The South Asia Institute (SAI) at Heidelberg University, in partnership with the Max Weber Forum for South Asian Studies (MWF Delhi), is now accepting applications for its three-month joint fellowship program.
South Asia Institute, Heidelberg University & Max Weber Forum for South Asian Studies, Delhi
Location: Heidelberg, Germany
Fellowship Duration: October – December 2025
Application Deadline: 4 June 2025
This opportunity is open to early-career researchers (3–5 years post-PhD) from India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, or Bangladesh who wish to develop collaborative research with SAI faculty in the fields of:
- Ethnology
- History
- Political Science
- Economics
- Geography
- South Asian Languages and Literatures
- Cultural or Religious History of South Asia
What the Fellowship Offers
- Travel allowance of up to €1,500 (international airfare)
- Monthly stipend of €1,200
- Rent coverage during your stay in Heidelberg
- Visa assistance (if needed)
- Access to academic events and the research environment at SAI
The fellowship aims to help scholars develop a concrete third-party funding proposal (e.g., for research grants, exchange programs, or academic events) in collaboration with SAI.
How to Apply
To apply, submit the following documents (in English) in a single PDF file to: scholarship@mwsindia.org by 4 June 2025:
- Cover letter (max. 1 page)
- CV including a complete list of publications
- PhD certificate
- Project proposal (max. 2,000 words), outlining your research idea and intended collaboration
- Names of two referees who are willing to provide references
Selection results will be announced by the end of June 2025.
Questions?
Contact: Dr. Martin Gieselmann – gieselmann@sai.uni-heidelberg.de
View full details on the official SAI website.
This is a unique opportunity to spend time at one of Europe’s leading research institutes for South Asian Studies, build international academic partnerships, and take the next step in your research career. Early-career scholars are especially encouraged to apply.
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