Einstein Fellowship Program 2026: Cultivating Next-Generation Thinkers

The Einstein Forum and the Wittenstein Foundation invite exceptional young minds to apply for a prestigious fellowship, supporting interdisciplinary research projects that venture beyond their existing areas of expertise.

The fellowship aims to empower innovative thinkers who, like Albert Einstein, embody a unique blend of expertise in their field and a willingness to explore interdisciplinary connections, fostering groundbreaking research and creative problem-solving.

Upon completing the fellowship, the recipient will deliver a public lecture on their project at both the Einstein Forum and the Wittenstein Foundation.

The Einstein Fellowship is designed for innovative projects, not for continuing or completing existing academic research. A strong application will showcase:

Originality and quality of the proposed project
Project feasibility
Applicant's exceptional intellectual abilities

PhD status is irrelevant; the fellowship supports groundbreaking ideas. The project may extend beyond the fellowship period, serving as a foundation for future research.

IMPORTANT: NO FELLOWSHIPS WILL BE AWARDED FOR DISSERTATION RESEARCH. THE PROPOSED PROJECT MUST DEMONSTRATE A SUBSTANTIAL DEPARTURE FROM THE APPLICANT'S PREVIOUS WORK IN TERMS OF CONTENT, IDEALLY ALSO FIELD AND FORMAT.

2026 Einstein Fellowship Program at a Glance

Award Type: Prestigious Fellowship
Host Location: Caputh, Brandenburg, Germany
Supported by: Einstein Forum and Wittenstein Foundation
Eligible Applicants: Global (all countries)
Program Duration: 5-6 months
Fellowship Benefits: Travel cost reimbursement, €10,000 stipend, Complimentary accommodation
Application Deadline: May 15, 2025

Criteria

Candidates must be under 35 and hold a university degree in the humanities, in the social sciences, or in the natural sciences.

2026 Einstein Fellowship Program Perks

The fellowship offers a unique residential experience, providing accommodation for 5-6 months in a charming garden cottage at Einstein's former summer home in Caputherford, Brandenburg. This tranquil setting is conveniently located near top academic institutions in Potsdam and Berlin.
The fellow will receive a stipend of EUR 10,000 and reimbursement of travel expenses.

Application Documents