Heilbronn AI Fellowships 2026–2027: DAAD Research Fellowship in Germany for International AI Researchers
Overview
The Heilbronn AI Fellowship is a research programme funded by the German Academic Exchange Service that supports international PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers working in Artificial Intelligence and related disciplines. The programme provides an opportunity to conduct research stays lasting from 1 to 12 months at eligible host institutions located on the Bildungscampus Heilbronn in Germany. The fellowship aims to strengthen international collaboration, promote interdisciplinary cooperation between universities, research institutes, startups, and industry, and foster long-term international partnerships.
Who can apply
The programme is open to international PhD candidates in the final year before their dissertation defence and postdoctoral researchers who completed their doctorate within the last five years. Eligible applicants must have a strong academic background in Artificial Intelligence or a closely related field, an affiliation with a university or recognised research institution, and the intention to undertake a research project at an eligible host institution on the Bildungscampus Heilbronn. Applicants must demonstrate excellent academic achievements and strong research potential across disciplines such as machine learning, robotics, data science, computational intelligence, and human-centred AI.
What you get
Successful fellows receive a monthly fellowship stipend of €2,800, insurance coverage including health, accident, and personal liability insurance, and a lump-sum contribution toward international travel costs. For research stays exceeding six months, additional family benefits may be available subject to eligibility, and researchers with disabilities or chronic illnesses may apply for additional financial support to cover disability-related expenses. Fellows conduct their research at host institutions such as the DHBW Center for Advanced Studies, DHBW Heilbronn, Ferdinand-Steinbeis-Institute, Fraunhofer HNFIZ, Heilbronn University of Applied Sciences, and Technical University of Munich Campus Heilbronn.
How to apply
Applicants must prepare their research proposal jointly with their chosen host institution before submitting their application online through the DAAD Portal. Only one application may be submitted at a time, and all required documents must be uploaded before the deadline. Incomplete applications without appropriate explanations may not be considered.