Carl Zeiss Humboldt Research Award

The Carl Zeiss Humboldt Research Award honors international leading scientists in STEM fields whose discoveries, theories, or insights have a lasting impact on their discipline and contribute to aspects of diversity. The award recognizes individuals who stand out through their overall body of work to date and demonstrate exceptional innovation and diversity potential in research. The funding amount includes €100,000 prize money as well as up to €50,000 to support self-chosen research projects in Germany. These funds may be used for scientific conferences, consumables such as specialized literature and equipment, childcare, or the involvement of early-career researchers.

A prerequisite for nomination is a recommendation by researchers at institutions in Baden-Württemberg, Rhineland-Palatinate, or Thuringia. Eligible candidates are internationally recognized scientists from abroad in the fields of mathematics, computer science, natural sciences, and engineering. The project duration is six to twelve months and can be arranged flexibly. Selection criteria include the candidate’s overall scientific achievements to date, the innovative content of the research ideas, and the contribution to diversity aspects. This award aims not only to honor excellent performance but also to promote networking between international top researchers and German research institutions. Interested institutions and nominees are provided with the opportunity through this program to establish long-term collaborations and realize pioneering projects within the German scientific community.