The Alexander von Humboldt Foundation has opened applications for the 2026 International Climate Protection Fellowship, offering opportunities for professionals and postdoctoral researchers from non-European developing and transition countries, including Nigeria, to carry out climate-related projects in Germany.
The Foundation announced that the fellowship supports prospective leaders and postdocs who are actively engaged in climate protection and climate change–related issues. Each year, up to 15 fellowships are awarded to professionals working practically, alongside up to five fellowships for postdoctoral researchers.
According to the organisers, the programme is funded through the International Climate Initiative, which became the responsibility of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action in 2022. The Initiative cooperates with its founding ministry, the Federal Ministry for Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection, as well as the Federal Foreign Office.
In a statement, the Foundation said the fellowship is aimed at individuals who “engage with climate change issues and are committed to contributing to climate protection and sustainable development in their home countries.”
Eligibility for the fellowship is open to citizens of non-European developing or transition countries who have been predominantly living and working in those countries. Applicants are expected to have initial experience in leadership roles and demonstrate corresponding leadership skills. Very good knowledge of English and or German is also required.
The fellowship provides different levels of financial support depending on the applicant’s career stage. Prospective leaders working practically receive a monthly fellowship amount of 2,500 euros, 2,800 euros or 3,000 euros, depending on their training and experience. Postdoctoral researchers receive a monthly fellowship amount of 3,000 euros, in addition to ancillary benefits.
The Foundation explained that fellows also receive individual support during their stay in Germany. Additional financial assistance may be provided for accompanying partners and children, travel expenses, full private health insurance and participation in German language courses.
As part of the programme, fellows take part in a three-week introductory event designed to help them connect with other climate protection fellows. The event includes visits to businesses and research institutions, as well as cultural activities across Germany.
The organisers also highlighted the programme’s extensive alumni sponsorship, which supports long-term professional connections between fellows and their cooperation partners in Germany throughout their careers. Host institutions in Germany receive a monthly allowance for research costs, set at 800 euros for projects in the natural and engineering sciences and 500 euros for projects in the humanities and social sciences.
Applicants are required to agree on their research or practical project with an independently chosen host in Germany before applying. The application process is completed online through the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation’s official website.
Required documents include an application form with personal information, a letter of motivation and a detailed description of the research project, including a communication strategy. Applicants must also submit two letters of recommendation not older than twelve months, as well as an extensive host’s statement and mentoring agreement from their German host.
The Foundation advised applicants with questions to contact the programme team by email before submitting their application. The fellowship is expected to attract strong interest from professionals seeking to strengthen climate action through international cooperation and research-based practice.
