Zukunftskolleg Visiting Fellowships 2026 and University of Konstanz, Germany

The Zukunftskolleg Visiting Fellowships 2026 offer a premier opportunity for international early career researchers to engage in high-level interdisciplinary research at the University of Konstanz. Specifically designed for scholars who value independence and international collaboration, these fellowships integrate researchers into a vibrant academic community. Consequently, participants gain access to world-class facilities while contributing to the university’s innovative research ecosystem.

Program Highlights

Feature	Details
Program Title	Zukunftskolleg Visiting Fellowships 2026
Organizing Institution	University of Konstanz (Zukunftskolleg)
Duration	Up to 4 months
Mode of Delivery	On-site (Konstanz, Germany)
Nomination Deadline	1 March 2026
Strategic Focus	5i Strategy (International, Intergenerational, Independent, Interdisciplinary, Intra-university)

Program Overview

The Zukunftskolleg Visiting Fellowships 2026 aim to foster interdisciplinary exchange by bringing international talent to the University of Konstanz. The program operates under the 5i strategy, ensuring that every fellow benefits from an environment that is international, intergenerational, and independent. Furthermore, the initiative bridges various departments within the university, allowing for a seamless flow of ideas across diverse fields of study.

The primary objective is to provide early career researchers (ECRs) with the space and resources to advance their specific projects while engaging with the local academic community. Because the fellowship emphasizes “intra-university” connections, fellows are expected to collaborate closely with hosting departments.

Eligibility Criteria

Potential candidates must meet specific academic and professional benchmarks to be considered for the program:

• Applicants must be international early career researchers (Postdocs or junior faculty).
• Candidates should have a clear affiliation with a department at the University of Konstanz for the duration of their stay.
• A demonstrated interest in interdisciplinary research and the “inspirational mind-set” of the Zukunftskolleg is essential.
• Candidates must be nominated by a member of the University of Konstanz faculty or a current Zukunftskolleg Fellow.

Benefits for Visiting Fellows

Participants in the program receive comprehensive support to ensure a productive research stay. In addition to a dedicated workspace, fellows are integrated into all academic and social events at the Zukunftskolleg. Specifically, the fellowship provides:

• Access to the university’s advanced research infrastructure.
• Opportunities to network with senior professors and fellow postdoctoral researchers.
• A platform to present research findings to a diverse, interdisciplinary audience.
• Administrative support for navigating the local academic environment.

Obligations for Visiting Fellows

Fellows are expected to be active contributors to the Zukunftskolleg community. During their stay, they should participate in weekly colloquia and interdisciplinary workshops. Additionally, fellows must acknowledge the Zukunftskolleg in any publications resulting from the research conducted during the fellowship period.

Nomination and Application Details

The selection process for the Zukunftskolleg Visiting Fellowships 2026 is based on a nomination system. Interested researchers should contact their prospective hosts at the University of Konstanz well in advance of the deadline.

Requirement	Information
Nomination Deadline	1 March 2026
Submission Portal	University of Konstanz / Zukunftskolleg Online System
Registration Fee	None
Fellowship Duration	Maximum of 4 months

Contact Information

For further inquiries regarding the fellowship or the nomination process, researchers may contact the program coordinators:

• Institution: University of Konstanz, Zukunftskolleg
• Website: uni.kn/zukunftskolleg
• General Inquiry: Contact page editor/Zukunftskolleg Office
• Emergency Contact: University Emergency Number: 2222

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the duration of the Zukunftskolleg Visiting Fellowships 2026?
The fellowship supports research stays for a period of up to four months on-site in Konstanz.

Can I apply directly for the fellowship?
No, candidates must be nominated by a faculty member or a fellow at the University of Konstanz to be eligible.

Is there a specific research field required?
The program is interdisciplinary; therefore, researchers from all departments represented at the University of Konstanz are encouraged to participate.

What does the “5i” strategy stand for?
It represents the core values of the Zukunftskolleg: International, Intergenerational, Independent, Interdisciplinary, and Intra-university.

When is the final deadline for nominations?
The deadline for the 2026 intake is March 1, 2026.