DAAD PRIME Fellowship | Fully Funded 2026

DAAD PRIME Fellowship

The DAAD PRIME Fellowship 2026, offered by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), is a prestigious fully funded program designed for postdoctoral researchers seeking international mobility and collaboration. This opportunity combines a research stay abroad with a return phase at a German university, enabling participants to strengthen both their global and local academic networks. Applications for the 2025/26 round open in late 2025, with research placements beginning between June and November 2026.

Overview of the DAAD PRIME Fellowship

The PRIME program — Postdoctoral Researchers International Mobility Experience — supports highly qualified postdoctoral scholars from all disciplines. It is unique in offering a full salary instead of a stipend, ensuring researchers enjoy stable employment and social security benefits during their fellowship. Fellows are hosted by a German university, which manages their employment contract and salary payments, even during their research stay abroad.

Program Objectives

• Promote international mobility of postdoctoral researchers.
• Encourage reintegration into the German research landscape.
• Enhance career prospects through global collaborations.

Benefits of the DAAD PRIME Fellowship 2026

• Full salary based on German public sector pay scales (TV-L E13 or E14).
• 12 months research abroad plus 6 months reintegration phase in Germany.
• Travel allowance for the fellow and eligible family members.
• Support for visa applications and relocation logistics.
• Integration into DAAD’s vast alumni network.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the DAAD PRIME Fellowship 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Hold a PhD or complete it before the start date.
• Have not lived or worked in the planned host country abroad for more than 12 months in the last 3 years.
• Provide a clear research proposal agreed upon with both the German and international host institutions.
• Demonstrate strong academic track record and publications.
• Be willing to spend 12 months abroad and 6 months in Germany.

Application Process

Applications for the DAAD PRIME Fellowship 2026 will open in late summer 2025. Candidates must submit their documents through the DAAD application portal. Required materials include:

• Completed online application form.
• Detailed research proposal.
• CV with publication list.
• Letter of invitation from the host institution abroad.
• Commitment letter from the German host university.
• References from academic mentors.

Selection will take place in February 2026, and successful applicants may start their fellowship between 1 June 2026 and 1 November 2026.

Important Dates for DAAD PRIME Fellowship 2026

• Application opening: Late summer 2025.
• Deadline: Expected in autumn 2025.
• Selection meeting: February 2026.
• Start of fellowship: Between June and November 2026.

Why Choose DAAD PRIME?

Unlike many postdoctoral fellowships, the DAAD PRIME Fellowship offers full employment with social benefits, making it particularly attractive for researchers with families. Its structure fosters both international exposure and long-term integration into the German academic system, enhancing career prospects significantly.

Official Information

For the most accurate and updated details, please refer to the DAAD PRIME official page.

Related Opportunities

• DAAD Scholarships
• Postdoctoral Fellowships

FAQs about DAAD PRIME Fellowship 2026

Question: What is the duration of the DAAD PRIME Fellowship?

Answer: The fellowship lasts 18 months — 12 months abroad followed by 6 months in Germany.

Question: Does DAAD PRIME provide a stipend or a salary?

Answer: PRIME offers a full salary according to German public service pay scales, not a stipend.

Question: Can non-EU citizens apply?

Answer: Yes. Researchers of any nationality can apply, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.

Question: Is there a specific research field required?

Answer: No. The program is open to all disciplines, but the proposal must be of high academic merit.

Conclusion

Apply for the DAAD PRIME Fellowship 2026 to advance your research career through a unique blend of international mobility and reintegration into the German academic community. With a full salary, extensive support, and access to a global network, this opportunity is ideal for ambitious postdoctoral researchers seeking long-term academic success.