What Is the DAAD PRIME Fellowship?
The DAAD PRIME (Postdoctoral Researchers International Mobility Experience) is one of Germany’s most prestigious fellowship programs for postdoctoral researchers.
Funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), it supports early-career scholars who want to gain international research experience while maintaining strong links with German universities.
The program enables fellows to work both abroad and in Germany, giving them the chance to develop global collaborations and strengthen their academic careers.
Overview of the DAAD PRIME 2025 Fellowship
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | DAAD PRIME Fellowship 2025 |
| Host Country | Germany + one international host country |
| Duration | 18 months (12 months abroad + 6 months in Germany) |
| Employment Type | Full-time contract with a German university |
| Funding Agencies | DAAD & BMBF |
| Fields of Research | All disciplines (Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, Engineering) |
| Application Deadline | Expected: October 29, 2025 |
| Fellowship Period | June – November 2026 start window |
Key Benefits of the DAAD PRIME Fellowship
The PRIME Fellowship goes beyond financial support — it provides a secure employment framework and professional visibility within international research networks.
Benefits include:
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Full-time employment contract with a German university
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12-month international research stay and 6-month reintegration phase in Germany
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Competitive salary based on German pay scale (TV-L 13)
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Mobility allowance for the international phase
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Health insurance and social-security coverage via the employing institution
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Networking opportunities with DAAD alumni and European research consortia
Fellows receive a German salary while conducting research abroad — ensuring stability and continuity during the international phase.
Why Apply for DAAD PRIME 2025?
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Build strong international research partnerships
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Strengthen your long-term academic career in Germany
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Gain exposure to world-class labs, mentors, and universities
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Become part of the global DAAD network of researchers
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Enhance your academic profile with one of Germany’s top fellowships
Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, make sure you meet the following requirements:
1️⃣ You must hold a PhD/Doctorate (completed before the deadline).
2️⃣ The PhD should have been obtained within the last six years.
3️⃣ Both German and international (EU and non-EU) researchers are eligible.
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Non-EU applicants must have earned their PhD from a German institution.
4️⃣ You must not have lived in your chosen host country for more than 12 months in the past 3 years.
5️⃣ Your German host university must agree to employ you full-time and submit an official support declaration.
Who Can Apply?
The program welcomes applications from all research fields, including:
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Humanities & Social Sciences
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Natural & Life Sciences
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Engineering & Technology
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Environmental and Earth Sciences
It’s ideal for researchers who want to:
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Establish international collaborations
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Conduct cutting-edge research abroad
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Return to Germany for long-term career growth
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1 – Identify Two Host Institutions
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One abroad: For the 12-month research phase
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One in Germany: For the 6-month reintegration phase
Step 2 – Prepare Your Documents
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Research proposal (max 10 pages)
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Curriculum Vitae + publication list
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PhD certificate
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Letters of invitation from both host institutions
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Declaration of commitment from the German host
Step 3 – Submit Online via DAAD Portal
Once the call opens, complete your application and upload all files to the official DAAD Application Portal.
Step 4 – Obtain Endorsement from German Host
Your German host university must confirm in writing that they will employ you during the fellowship period.
Step 5 – Wait for Selection Results
Applications are peer-reviewed and evaluated by a DAAD academic panel.
Successful candidates are usually notified in early 2026.
Important Dates (Expected Timeline)
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | 29 October 2025 |
| Results Announced | March 2026 |
| Orientation Workshop | March / April 2026 |
| Fellowship Start | 1 June – 1 November 2026 |
Selection Criteria
DAAD evaluates applications based on:
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Scientific quality of the research proposal
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Academic excellence and publication record
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Relevance of chosen host institutions
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Long-term collaboration potential
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Motivation and career development plan
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Commitment from the German host university
The committee looks for researchers who show potential to become leaders in academia and international cooperation.
Tips for a Successful Application
✅ Choose a unique and feasible research topic with clear impact.
✅ Emphasize why international mobility is essential for your project.
✅ Demonstrate strong links between your German and foreign hosts.
✅ Highlight previous international collaborations.
✅ Keep your proposal clear, concise, and well-structured.
✅ Review your documents multiple times before submission.
Official Source
DAAD PRIME Fellowship – Official Information
Final Thoughts
The DAAD PRIME 2025 Fellowship is a golden opportunity for postdoctoral researchers who want to bridge international experience with German academic excellence.
It not only funds your research but also ensures career stability, a German employment contract, and a strong network of global experts.
If you’re a motivated researcher aiming to grow globally while staying connected to Germany’s innovation ecosystem — DAAD PRIME 2025 is for you. ✨