The Philipp Franz von Siebold Award honors top Japanese researchers for advancing German-Japanese cultural understanding, supporting collaborative research projects and academic exchange in Germany.
Funder: Alexander von Humboldt Foundation
Due Dates (Anticipated): January 2027 (Nomination submission deadline to DAAD Regional Office, Tokyo)
Funding Amounts: €80,000 award; research stay in Germany (6–12 months, flexible duration); travel and language course costs covered.
Summary: Recognizes renowned Japanese researchers for outstanding contributions to German-Japanese cultural understanding, supporting research and collaboration in Germany.
Key Information: Only nominations (no self-nominations); nominees should be no older than 50 and must have lived and worked in Japan for at least five years.
The Philipp Franz von Siebold Award, established by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, honors distinguished Japanese researchers from any discipline who have made exceptional contributions to mutual understanding between German and Japanese culture and society. The award recognizes lifetime academic achievement and fosters closer academic ties by inviting the laureate to conduct a self-designed research project at a German institution, working collaboratively with local colleagues. In addition to the €80,000 award, recipients receive individualized support, access to events, and the opportunity to participate in language courses during their stay. The program aims to support the ongoing careers and future collaborations of awardees as part of the Humboldt Foundation alumni network.