Research Units - German Research Foundation
DFG Research Units fund collaborative teams in Germany to pursue ambitious, coordinated scientific projects that go beyond the capacity of individual grants.
Funder: German Research Foundation
Due Dates: Rolling (draft and establishment proposals can be submitted at any time)
Funding Amounts: Up to 8 years of support (two 4-year periods); funding covers personnel, material resources, and coordination; typical Research Unit includes fewer than 10 projects.
Summary: Supports collaborative, medium-term research teams in Germany pursuing ambitious, coordinated projects beyond the scope of individual grants.
Key Information: Draft and establishment proposals accepted year-round; consult DFG early for planning.
Description
The Research Units programme of the German Research Foundation (DFG) funds close, medium-term collaborations of outstanding researchers working together on a defined research topic. These units are designed to achieve ambitious scientific goals that exceed what is possible with individual grants. The programme emphasizes flexibility in network structure, supports early career researchers, promotes equity and diversity, and encourages collaboration with non-university and international partners. Research Units can be integrated into larger research policy initiatives and are expected to foster new research directions.
