Discover the prestigious AIAS-AUFF Fellowships 2026 at the Aarhus Institute of Advanced Studies (AIAS), Denmark—an exceptional fully funded research opportunity designed for talented, curiosity-driven researchers globally. These fellowships offer a unique platform to conduct interdisciplinary research while benefiting from a stimulating academic environment at Aarhus University. With extensive benefits and career development support, AIAS-AUFF Fellowships empower researchers to thrive in their academic careers. This comprehensive guide covers everything about the AIAS-AUFF Fellowships 2026, including crucial deadlines, eligibility, benefits, and application tips.

Basic Information About AIAS-AUFF Fellowships 2026
- Fellowship Duration: 23 months
- Start Date: 1 September 2026
- Deadline for Application: 28 October 2025 (12:00 noon CET)
- Number of Fellowships: Up to 10 positions available
- Research Experience Required: 2 to 10 years post-PhD for junior fellowships; senior fellowships also available for researchers with 11+ years post-PhD experience.
- Open to: Researchers from all disciplines and any nationality
- Location: Aarhus Institute of Advanced Studies (AIAS), Aarhus University Campus, Denmark
The AIAS-AUFF Fellowships provide researchers with an environment that promotes interdisciplinary collaborations and intellectual exploration for groundbreaking research projects.
University and Institution Details: Aarhus Institute of Advanced Studies (AIAS)
AIAS is situated within Aarhus University in Denmark and serves as a vibrant, interdisciplinary platform connecting researchers from diverse fields and nationalities. It fosters transparent discussions, cooperation, and creative scholarly engagement. AIAS offers office space, academic training activities, workshops, and conferences, creating a strong collaborative research atmosphere.
Study Areas and Available Programs
The AIAS-AUFF Fellowships welcome applications from all research disciplines without restriction. This open approach encourages interdisciplinary research and collaboration across:
- Natural Sciences
- Social Sciences
- Humanities
- Health Sciences
- Technical and Engineering Sciences
- Arts and Culture
Applicants should have or plan an interdisciplinary research project with potential collaboration opportunities at Aarhus University.
AIAS-AUFF Fellowships Benefits: What the Fellowship Offers
- Full Salary: Fellows receive a salary based on seniority regulated under Danish collective union agreements.
- Relocation Support: Includes one-way travel costs to Aarhus and relocation assistance.
- Employment Perks: Pension contributions, paid sick leave, 5 (+1) weeks of paid vacation annually.
- Office Space: Dedicated office at AIAS within Aarhus University.
- Academic Development: Access to workshops, conferences, and training programs.
- Research Budget: Limited funds may be available for project-related research expenditures upon approval.
- Affiliation: Fellowship includes affiliation with the relevant research environments at Aarhus University.
This comprehensive package supports fellows’ professional growth while providing a balanced work-life environment.
Benefits Not Included
- The fellowship primarily covers direct salary and relocation; it does not include broader living costs or family relocation packages.
- Dependents’ living costs or educational expenses are not included and must be self-financed.
- Health insurance specifics are not explicitly mentioned; fellows typically need to arrange for their own health coverage according to Danish regulations.
Eligibility Criteria for AIAS-AUFF Fellowships
- Must hold a PhD degree by the deadline date.
- Junior fellows: 2 to 10 years of postdoctoral research experience.
- Senior fellows: Over 11 years of experience post-PhD.
- Applicants must not have resided or worked in Denmark for more than 12 months during the two years immediately prior to the application deadline (mobility requirement).
- Must have an innovative, curiosity-driven, interdisciplinary research project.
- Demonstrated potential for collaboration with Aarhus University research groups.
- Career breaks (maternity/paternity, illness, etc.) are considered in eligibility assessment.
The selection criteria emphasize scientific excellence, project quality, methodological clarity, academic merit, and fit with AIAS’s interdisciplinary mission.
Required Documents for Application
- Completed online application form via the GrantOne system.
- Comprehensive research project description emphasizing interdisciplinary impact.
- Curriculum Vitae detailing academic qualifications and achievements.
- Documentation of PhD degree and proof of research experience.
- Letters of support or references highlighting applicant’s credentials.
- Explanation of mobility requirement compliance.
- Statement about career breaks, if applicable.
Applicants are encouraged to carefully follow the detailed “Guide for Applicants” available on AIAS’s official website.
AIAS-AUFF Fellowships Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
- Explore Opportunity: Visit AIAS website & review fellowship details and guidelines.
- Prepare Documents: Gather PhD certificates, CV, research proposals, and support letters.
- Submit Online Application: Apply via GrantOne before the deadline (28 October 2025, noon CET).
- Eligibility Check: AIAS reviews applications for eligibility and completeness.
- Peer Review: Applications are assessed by international experts based on scientific merit and interdisciplinary fit.
- Shortlisting: Selection board evaluates candidates and finalizes selections.
- Notification: Applicants receive results by March 2026.
- Fellowship Start: Successful fellows begin their appointments on 1 September 2026.
Timely submission and adherence to guidelines are critical to success.
Tips for a Successful AIAS-AUFF Fellowship Application
- Highlight Interdisciplinary Impact: Showcase how your research benefits from AIAS’s collaborative environment.
- Demonstrate Mobility Compliance: Clearly confirm eligibility regarding residency/work in Denmark.
- Prepare a Clear, Detailed Research Plan: Address project feasibility, innovative aspects, and expected outcomes.
- Showcase Academic Excellence: Include achievements, publications, and prior collaborations.
- Align with AIAS and Aarhus University: Explain how your project fits with their research themes and benefits from the fellowship.
- Address Career Breaks Thoughtfully: Provide clear explanations to maintain a fair review process.
- Follow Instructions Strictly: Complete all required documents and submit on time.
Strong applications combine academic rigor with a clear fit to AIAS’s mission and interdisciplinary ethos.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in Denmark (USD Approximate)
While the fellowship covers salary, understanding living costs in Aarhus is vital:
- Accommodation: $600 – $900
- Food and Groceries: $300 – $450
- Transportation: $50 – $80
- Utilities and Internet: $100 – $150
- Health Insurance (if private): $50 – $100
- Miscellaneous (clothing, entertainment): $150 – $250
Total Estimated Monthly Expenses: $1,250 to $1,900 USD
Denmark offers a high standard of living with excellent infrastructure but also has moderate living costs that should be planned for by fellows and their families.
Why Choose the AIAS-AUFF Fellowship? 5 Compelling Reasons
- Fully Funded and Competitive Salary: Assurance of financial stability backed by Danish labor agreements.
- Interdisciplinary Research Environment: Work across disciplines with global researchers in a stimulating academic community.
- Career Development Focus: Tailored training and development programs to boost academic careers.
- Prestigious Host Institution: Affiliation with Aarhus University, a leading European research university.
- Relocation and Research Support: Comprehensive relocation aid and access to resources facilitate smooth transition and effective research.
This fellowship is ideal for researchers seeking outstanding growth opportunities in a world-class research setting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Who can apply for AIAS-AUFF Fellowships?
A1: Researchers holding a PhD with 2-10 years (junior) or 11+ years (senior) postdoctoral experience from any discipline and nationality.
Q2: Is the fellowship fully funded?
A2: Yes, it covers a full salary, relocation costs, office space, and access to academic resources.
Q3: Are family members supported financially?
A3: No, dependent expenses are not covered by the fellowship.
Q4: Can I apply if I lived in Denmark recently?
A4: Applicants must not have spent more than 12 months in Denmark within the last two years before the application deadline.
Q5: When does the fellowship start?
A5: 1 September 2026 for a 23-month duration.
Q6: How do I apply?
A6: Submit the online application via the GrantOne system by the deadline, including all required documents.
Official Link:
This AIAS-AUFF Fellowship 2026 opportunity is a gateway to academic excellence and international collaboration in Denmark’s thriving research environment. Researchers from around the world are encouraged to apply and take their careers to new heights.