Study in Germany | The HIIG Internet and Society Fellowship 2026
For researchers interrogating the critical intersection of technology, democracy, and knowledge, a premier opportunity for immersive study in Europe is now open. The Alexander von Humboldt Institute for Internet and Society has launched its Internet and Society Fellowship for 2026, inviting global scholars to Berlin for a six-week, in-person research residency. This intensive program provides a vibrant intellectual community for developing ideas that address how democratic societies evolve in the digital age.
An Immersive, Collaborative Research Residency
This fellowship offers a dedicated, on-the-ground experience within one of Europe’s leading digital society research centers. Key features include:
- Fully In-Person Engagement: A structured residency in Berlin running from 1 June to 18 July 2026.
- Focused Research Sprint: A mandatory, collaborative one-week intensive on the annual theme, “Democratic Change and Knowledge.”
- Academic Community & Visibility: Direct collaboration with an international cohort of fellows and HIIG senior researchers, plus opportunities to publish through open-access platforms and the institute’s Digital Society Blog.
- Logistical Support: Coverage of office space fees and institutional backing for collaborative workshop formats.
Important Note: This is an unpaid fellowship. HIIG provides extensive academic infrastructure and networking support, but fellows are responsible for covering their own travel, accommodation, and living expenses in Berlin.
Who Is the Ideal Fellow?
The 2026 cohort seeks engaged scholars whose work directly confronts contemporary democratic challenges. You are an excellent candidate if you are:
- A Junior Fellow (Master’s holder with a PhD in progress/planned) or a Senior Fellow (advanced PhD candidate or postdoctoral researcher).
- Conducting research in relevant fields like political science, law, sociology, or media studies with a clear focus on the annual theme.
- Proficient in English and possess a concrete, promising research idea to develop during the residency.
- Eager to contribute to and learn from a dynamic, interdisciplinary dialogue.
The Application Process
Applying requires a concise and purposeful submission via the official HIIG form. You must prepare:
- A current academic CV.
- A one-page motivation letter detailing your research background, specific interest in HIIG, and what you hope to gain from the fellowship.
- A one-page research idea outline that explicitly connects your proposed work to the “Democratic Change and Knowledge” theme and describes your expected outcomes.
- An optional writing or work sample in English or German.
Selection prioritizes the strength and relevance of your research idea, your thematic alignment, and your potential to enrich the institute’s interdisciplinary community.
How to Apply
Key Application Deadline
The final deadline to submit your complete application is 31 January 2026. Given the competitive and thematic nature of the fellowship, dedicating time to refining your research proposal is highly recommended.
How to Craft a Competitive Application
Your research outline is central to your application. It should present a clear, feasible six-week project with a well-defined research question and explain why HIIG’s resources and community are essential to it. Your motivation letter must show a strong understanding of HIIG’s work and how you will actively contribute to its collaborative culture.
The HIIG Internet and Society Fellowship offers a unique opportunity to deepen your research within a global network of digital society scholars. A focused, well-aligned application that highlights your research vision and commitment to democratic change will strengthen your chances. For full details and to apply, visit the HIIG Call for Applications page.
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