Open Call: CAPES-Humboldt Research Fellowship Programme (Brazil)

Deadline: 29-May-2026

The CAPES-Humboldt Research Fellowship enables Brazilian postdoctoral and experienced researchers to conduct independent research in Germany. The program emphasizes academic excellence, diversity, and international collaboration while providing comprehensive financial, logistical, and family support. Applications are assessed on academic merit, originality, and future research potential.

Overview

The CAPES-Humboldt Research Fellowship is a prestigious joint program by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation and CAPES (Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior). It allows Brazilian researchers to collaborate with German research institutions, pursue independent research projects, and strengthen global academic networks. The program welcomes applicants from all disciplines, promotes gender balance and diversity, and supports original research with high academic potential.

Who is Eligible?

Postdoctoral Researchers

• Completed doctorate within the last four years

• Eligible for research stays lasting 6–24 months

Experienced Researchers

• Completed doctorate within the last 12 years

• Eligible for research stays lasting 6–18 months

• Must demonstrate a clearly defined independent academic profile

Additional Requirements

• Applicants must choose their research topic independently

• Must secure a host institution in Germany before applying

• Fellowship may be divided into up to three visits, minimum three months each

• Entire fellowship must be completed within 36 months (or 48 months if extended)

• Short-term visits for conferences or training are not eligible

Why It Matters

The CAPES-Humboldt Fellowship advances both individual and institutional research goals. It:

• Promotes international research cooperation between Brazil and Germany

• Encourages high-impact, innovative research across disciplines

• Supports academic career growth for early- and mid-career researchers

• Enhances the global visibility of Brazilian research

Fellowship Benefits

Financial Support

• Monthly stipend: EUR 2,700 (postdoctoral), EUR 3,200 (experienced researchers)

• CAPES contributes EUR 2,100–2,300 per month

• Additional support covers medical insurance, initial allowance, travel costs

• Alexander von Humboldt Foundation covers remaining funds and provides mobility allowance

Family and Personal Support

• Intensive German language course (2–4 months) for fellows and partners

• Benefits for single parents, childcare, or maternity-related extensions

• Support for researchers with disabilities or chronic illnesses

Research Flexibility

• Limited research stays outside Germany allowed if essential to the project

• Host institutions may receive monthly research allowance for project costs

How to Apply

Step 1: Define Your Research Plan

• Choose a research topic independently

• Prepare a detailed proposal including objectives, methodology, timeline, and visit divisions

Step 2: Secure a Host Institution

• Identify a German research institution

• Obtain written agreement from a host academic mentor

• Ensure access to necessary facilities and resources

Step 3: Prepare Application Documents

• Research proposal and host agreement

• Curriculum vitae and key publications

• Letters of recommendation (if requested)

Step 4: Submit the Application

• Submit to CAPES and Alexander von Humboldt Foundation

• Confirm compliance with eligibility and deadlines

Evaluation Criteria

Applications are assessed solely on academic merit:

• Academic performance and achievements

• Quality and impact of key publications

• Originality and feasibility of proposed research

• Future academic potential

Experienced researchers must additionally demonstrate an independent academic profile. Final decisions are made by a multidisciplinary selection committee based on available funding.

Common Tips and Mistakes

• Tip: Start early discussions with potential German hosts to secure agreements

• Tip: Clearly demonstrate the originality and feasibility of your project

• Mistake: Submitting without a host agreement

• Mistake: Proposing short-term visits for conferences rather than research

• Mistake: Ignoring postdoctoral or experienced researcher eligibility timeframes

FAQs

1. Can research be conducted outside Germany? Limited external research stays are allowed if essential to the project, subject to approval.
2. Is German language proficiency required? No, an intensive 2–4 month German course is provided.
3. Can I bring my family? Yes, language courses are available for partners, and family-related support is provided.
4. How can the fellowship be divided? Up to three visits, each lasting at least three months.
5. Which disciplines are eligible? All academic disciplines are accepted; interdisciplinary and innovative research is encouraged.
6. What costs are covered? Monthly stipend, insurance, travel, mobility allowance, and research costs at host institutions.
7. How are applications evaluated? Through a peer review process assessing merit, originality, and research potential.

Conclusion

The CAPES-Humboldt Research Fellowship provides a unique opportunity for Brazilian postdoctoral and experienced researchers to advance their careers in Germany. With comprehensive financial, logistical, and family support, the program fosters international collaboration, promotes academic excellence, and enables researchers to conduct innovative, high-impact projects. Securing a host institution, preparing a strong research plan, and leveraging available benefits are essential for maximizing the fellowship’s impact.

For more information, visit Alexander von Humboldt Foundation.