Max Planck Doucet Research Fellowships 2026 in Germany: Your Complete Guide

Are you an early-career researcher looking for a prestigious, fully funded scholarship in Germany? The Max Planck Doucet Research Fellowships 2026 offers a unique opportunity to conduct research at one of Europe’s most respected institutions.

The Max Planck Institute for Legal History and Legal Theory in Frankfurt, Germany, hosts the Max Planck Doucet Research Fellowships 2026. In order to facilitate access to the collection for young researchers from outside Frankfurt, especially from Latin America, who are interested in using this important collection, the Max Planck Institute for Legal History and Legal Theory provides an annual scholarship for a three-month research stay at the Institute.

The Max Planck Doucet Research Fellowships is three-month program invites young researchers, especially those from outside Frankfurt, and strongly encourages candidates from Latin America to apply. The scholarship offers financial support, access to world-class academic resources, and a dynamic research environment. The Application Deadline is 15 September 2025 .

University/Institution Details

• Offered by: Max Planck Institute for Legal History and Legal Theory
• Host Country: Germany
• Location: Frankfurt am Main
• Research Focus: History of colonial law using the Doucet Collection
• Stay Duration: January to March 2026 (05.01.–31.03.2026)
• Application Deadline: 15 September 2025
• Language of Application: English or Spanish

Study Areas

The scholarship is focused on the history of colonial law in Latin America. Applicants must demonstrate that their research proposal is directly related to the monographs and source editions within the Doucet Collection. This makes the scholarship especially relevant for scholars in legal history, colonial studies, Latin American studies, and related fields.

Max Planck Doucet Research Fellowships Benefits

The Max Planck Doucet Scholarship 2026 provides comprehensive support for selected researchers:

• Living Stipend: €1,365 per month
• Travel Costs: Full reimbursement for airfare (up to €1,500 for transatlantic flights, €750 for flights within Europe)
• Optional Housing: Option to rent a room in the institute’s residences (approximately €680 per month)
• Research Resources: Access to the world-renowned Doucet Collection and the institute’s academic community
• No Application Fee: There is no cost to apply for the scholarship

Benefits Not Included

While the scholarship covers most major expenses, there are a few things you should be aware of:

• Personal Expenses: Day-to-day living costs beyond the stipend and housing are not covered.
• Family Support: The scholarship does not provide additional funds for accompanying family members.
• Health Insurance: Applicants must ensure they have valid health insurance for their stay in Germany. The stipend is intended to help cover health insurance costs, but it is not provided directly by the institute.

Eligibility Criteria for Max Planck Doucet Research Fellowships

To be eligible for the Max Planck Doucet Scholarship 2026, you must meet the following criteria:

• Early-Career Researchers: Young researchers working on topics related to the Doucet Collection
• Residency Requirement: Applicants must live outside Frankfurt, Germany.
• Regional Preference: The selection committee gives strong preference to candidates from Latin America.
• Research Focus: You must center your proposal on the history of colonial law and directly connect it to the Doucet Collection.
• Language Requirement: You must submit all application materials in English or Spanish.

Required Documents for Application

Prepare the following documents for your application:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Highlight your academic background, research experience, and publications.
• Project Description: A concise summary of your research, including objectives and how it relates to the Doucet Collection.
• Motivation Letter: Explain your interest in the scholarship, your research goals, and how you plan to use the Doucet Collection. (regarding the use of the Doucet Collection)
• Application Form: Complete the online application form available on the institute’s official website.
• Language: Spanish or English
• Submit via online application form by 15 September 2025

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Max Planck Doucet Research Fellowships Application Process

Follow these steps to apply for the Max Planck Doucet Scholarship 2026:

1. Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet all the requirements.
2. Prepare Documents: Gather your CV, project description, and motivation letter.
3. Complete Online Application: Submit your application through the Max Planck Institute’s official portal.
4. Submit Before Deadline: Ensure your application is received by 15 September 2025.
5. Await Notification: Successful candidates will be notified after the selection process.

For questions about your application, contact sekduve@lhlt.mpg.de.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Align Your Research: Clearly demonstrate how your research connects to the Doucet Collection and the history of colonial law.
• Highlight Your Qualifications: Emphasize your academic achievements and relevant research experience.
• Write a Strong Motivation Letter: Explain why you want to participate in this program and how it will benefit your career.
• Proofread Your Documents: Ensure your application is free of errors and professionally presented.
• Submit Early: Avoid last-minute technical issues by submitting your application well before the deadline.

Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in Frankfurt

While the scholarship provides a generous stipend, it’s important to understand the cost of living in Frankfurt for international students:

• Accommodation: €400–€800 per month (on-campus or shared apartments are more affordable)
• Food and Groceries: €150–€300 per month
• Transportation: €70–€90 per month (often included in student semester tickets)
• Health Insurance: €100–€120 per month
• Miscellaneous Expenses: €100–€200 per month

Total Estimated Monthly Cost: €850–€1,200, depending on lifestyle and accommodation choices.

Why Choose This Internship?

• Prestigious Institution: The Max Planck Institute is internationally recognized for research excellence.
• Fully Funded Opportunity: The scholarship covers living expenses, travel, and housing, making it accessible for scholars from around the world.
• Rich Research Environment: Access to the Doucet Collection and collaboration with leading experts in legal history.
• Networking: Connect with other researchers and expand your academic and professional network.
• Career Advancement: Enhance your CV and gain valuable international research experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Max Planck Doucet Research Fellowships 2026

1. Who can apply for the Max Planck Doucet Scholarship 2026?
Early-career researchers (postgraduate students, PhD candidates, postdocs) from outside Frankfurt, with a strong preference for those from Latin America, are eligible.

2. What is the research focus for this scholarship?
The scholarship is for research on the history of colonial law in Latin America, directly related to the Doucet Collection.

3. What documents are required for the application?
You need a CV, project description, motivation letter, and a completed online application form.

4. Is there an application fee?
No, there is no application fee.

5. What does the scholarship cover?
The scholarship provides a living stipend, travel reimbursement, and housing options.

6. Do I need to know German?
No, the application can be submitted in English or Spanish.

7. What is the deadline for applications?
The deadline is 15 September 2025.

8. How long is the scholarship period?
The scholarship lasts for three months, from 5 January to 31 March 2026.

9. Can I bring my family?
The scholarship does not provide additional support for family members.

10. Is health insurance included?
No, you must arrange your own health insurance for your stay in Germany.

Conclusion

The Max Planck Doucet Scholarship 2026 in Germany is a remarkable opportunity for early-career researchers interested in the history of colonial law. With its fully funded support, prestigious academic environment, and access to unique research resources, this scholarship can be a transformative step in your academic and professional journey. Prepare your application carefully, meet the eligibility criteria, and take advantage of this chance to advance your research at one of Europe’s leading institutions

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