The Alexander von Humboldt Foundation awards approximately 20 Friedrich Wilhelm Bessel Research Awards annually to internationally recognised scientists. Scientists who are already internationally recognised in their field, who completed their doctorate no more than 18 years ago and whose main place of residence and work is outside Germany at the time of nomination are eligible for the Friedrich Wilhelm Bessel Research Award. Nominations for the Friedrich Wilhelm Bessel Research Award can be initiated by established scientists at a research institution in Germany.
The award winners are honoured for their outstanding research achievements. They are invited to carry out research projects of their own choice in Germany in co-operation with specialist colleagues for a period of up to one year. The stay can be split up over time.
Requirements for nomination: International recognition of the nominee as an outstanding researcher, completion of a doctorate, good future expectations, reference reports from important cooperation partners/researchers; at the time of nomination, their centre of life and work has been abroad for at least five years; at the time of selection, they have not yet entered into a permanent employment contract in Germany.
Application Info
Self-nomination is not possible.
Submission
Nominations can be submitted at any time
Website
Duration
6-12 month
Countries
Germany
Level of education
Researcher with Ph.D.
Funding Types
awards
Budget
60.000 €
Last update
30.01.2026