The Academy of International Affairs North Rhine-Westphalia (AIA NRW) Fellowship 2027–2028 offers a prestigious opportunity for postdoctoral researchers and experienced professionals to undertake advanced research in Germany. Hosted in Bonn, the fellowship supports individuals working in fields related to international affairs, policy, and global governance.
This programme is designed to foster collaboration between academia and practice, bringing together scholars and professionals from politics, diplomacy, media, business, and civil society. With a strong emphasis on policy relevance and interdisciplinary engagement, the fellowship provides a unique platform for impactful research and professional exchange.
Details
The AIA NRW Fellowship provides residencies ranging from three to ten months between April 2027 and March 2028. Fellows are based in Bonn, a key international hub hosting numerous global organizations and policy institutions.
Applicants can choose between two tracks:
• Track A: Open topic, allowing proposals on any significant issue in international affairs
• Track B: Thematic focus on “Comprehensive Security for a Changing World: Building Strategic and Technological Resilience”
Within these tracks, candidates may apply under either:
• Academic Track: For postdoctoral researchers with a completed PhD and a strong publication record
• Practitioner Track: For experienced professionals contributing insights from real-world policy or operational experience
Fellows are expected to actively participate in seminars, collaborative discussions, and institutional activities, as well as contribute to publications and knowledge exchange initiatives.
Benefits
The fellowship provides comprehensive support tailored to different professional backgrounds.
Key benefits include:
• Financial support in the form of a stipend, salary replacement, or institutional reimbursement
• Fully funded accommodation in Bonn for the duration of the fellowship
• Coverage of round-trip travel expenses
• Dedicated office space and access to research facilities
• Individual budget for research-related expenses
• Opportunities to engage with an international network of scholars, policymakers, and practitioners
The flexible funding structure ensures that both early-career researchers and established professionals can participate effectively.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
• Must be a postdoctoral researcher or an experienced professional in fields related to international affairs
• Academic Track applicants must hold a completed PhD and demonstrate a strong academic publication record
• Practitioner Track applicants must have substantial professional experience in areas such as policy, diplomacy, media, or civil society
• Must present a well-developed research or project proposal relevant to international affairs
• Must demonstrate the ability to contribute to interdisciplinary dialogue and policy-relevant research
Applicants from all countries are eligible to apply.
Required Documents
Applicants are required to submit the following documents:
• Completed online application form
• Letter of motivation
• Detailed project proposal (up to five pages), including research objectives, methodology, timeline, and expected outcomes
• Curriculum Vitae (maximum two pages)
• For Academic Track applicants:
– Copy of PhD certificate
– Full list of publications
– Two to three recent academic publications in English
All required documents must be compiled and submitted according to the programme guidelines.
Application Process / How to Apply
Applicants must submit their applications through the official online application system of the Academy of International Affairs North Rhine-Westphalia.
The process involves completing the application form and uploading all required documents in a single compiled file where specified. Candidates should ensure that their project proposal is original, clearly structured, and aligned with the chosen track.
Applications are evaluated by an academic board based on academic merit, professional experience, project quality, and relevance to international policy discussions.
Deadline
The application deadline for the AIA NRW Fellowship 2027–2028 is 31 May 2026. Successful applicants will be notified by mid-September 2026, with fellowships commencing between April 2027 and March 2028.
Apply Now: https://www.aia-nrw.org/en/application-online-form/
