Research Training Groups
The DFG Research Training Groups program funds university-led, structured doctoral research programs in Germany, emphasizing innovation, interdisciplinary science, and international collaboration.
Funder: German Research Foundation
Due Dates: Rolling (draft and establishment proposals accepted any time) | Next committee meetings: May 29, 2026 & November 13, 2026 (decisions)
Funding Amounts: Up to 9 years per group; total program budget ~€297 million/year; individual doctoral funding up to 48 months; includes posts, travel, workshops, etc.
Summary: Structured funding for university-led doctoral research programs to train early career researchers, with strong emphasis on innovation and international collaboration.
Key Information: Two-stage proposal process; interdisciplinary and international approaches encouraged; open to universities and eligible applied sciences institutions.
Description
This program supports the establishment and operation of Research Training Groups (RTGs) at universities and equivalent institutions in Germany. RTGs are designed to promote the qualification and early independence of doctoral researchers through structured research and training programs, often with interdisciplinary and international collaboration. The program emphasizes innovative research, advanced supervision, and integration of visiting researchers, aiming to prepare doctoral researchers for complex academic and scientific careers.
