Bayreuth Academy International Fellowships 2027–2028 in Germany: 15 Funded Research Residencies for African Studies Scholars Worldwide

Overview

The Bayreuth Academy of Advanced African Studies at the University of Bayreuth in Germany invites applications for the Bayreuth Academy International Fellowships for the 2027–2028 academic year. The programme awards 15 Individual Fellowships to scholars worldwide conducting research in African Studies. Successful participants undertake mandatory residential research stays ranging from one to five months, collaborating with local scholars and contributing to the Africa Multiple Cluster of Excellence.

Fellows may align their research with one of six thematic Research Sections: Accumulation, Digitalities, Ecologies, In/securities, Re, or Translating, or contribute to the Cluster's broader agenda on world-making and relationality.

Eligibility

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Hold a completed PhD.
• Conduct research primarily in African Studies across humanities, social, technical, or natural sciences.
• Be available for physical residence in Bayreuth during the fellowship term.

Benefits

Financial support depends on the fellow's employment and remuneration status:

• Without Remuneration: EUR 2,500 monthly living allowance plus a EUR 750 monthly mobility allowance.
• On Paid Leave: EUR 1,000 monthly living allowance plus a EUR 750 monthly mobility allowance.
• Teaching Buyout: Reimbursement to the home institution for a substitute lecturer up to EUR 7,000 per month, alongside a mobility allowance.
• Eligible travel expense reimbursement to and from Bayreuth.
• Additional monthly mobility support for fellows accompanied by minor children (EUR 250 per month per child).
• Workspace, specialist library access, membership in the Africa Multiple Cluster of Excellence, and publication support.

How to Apply

Applicants must complete the official online application form and submit supporting documents as PDF files where specified:

• Complete list of academic publications.
• Curriculum vitae.
• Motivation letter (maximum 3,500 characters).
• Research project outline (maximum 6,500 characters).
• Statement of contribution to the Cluster's research agenda, including named Bayreuth-based collaborators (maximum 3,500 characters).
• Gender and diversity statement (maximum 2,000 characters).
• Contact details for two academic referees.

Deadline

The application deadline is 5 October 2026 at 23:59 Central European Summer Time (CEST).