Friedrich Wilhelm Bessel Research Award
The Friedrich Wilhelm Bessel Research Award supports outstanding international researchers to conduct collaborative research projects at German institutions for 6–12 months.
Funder: Alexander von Humboldt Foundation
Due Dates: Rolling (Nominations accepted any time; selection meetings in March and October)
Funding Amounts: €60,000 per award; approx. 20 awards/year; 6–12 month research stay in Germany (can be split into segments).
Summary: Recognizes internationally outstanding researchers from abroad to support collaborative research projects in Germany.
Key Information: Nomination by a German host required; nominees must have received their doctorate within the past 18 years.
Description
The Friedrich Wilhelm Bessel Research Award, funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research and administered by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, honors approximately 20 internationally recognized researchers from abroad each year. The award enables recipients to undertake a research project of their choice in collaboration with colleagues at a German research institution. The program aims to foster international academic collaboration and strengthen Germany’s position as a research hub. Awardees receive individualized support, access to language courses, and opportunities for ongoing collaboration and networking within the Humboldt community.
