Are you a postdoctoral researcher eager to contribute to global solutions? Or a tenured professor at the University of Bonn looking to collaborate with international scholars? The Bonn SDG Fellowship provides a unique platform for conducting research aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This initiative fosters global academic partnerships, advances innovative research, and enhances international networks.
In this guide, we’ll cover essential details about the fellowship, including eligibility, funding, selection criteria, and tips for a strong application.
Why This Fellowship Matters
The SDGs serve as a global framework for addressing critical challenges like poverty, inequality, climate change, and sustainability. To drive progress, cross-border research collaborations are crucial—exactly what the Bonn SDG Fellowship aims to facilitate.
This program supports international postdoctoral scholars working on SDG-focused research in collaboration with the University of Bonn faculty. It promotes knowledge-sharing and capacity-building, particularly benefiting researchers from Africa, Asia, and Latin America—regions facing pressing development challenges.
Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) 2025 – Apply Now
Key Features of the Bonn SDG Fellowship
Who Can Apply?
To be considered, applicants must:
- Be postdoctoral researchers from outside Germany.
- Secure an invitation from a tenured professor at the University of Bonn.
- Maintain an academic affiliation with a university or research institute in Africa, Asia, or Latin America beyond the fellowship duration.
- We specialize in SDG-related areas such as climate action, sustainable agriculture, health equity, and education.
(Note: The university does not facilitate matching between applicants and faculty members.)
Persons and projects already funded
Funding Overview
The fellowship provides financial support for a research stay of 3 to 12 months, covering:
- Monthly Stipend: €3,000
- Family Support: Up to €300 for a spouse and €250 per child
- Travel Grant: Varies based on country of origin
- Research Expense Allowance: Up to €500 per month
Regional Focus
Priority is given to researchers from Africa, Asia, and Latin America—regions where SDG implementation faces substantial hurdles. The program aligns with SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by fostering global academic collaboration.
Selection Criteria: What Makes a Strong Proposal?
Applications are assessed based on two major aspects:
1. Academic Quality & Mutual Benefit (50%)
- Research Impact: Does the study tackle key SDG-related challenges?
- Relevance to Home Region: How does the research address regional issues?
- Contribution to Bonn: Will the fellow engage in academic activities like lectures or workshops?
- Host Institute Integration: Is there a structured collaboration plan with the University of Bonn professor?
2. Strategic Value & Future Cooperation (50%)
- Prior Collaboration: The applicant has worked with the university before or not?
- Long-Term Impact: Does the proposal outline a sustainable partnership?
- Alignment with University Priorities: How well does the project fit within Bonn’s research themes?
- Knowledge Dissemination: How will research findings be shared?
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
- Find a Host Professor: Identify and contact a tenured professor at the University of Bonn whose research aligns with your expertise.
- Develop a Research Proposal: Collaborate with your host professor to craft a compelling research plan.
- Submit the Application: The host professor submits the application along with the necessary documents.
Application Requirements
- Online Application Form
- Project Proposal (max. 8 pages, PDF format) including:
- Research Abstract (250 words max)
- Detailed research plan (written for a multidisciplinary audience)
- Justification for the fellowship and expected contributions
- Description of ongoing collaboration between applicant and host professor
- Outline of the fellow’s integration into the host institute
- Future plans of cooperation beyond the fellowship
- Fellow’s CV (PDF format)
- Financial Plan (as per the provided template, Excel file here)
Evaluation Process
- Pre-Assessment: Independent experts conduct an anonymous review.
- Final Selection: A university-wide committee selects successful candidates.
Application Deadline
- For research stays between January 2026 – October 2026: March 31, 2025
Final Thoughts
The Bonn SDG Fellowship is a remarkable opportunity for researchers committed to sustainable development. By fostering international collaboration and innovative research, it strengthens academic networks and contributes to meaningful global change.
For more details, visit the official Bonn SDG Fellowships page and start preparing your application today!
