University of Konstanz Zukunftskolleg Postdoctoral Fellowships 2027: Four Fully Funded 2-Year Research Positions in Germany
Applications are open for four two-year postdoctoral fellowships at the University of Konstanz's Zukunftskolleg for early-career researchers across the natural sciences, humanities, and social sciences.
Overview
The University of Konstanz invites applications for four two-year Zukunftskolleg Postdoctoral Fellowships in Germany, starting on 1 April 2027. Designed as an Institute for Advanced Study for early-career scholars, the Zukunftskolleg provides institutional resources, professional development, and interdisciplinary networks across the natural sciences, humanities, and social sciences.
Successful candidates receive full-time employment remunerated under the German E13 TV-L public-sector academic salary scale. Under certain conditions involving external grant submissions, the fellowship may be extended for an additional year. Fellows are required to maintain their primary residence in Konstanz or the surrounding area.
Eligibility
The opportunity targets exceptional early-career researchers demonstrating scientific excellence and research independence. Applicants must meet specific criteria:
- Hold a doctoral degree normally granted between 30 September 2024 and 1 October 2026, with potential exceptions for maternity or paternity leave and non-academic employment.
- Not hold a permanent professorship, habilitation, or equivalent qualification such as Venia legendi.
- Propose an independent research project that connects with a discipline represented at the University of Konstanz.
- Coordinate with a potential local host researcher at the University prior to applying.
Benefits
Fellows enjoy comprehensive support to foster academic independence and career advancement:
- Salaried full-time postdoctoral position under E13 TV-L.
- An annual individual research allowance.
- Access to additional funding pools for research assistants, equipment, travel, and scientific retreats.
- Opportunities for international research visits and mentorship from senior scholars.
- Professional career counselling, coaching, and grant proposal writing support.
- No mandatory teaching obligations, with optional teaching available for professional development.
- Possible affiliation with major research entities, including University Clusters of Excellence.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted in English via the official University of Konstanz online application portal under reference number 2026/138. A complete application package requires strict adherence to page limits and must include:
- A one-page motivation letter addressing research trajectory, institutional fit, and connections to UN Sustainable Development Goals where appropriate.
- A maximum five-page research proposal including references.
- A comprehensive academic CV.
- A writing sample of no more than 30 single pages.
- Two reference letters (which referees may send directly via email to the Zukunftskolleg).
Deadline
The application deadline is 12 October 2026 at 11:00 AM Central European Time (CET). Selection decisions are expected to be communicated around mid-February 2027.