Researchers in the historical humanities can apply for funding from the Gerda Henkel Foundation for 2027. This General Research Grants Programme supports advanced research in history-related fields and is open to qualified scholars globally, focusing on the quality and historical relevance of projects rather than nationality or institutional affiliation.
Application Deadline:
- 20 November 2026
Tell Me About The Award:
The Gerda Henkel Foundation Research Scholarships support individual researchers in the Historical Humanities. Funding is intended to cover personal working hours, with optional travel and material expenses.
Which Fields are Eligible?
- Archaeology
- History
- Historical Islamic Studies
- Art History
- History of Law
- Prehistory & Early History
- History of Science
Applications from neighbouring disciplines are possible if the core research question is historically orientated.
Type:
- Research Scholarship | Historical Humanities | Germany-based Foundation
Who can apply?
Applicants must:
- Hold a PhD or habilitation (or equivalent qualification).
- Have completed their PhD within the last 10 years.
- Have published their PhD thesis.
- Propose a project clearly different from their PhD topic.
- Not be receiving a salary or pension during the scholarship.
- Not have resubmitted previously rejected projects.
- Wait at least 5 years after a prior Gerda Henkel scholarship before reapplying.
- Wait at least 3 years after a rejected application before reapplying.
How are applicants selected?
- Applications are reviewed by foundation committees twice yearly.
- Criteria include:
- Academic qualifications.
- Originality and relevance of the research project.
- Fit within historical humanities.
- Compliance with eligibility rules.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- Open internationally — nationality and location do not matter.
Where will the award be taken?
- Research can be conducted anywhere, no institutional affiliation required.
How Many Awards?
- Multiple scholarships awarded annually.
What is the benefit of the award?
- Full-time scholarship for 1–24 months.
- Optional support for:
- Family allowance.
- Endowment for scholarships abroad.
- Student assistants.
- Travel aid.
- Material aid.
How Long Will the Award Last?
- Minimum 1 month, maximum 24 months.
How to Apply:
- Select the correct application form (Research Scholarship, Research Project, or PhD Scholarship).
- Prepare documents including a CV, project proposal, and recommendation letter.
- Submit electronically via the Gerda Henkel Foundation portal by 20 November 2026.
- Await committee decision in April 2027.
🌐 Visit the Application Webpage for Details
