For early-career scholars in international relations, foreign policy, and global economics, finding the perfect postdoctoral position can be a challenge. You need funding, institutional prestige, and the intellectual freedom to pursue your research. The DAAD Postdoctoral Fellowship at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) offers exactly that—a golden opportunity to spend a year at one of the world’s top policy schools, funded by Germany’s premier academic exchange service.
If you’re aiming to deepen your expertise in transatlantic relations, European studies, or comparative foreign policy, this fellowship could be your ideal next step. Let’s break down everything you need to know for the 2026-2027 cycle.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Fellowship Name | DAAD Postdoctoral Fellowship at Johns Hopkins SAIS |
| Host University | Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) |
| Location | Washington, D.C., USA |
| Funding | Fully Funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) |
| Duration | 12 months (Academic Year 2026-2027) |
| Application Deadline | April 30, 2025 |
| Target Group | Postdoctoral Researchers (see eligibility below) |
What is the DAAD Postdoctoral Fellowship at SAIS?
This prestigious fellowship is a cooperative program between the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and Johns Hopkins SAIS. It is designed to support postdoctoral scholars conducting research relevant to transatlantic relations. Fellows are integrated into the SAIS academic community, contributing to research initiatives, participating in seminars, and having the chance to publish their work.
Why Should You Apply? The Benefits & Value
This is more than just a grant; it’s a career accelerator. Here’s what you receive as a fellow:
- Generous Financial Support: A monthly stipend of €3,600, which is tailored to your academic level.
- Travel Allowances: Coverage for round-trip airfare from Germany to the U.S.
- Comprehensive Insurance: Includes health, accident, and liability insurance for the fellowship period.
- Family Support: Additional monthly allowance if you are accompanied by your spouse and/or children.
- Academic Prestige: Affiliation with Johns Hopkins SAIS, a globally recognized leader in international affairs.
- Research Freedom: Dedicated time and access to world-class resources to advance your postdoctoral project.
- Network Access: Immersion in the Washington, D.C. policy and academic community, with unparalleled networking opportunities.
Who is Eligible to Apply?
To ensure your application is considered, you must meet these core criteria:
- Nationality: You must be a German national.
- Academic Status: You should be a postdoctoral researcher or a young faculty member at a German university or research institute.
- Research Focus: Your proposed research must be in International Relations, Political Science, Economics, History, or a related field, with a clear connection to transatlantic relations.
- Timing: The fellowship is intended for those early in their post-PhD career trajectory.
How to Apply: A Step-by-Step Guide
Missing a document is the quickest way to disqualification. Follow this checklist:
Step 1: Prepare Your Core Documents.
You will typically need:
- A detailed research proposal (5-7 pages) outlining your project’s significance, methodology, and relevance to SAIS.
- A compelling curriculum vitae (CV) in tabular form.
- A complete list of your publications.
- Proof of your doctoral degree (copy of certificate).
- Two confidential letters of recommendation from academic referees.
- A timeline and work plan for the fellowship year.
Step 2: Coordinate with SAIS.
This is critical. You must secure a formal endorsement from a SAIS faculty member who agrees to mentor you and support your research during the fellowship. Start reaching out to potential mentors well before the deadline.
Step 3: Submit via the DAAD Portal.
All applications must be submitted electronically through the DAAD online portal. Do not send materials directly to SAIS.
For more information, visit DAAD Fellows.
📅 Deadline Alert: All steps, including faculty endorsement and portal submission, must be complete by January 14, 2026 .
Tips for a Winning Application (Human Advice)
- Start Early, Especially with Mentors: Finding the right SAIS faculty sponsor takes time. Research SAIS departments and professors whose work aligns with yours and craft personalized, respectful outreach emails.
- Nail the Research Proposal: Clearly articulate how your research fits SAIS’s strengths and contributes to transatlantic dialogue. Be specific about what you plan to achieve during the fellowship year.
- Demonstrate Impact: Think beyond your thesis. How will this fellowship help you grow as a scholar? How will your research contribute to the broader field and the SAIS community?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ Section for SEO)
Q: Can I apply if I am not a German citizen?
A: No, this specific DAAD-funded fellowship is exclusively for German nationals. However, Johns Hopkins SAIS offers other fellowship opportunities for international scholars.
Q: Is proficiency in German required?
A: The primary language of research and interaction at SAIS is English. Your application materials and research must be in English.
Q: What is the selection criteria?
A: The selection committee evaluates the quality and feasibility of the research proposal, the applicant’s academic qualifications and publications, the relevance to SAIS’s focus areas, and the strength of the faculty endorsement.
Q: Can the fellowship be extended?
A: The standard award is for 12 months and is typically non-renewable under this program.
Conclusion and Final Call to Action
The DAAD Postdoctoral Fellowship at Johns Hopkins SAIS represents a unique convergence of funding, academic excellence, and location. It is an investment in your future as a thought leader in international relations.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, don’t let this opportunity pass. The April 2025 deadline will arrive sooner than you think.
Your Next Steps:
- Bookmark the official DAAD call for applications: [Search for “DAAD Postdoctoral Fellows Johns Hopkins SAIS” on the DAAD website].
- Visit the Johns Hopkins SAIS website to research faculty and departments.
- Begin drafting your research proposal and reach out to potential mentors this week.
Good luck with your application
Sources & Disclaimer:
This post is based on information from the official Opportunity Desk announcement and the DAAD/SAIS partnership. Always refer to the official DAAD website and Johns Hopkins SAIS pages for the most current and authoritative information before applying.
