Study Funding by the German AIDS Foundation

The study funding from the German AIDS Foundation is aimed at students, doctoral candidates, and postdoctoral researchers in Germany who wish to write their final thesis (bachelor’s, master’s, dissertation, or habilitation) on HIV, AIDS, or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). In this nationwide program, private early-career researchers can receive grants of up to 6,000 euros to cover material costs, living expenses, and travel costs during the research and writing phase. The funding aims to strengthen the scientific discourse surrounding prevention, care, discrimination, and psychosocial aspects of HIV/AIDS/STIs and to increase the visibility of socially relevant research projects. Applications are evaluated twice a year, with decisions made by the board based on recommendations from the advisory committee.

A prerequisite for a successful application is that the qualification thesis has not yet been started at the time of application and that there is a clear academic connection to HIV, AIDS, or STIs. Additionally, applicants must be enrolled at a university (exception: doctoral candidates and postdoctoral researchers). Required documents include a completed application form, letter of motivation, curriculum vitae, exposé with a provisional table of contents, enrollment certificate (exception as noted above), statement from the supervising academic, and a financial plan for the use of funds. The next application deadline for the summer semester 2026 is January 31, 2026. Submitted theses will be assessed based on their scientific merit and relevance to the topics of HIV/AIDS/STIs. Funding promises not only financial relief but also increased visibility for the research topic and long-term impetus for addressing a globally significant challenge.