The Gerda Henkel Foundation's General Research Grants support postdoctoral and senior scholars in the historical humanities to pursue independent, original research projects.
Funder: Gerda Henkel Foundation
Due Dates: November 20, 2026
Funding Amounts: €2,760/month (postdocs) or €3,720/month (senior scholars) for 1–24 months; family, travel, and material allowances available.
Summary: Supports postdoctoral and senior scholars in the historical humanities with full-time scholarships for independent research distinct from their PhD, plus optional travel and material aid.
Key Information: Only full-time, personal scholarships; no concurrent salary/pension; strict eligibility rules for prior applicants.
This program provides individual research scholarships to postdoctoral and senior scholars working in the historical humanities. The funding is intended to enable recipients to pursue independent research projects that are clearly differentiated from their doctoral work. Eligible disciplines include archaeology, history, historical Islamic studies, art history, history of law, prehistory and early history, and history of science. Interdisciplinary projects are welcome if they have a strong historical focus. In addition to the personal stipend, applicants may request support for travel and material expenses necessary for their research. The scholarships are designed to foster scholarly independence and innovation at a critical stage of academic careers.