The University of Bonn’s SDG Fellowship 2025 offers international postdoctoral researchers the opportunity to collaborate on projects aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The University of Bonn SDG Fellowship allows tenured professors to invite international postdoctoral researchers for joint projects focused on the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Fellows will collaborate in research and teaching with a Bonn professor for one or two semesters, typically lasting 3 to 10 months.
Scholars from Africa, Latin America, and South/East Asia working on SDG-related topics receive preference. The University of Bonn SDG Fellowship fully funds scholars by covering various expenses. Applications are due by March 31, 2025.
University/Institution Details:
- Name: University of Bonn
- Location: Bonn, Germany
- Ranking: Recognized as one of Germany’s leading research universities
- Programs: The fellowship supports joint research projects on SDG-related topics
- Duration: 3 to 12 months
Study Areas:
- The Theme of the University of Bonn SDG Fellowship is the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Fields may include:
- Poverty alleviation
- Health and well-being
- Quality education
- Gender equality
- Clean water and sanitation
- Affordable and clean energy
- Climate action
- Sustainable cities and communities
- Peace, justice, and strong institutions
University of Bonn SDG Fellowship Benefits:
- Monthly Stipend: €3,000 monthly scholarship
- Family Allowance: Up to €300 for a spouse and €250 per child
- Research Expense Allowance: Up to €500 per month
- Travel Allowance: Varies based on the country of origin
- Funding duration: 3 to 12 months
Benefits Not Included:
The scholarship does not cover insurance benefits or housing arrangements
Eligibility for University of Bonn SDG Fellowship:
- Post-doctoral researchers with foreign citizenship
- Must be invited by a University of Bonn professor
- Should have a long-term academic affiliation in their home country
- Proven expertise in SDG-related research
- Preference is given to scholars from Africa, Latin America, and South/East Asia, working on SDG-related topics.
- English proficiency is required.
- A full-time professor at the University of Bonn, in collaboration with the fellow, must submit the application.
- The university does not facilitate contact between interested fellows and faculty.
Selection Criteria:
- Academic Quality & Mutual Benefit (50%)
- Research relevance to SDGs and region of origin
- Contribution to academic life at Bonn (lectures, seminars)
- Strategic Relevance & Future Cooperation (50%)
- Existing collaboration strength
- Plans for future research partnerships
- Alignment with Bonn’s research profile
Priority is given to academic quality if proposals are tied.
Application Requirements:
- Online Application Form
- Project Description (PDF, max 8 pages) including:
- Abstract (up to 250 words)
- Research outline for the fellowship (written for a multidisciplinary audience)
- Reasons for the fellow’s invitation and their contribution to research/teaching
- Overview of previous collaboration between the applicant and the fellow
- Integration plan for the fellow at the host institute (workplace, teaching, research)
- Follow-up plans: expected outcomes and future collaboration
- Fellow’s CV (PDF)
- Financing Plan (Excel template provided by the University)
University of Bonn SDG Fellowship Application Process:
- Step 1: Identify and collaborate with a full-time professor at the University of Bonn
- Step 2: Prepare required documents:
- Step 3: Submit the application online via the University of Bonn application portal
- Step 4: Applications must be submitted by a full-time professor at the University of Bonn in collaboration with the prospective fellow
Tips for a Successful Application:
- Clearly articulate the research project’s relevance to the SDGs
- Highlight the mutual benefits of the collaboration
- Demonstrate the strategic importance and potential for future cooperation
- Ensure all documents are thorough and well-organized
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in Bonn:
- Accommodation: €400 – €600
- Food and Groceries: €200 – €300
- Health Insurance: €100 – €120
- Transportation: €80 – €100 (public transport)
- Utilities and Internet: €50 – €100
- Miscellaneous (leisure, clothing, etc.): €100 – €150
- Total Estimated Expenses: €1,000 – €1,200 per month
Why Choose This Opportunity?
This fellowship provides a unique platform to engage in impactful research addressing global challenges. Collaborating with the University of Bonn enhances academic networks and contributes to meaningful advancements in sustainable development.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Who can apply for the SDG Fellowship?Postdoctoral researchers with foreign citizenship and a long-term affiliation with a university or research institute are eligible.
- Is proficiency in German required?While not explicitly stated, proficiency in English is essential; knowledge of German may be beneficial.
- Can I apply directly without a University of Bonn professor’s invitation?No, applications must be submitted jointly with a full-time professor from the University of Bonn.
- Are there specific countries prioritized for this fellowship?Yes, researchers from Africa, Latin America, and South/East Asia are given preference.
- What is the selection process for the fellowship?Applications are evaluated based on academic quality, mutual benefit, strategic relevance, and potential for future cooperation.
Official Link for More Details and Application:
For comprehensive information and to apply, visit the official University of Bonn SDG Fellowships page
