ABCD Future Leaders Scholarship 2027 in Germany | Fully Funded
The ABCD Future Leaders Scholarship 2027 provides nine-month doctoral research stays in Germany for candidates from developing nations focusing on climate, water, and ecosystems. Applications close on 31 October 2026.

Overview
The ABCD Future Leaders Scholarship provides a nine-month research stay in Germany for doctoral students from developing nations. Organised by the Global Water and Climate Adaptation Centre (ABCD-Centre) and DAAD, the programme focuses on themes such as water security, ecosystem resilience, and climate adaptation. The research stays run from 1 March to 30 November 2027 at participating host institutions including RWTH Aachen University, TU Dresden, and UNU Resource Nexus.
Benefits
- Monthly stipend of €1,200 for accommodation and living expenses.
- Insurance allowance of up to €105 per month.
- One-time travel grant of up to €1,000.
- Up to €1,000 allocated for research materials and equipment through the host institution.
Eligibility
- Must have started a PhD within the last three years.
- Must be registered as a full-time doctoral student at a university in a developing country.
- Must possess a research topic aligned with the ABCD-Centre's research priorities.
- Must show strong academic merit, motivation, and effective English communication skills.
- Must demonstrate adaptability to conduct research in Germany.
How to Apply
Candidates must compile all necessary application documents into a single PDF file and submit it to the designated centre email address. Required materials include:
- A personal motivation statement for the research stay (2-3 pages).
- A sample written scientific paper and a recent curriculum vitae.
- Indication of the preferred host university.
- A support letter from the home institution and preferably an invitation letter by a host scientist.
- A statement of the ability to work online if remote work is required.
- An enrollment certificate and current transcript of records from the last six months.
- A copy of your passport.
Deadline
The deadline to submit applications is 31 October 2026.
