Baden-Württemberg Early Career Rescue Fellowships and University of Konstanz, Konstanz (July 2026)

The Baden-Württemberg Early Career Rescue Fellowships represent a vital opportunity for postdoctoral researchers currently facing restrictions on their academic work in the United States. Indeed, academic freedom remains a cornerstone of global innovation, yet political pressures increasingly threaten scholarly independence. Therefore, this fellowship program offers a secure, funded environment for researchers to continue their work without interference. Specifically, the University of Konstanz, the University of Freiburg, and the University of Tübingen have collaborated to support international mobility and free inquiry.

Program Highlights

Feature	Details
Program Title	Baden-Württemberg Early Career Rescue Fellowships 2026–2028
Host Institutions	University of Konstanz, University of Freiburg, University of Tübingen
Fellowship Period	July 2026 – November 2028
Duration	2 Years
Number of Awards	14 Fellowships
Application Deadline	9 January 2026, 11:00 AM (CET)

Program Overview

The Baden-Württemberg Early Career Rescue Fellowships respond directly to the growing challenges facing academic freedom today. Moreover, the program specifically targets postdoctoral researchers whose work is restricted due to political pressure in the United States. Through this initiative, the host institutions aim to provide a safe haven where scholars can pursue independent, high-quality research. Furthermore, the collaboration between the Zukunftskolleg (University of Konstanz), FRIAS (University of Freiburg), and the College of Fellows (University of Tübingen) ensures a robust support network. Consequently, fellows gain access to world-class resources and interdisciplinary communities.

Eligibility Criteria

To ensure the fellowship reaches those most in need, strict eligibility guidelines apply.

• Experience: Applicants must have between 1 and 7 years of postdoctoral experience.
• Discipline: Open to researchers from any country and any discipline represented at the three host universities.
• Current Status: Candidates must demonstrate they are currently unable to conduct or continue their research in the USA due to actual political pressure.
• Commitment: A strong commitment to independent, high-quality research is essential.

Research Focus & Scope

Unlike standard academic positions, this fellowship prioritizes the protection of free inquiry.

• Independent Research: Fellows will design and execute their own research projects.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Participants will engage with diverse academic departments across the three universities.
• Global Networking: The program facilitates access to international research communities, thereby enhancing long-term career prospects.

Host Institutions & Resources

Successful applicants will be hosted by one of three prestigious institutions in Germany.

• University of Konstanz (Zukunftskolleg): Known for its excellence in supporting early-career researchers.
• University of Freiburg (FRIAS): A leading institute for advanced studies with a strong international focus.
• University of Tübingen (College of Fellows): Renowned for fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and research innovation.

Fellowship Benefits

This fellowship offers substantial support to ensure researchers can focus entirely on their work.

• Salary: Up to E14 (approximately €6,000/month, pre-tax).
• Duration: A fully funded two-year position.
• Mentorship: Local disciplinary collaboration and mentorship are integral parts of the program.
• Career Development: Extensive support for long-term career planning and international networking.

Application & Selection Process

The selection process is rigorous and prioritizes both academic excellence and the urgency of the applicant’s situation.

• Submission: Applications must be submitted online before the deadline.
• Review: A committee from the three universities will review all proposals.
• Criteria: Selection is based on research potential, the impact of political restrictions on current work, and fit with the host institution.

Registration Details

Category	Information
Registration Link	Apply Here
Application Deadline	09 January 2026, 11:00 AM (CET)
Fellowship Start	July 2026
Fellowship End	November 2028
Salary	Approx. €6,000/month (E14)

Contact Information

For specific inquiries regarding the application process or eligibility, please contact the respective institutions directly.

• University of Konstanz: Zukunftskolleg Office
• University of Freiburg: FRIAS Administration
• University of Tübingen: College of Fellows
• Official Website: Refer to the application portal for detailed contact emails.

Additional Information

Applicants should carefully prepare their documentation to substantiate their situation in the US. Additionally, candidates must select their preferred host institution during the application process. Importantly, this program represents a rare institutional commitment to protecting scholarly independence. Therefore, if you or a colleague face political constraints, immediate attention to this opportunity is advised.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who is eligible for the Baden-Württemberg Early Career Rescue Fellowships?
Researchers with 1–7 years of postdoctoral experience who are currently unable to continue their work in the US due to political pressure are eligible.

2. What is the salary for this fellowship?
Fellows receive a salary up to E14, which is approximately €6,000 per month before tax.

3. Can I choose which university to join?
Yes, applicants can choose a host institution among the University of Konstanz, University of Freiburg, or University of Tübingen.

4. When is the application deadline?
The deadline for applications is January 9, 2026, at 11:00 AM (CET).

5. Is the fellowship open to all disciplines?
Yes, the fellowship is open to researchers from any discipline represented at the three participating universities.