DFG Research Centres
The DFG Research Centres programme funds innovative, interdisciplinary research centres at German universities to advance high-impact science and foster collaboration across disciplines and institutions.
Funder: German Research Foundation
Due Dates (Anticipated): November 2026 (project draft submission; annual programme call, projected)
Funding Amounts: Up to ~€5 million per year per centre; maximum funding duration is 12 years.
Summary: Supports the establishment of internationally competitive, interdisciplinary research centres at German universities to strengthen research profiles and foster collaboration.
Key Information: This is a forecasted call; all dates are projected and subject to confirmation.
Description
The DFG Research Centres programme is a strategic initiative by the German Research Foundation to establish a select number of internationally visible and competitive research centres at German universities. These centres are designed to serve as focal points for innovative, interdisciplinary research, enhancing the university’s research profile and supporting its strategic development. The programme provides substantial funding for new professorships, independent junior research groups, and associated resources, with the aim of fostering collaboration across disciplines and institutions, including potential partnerships with industry.
Research Centres are established through thematic calls, typically issued annually, and are intended to create temporary, high-impact research priorities. The programme places strong emphasis on supporting early-career researchers and offers a robust framework for networking and institutional cooperation.
