Helmholtz Investigator Groups
The Helmholtz Investigator Groups program funds early-career scientists to establish independent research groups at Helmholtz Centers in Germany, supporting innovative research and leadership development.
Funder: Helmholtz Association
Due Dates (Anticipated): September 2026 (university statement submission) | January 2027 (internal pre-selection at AWI & DESY) | February 2027 (internal pre-selection at DZNE, Forschungszentrum Jülich, HZB, HZDR, Hereon, HMGU, GFZ, KIT) | April 2027 (full application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Minimum €350,000/year for 5 years (up to €200,000/year from Helmholtz INF, €150,000/year co-funding from center/university); permanent position possible after positive evaluation.
Summary: Supports outstanding early-career researchers in establishing independent research groups at Helmholtz Centers with structured leadership training and university collaboration.
Key Information: All dates are projected; verify with the program page for the latest updates.
Description
The Helmholtz Investigator Groups program is designed to support outstanding early-career scientists (2–6 years post-PhD) from around the world in achieving early scientific independence. Selected group leaders will establish and lead their own research group at a Helmholtz Center in Germany, typically in close partnership with a German university. The program provides substantial financial support, structured leadership training through the Helmholtz Leadership Academy, and clear pathways to a permanent position upon successful evaluation. The initiative aims to foster the next generation of scientific leaders, promote innovative research, and strengthen collaborations between Helmholtz Centers and universities.
