DAAD GSSP Scholarships in Germany for PhD

Eligible Countries: Applicants must be from countries of the Global South.

Acceptable Course or Subjects: The scholarship will be awarded in the field of society and nature, related to biodiversity research.

Admissible Criteria: To be eligible, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

• Hold an above-average Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field.

• Show strong motivation for pursuing a PhD in integrative biodiversity research.

• Have not previously completed a PhD.

• Be proficient in English.

• Be a non-German citizen and must not have resided in Germany for more than 15 months prior to the application deadline.

• Have graduated no longer than six years before October 2025.

• Be committed to developing an independent research proposal aligned with one of the iDiv research groups.

• Candidates should plan for no more than 25% of their research time outside Germany.

Monthly stipend of EUR 1,400

Country-specific travel allowance

Health, accident, and liability insurance

Study and research allowance

Optional final grant for up to six months after the funding period

Access to iDiv’s research resources and yDiv’s structured PhD program

Opportunity to participate in international research networks and interdisciplinary training.

Submit your complete application via the yDiv application portal by 30 September 2025 (6:00 pm CET).

Required documents include:

• Research proposal (max. 2–3 pages)

• Research schedule with planned fieldwork or international stays

• Supervisor selection (from listed PhD project PIs)

• Letter of recommendation (DAAD template)

• CV

• Letter of motivation (max. 2 pages)

• Bachelor’s and Master’s degree certificates and transcripts

• Proof of English proficiency (optional but recommended)

• Certificates of internships or publications (optional)

Selected candidates will be invited for online interviews in October 2025.

Nominated applicants will then submit final documents to DAAD for final approval.