DAAD GROW – Global Research Opportunities for the South

The DAAD GROW – Global Research Opportunities for the South programme offers short research stays and cooperation visits in Germany for early career researchers and established academics from the Global South, with a primary focus on Sub-Saharan Africa, as well as Latin America and Asia. The programme is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), supporting research and cooperation projects that address global challenges in areas such as public health, education, climate, governance, social inclusion, and innovation systems.

Eligible applicants include doctoral candidates (PhD started within the last 3 years), postdoctoral researchers (PhD completed within the last 4 years), and established academics employed at a university or research institute in their home country (OECD DAC list). Women, socioeconomically disadvantaged individuals, and those from disadvantaged regions or groups are especially encouraged to apply. Applicants must not be already in Germany or conducting their entire PhD/postdoc at a German institution, and must not have resided in Germany for more than 15 months at the application deadline.

The programme features two lines: (1) Preparatory & Cooperation Visits (1–2 months) for developing joint research projects, publications, and funding proposals, and (2) Research Stays (2–6 months) for carrying out independent, development-relevant research projects with a clear transfer plan back home. All stays must be continuous, start in 2026, and end by January 31, 2027. Conference travel is not funded.

Funding includes monthly scholarship payments of €1,400 for doctoral candidates and postdocs, €2,000 for assistant professors/lecturers, and €2,150 for full professors. Additional benefits include health, accident, and liability insurance, travel allowance, and possible extra support for disability or chronic illness. Funding is subject to final approval by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), and scholarships cannot be extended beyond January 31, 2027.

Applicants are selected based on academic qualifications, the quality and development relevance of their proposal, the potential for sustainable impact, and their ability to integrate results into their home institution. Equal opportunities are emphasized throughout the selection process.

To apply, review the official DAAD GROW programme details, prepare the required documents, and submit your application via the DAAD portal. Check the DAAD website for the most current deadline and further instructions. This opportunity is ideal for researchers aiming to strengthen their research skills, build international networks, and contribute to development-relevant research aligned with the SDGs.