detailed research proposal, budget overview, and an explanation of alignment with TUM’s research themes.
This structured process ensures clarity, strategic matching, and a high standard of selection.
Supported Research Disciplines
The TUM Global Postdoc Fellowship supports a wide spectrum of academic disciplines. Applicants from the following fields—and interdisciplinary areas—are welcome to apply:
- Life Sciences and Medicine
- Engineering and Natural Sciences
- Computer Science and Data
Science - Architecture and Design
- Social Sciences and Humanities
- Environmental Sciences and Sustainability
Proposals that demonstrate interdisciplinary integration or address major societal challenges are especially encouraged. Alignment with TUM’s strategic research focus will strengthen the application.
Fellowship Benefits
The program provides more than financial assistance—it equips postdoctoral researchers with a holistic career development pathway:
- Comprehensive funding for two years of full-time postdoctoral research
- Access to world-class research infrastructure, core facilities, and technical support
- Structured orientation and mentoring through the TUM Talent Factory
- Collaborative partnerships with academic and industrial research networks
- Residency in Munich, one of Europe’s leading innovation and research hubs
- A strong foundation for transitioning into tenure-track, academic, or industry leadership roles
Application Timeline and Deadlines
TUM operates two distinct calls annually to accommodate diverse planning needs:
Call 5.1
- Application Deadline: Typically in mid-April (e.g., April 13)
- Start Date Eligibility: Between October of the same year and October of the following year
Call 5.2
- Application Deadline: Typically in late September (e.g., September 30)
- Start Date Eligibility: Between April of the following year and April of the year after
Applicants are strongly encouraged to begin preparations well in advance, particularly in identifying and establishing contact with potential TUM hosts.
How to Apply
Interested individuals should submit
their applications through the official portal managed by TUM’s Postdoc Office:
🔗 Application Portal
Applicants must review all instructions, forms, and criteria thoroughly before starting the application process. Early dialogue with prospective host faculty is highly recommended to ensure a strong, aligned proposal.
Conclusion
The TUM Global Postdoc Fellowship represents a strategic and prestigious pathway for international researchers looking to advance their postdoctoral careers within Germany’s vibrant academic environment. With robust institutional backing, interdisciplinary support, and an emphasis on research innovation, the fellowship provides a critical launchpad for academic and research leadership in Europe.
Quick Summary Table
Feature | Details |
Program Name | TUM Global Postdoc Fellowship |
Host Country / Region | Germany / Munich |
Funded By | Technical University of Munich (TUM) |
Duration | 24 months (2 years) |
Study Mode | On-site, full-time research at TUM |
Eligibility | PhD within last 3 years, non-German resident, non-TUM graduate, on-site only |
Financial Support | €2,670/month + €430 setup + €350/month Munich allowance + potential family support |
Fields of Study | Life Sciences, Engineering, Data Science, Architecture, Humanities, Environment |
Application Deadline | Mid-April and End-September (based on call cycle) |
Official Website | See Below |
References
- TUM Global Postdoc Fellowship Official Website
- Technical University of Munich (TUM) Institutional Overview
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the TUM Global Postdoc Fellowship?The TUM Global Postdoc Fellowship funds international postdocs for two years to conduct full-time research at the Technical University of Munich.
Who is eligible for the TUM Postdoc Fellowship?Applicants must reside outside Germany, hold a non-TUM PhD, and have completed their doctorate within the past three years or be near defense.
How much funding do TUM postdoc fellows receive?Fellows receive €2,670 monthly, a €430 kick-off grant, and €350 housing support if residing in the Munich region.
Can I apply to the TUM Postdoc Fellowship without a host?Yes, the first phase allows applying without a confirmed TUM host, though listing preferred hosts is encouraged.
What documents are needed for the TUM Global Fellowship?Applicants typically submit a CV, research plan, proof of PhD status, and, if shortlisted, a host support letter.
When is the deadline for the TUM Postdoc Fellowship application?The fellowship has two annual deadlines—typically mid-April and late September—based on the call cycle.
Can current TUM employees apply for the fellowship?No, the program is only open to external candidates not currently affiliated with TUM in any employment capacity.
Is the TUM fellowship open to all academic fields?Yes, all disciplines supported by TUM—life sciences, engineering, humanities, and more—are eligible under the program.
Does the TUM fellowship cover relocation or family expenses?Yes, the program offers a regional allowance and may provide additional support based on family circumstances.
How competitive is the TUM Global Postdoc Fellowship?It is highly competitive, with a two-phase selection process focusing on research excellence and institutional alignment.
