Refugee Researchers

The German Research Foundation (DFG) supports the rapid integration of researchers who have fled from their home countries into the German research system through the initiative "Refugee Researchers." Universities and research institutions nationwide can submit informal applications for personnel positions, guest funds, and qualification scholarships to enable the participation of refugee researchers in ongoing projects. Alternatively, the Walter Benjamin Program offers special positions for independent research projects, where the usual age and career restrictions for target groups do not apply. Funding extends up to 24 months and additionally supports living expenses with a grant of up to €1,000 per month. Applications can be submitted at any time and should include a project description of no more than five pages (excluding CV and bibliography).

Funding is provided to individuals who, at the time of application, have been living outside their home country for no more than three years and either hold an asylum-related residence status in the EU or provide credible evidence of threat (not older than 12 months). A prior two-year funding through comparable programs excludes reapplication. Selection is based on DFG quality criteria, with particular consideration of scientific relevance as well as the clarity and expressiveness of the applications. Required documents include an informal application with a project outline, a tabular CV, and a bibliography. Public and education-related institutions in Germany benefit from this uncomplicated opportunity to purposefully support refugee talents and sustainably enrich the research system.