The American Academy in Berlin welcomes applications from a broad range of disciplines in the humanities, social sciences, law, journalism, and various areas of public policy. It also generally encourage projects that address pressing issues of the day, such as democracy, security, technology and society (especially AI), energy (including climate), and global order. Dedicated fellowships are also available to support projects in Jewish studies, German studies, and public health and biotechnology. While project proposals need not focus on topics related to Germany, candidates should explain how a residency in Berlin would enhance their work.
The Academy invites visual artists and composers via separate, nomination-based competitions.
Table of Content
Summary
- Application DeadlineNot Specified
- Study LevelPostdoctoral Fellowships
- SponsorAmerican Academy in Berlin
- Eligible CountryAll Countries
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Benefits
Berlin Prize Fellows receive
- Monthly stipends of $5000
- Roundtrip airfare
- Accommodation at or near the Hans Arnhold Center
- Partial board, and access to in-house library services and professional networking opportunities.
- Fellows present their work to audiences in and around Berlin via lectures, readings, public discussions, performances, and film screenings. They should also be willing to engage with relevant German institutions, organizations, and the media. These activities are integral to the Academy’s mission of fostering transatlantic dialogue.
Requirements
- The Academy welcomes applications from a broad range of disciplines in the humanities, social sciences, law, journalism, and various areas of public policy. Berlin Prize recipients include both established and emerging scholars, writers, artists, journalists, and policy experts who wish to engage in independent study within an interdisciplinary residential community. Emerging scholars should hold a PhD and a strong record of peer-reviewed work beyond the dissertation. The Academy will not consider projects that have not advanced significantly beyond the candidate’s dissertation project. Independent scholars who satisfy the general eligibility requirements are welcome to apply.
- Applicants working in most other fields—such as journalism, filmmaking, or public policy—must have a significant record of publication or production. Writers of fiction and nonfiction must have published at least one book with a reputable press at the time of application.
- Please note that we do not accept project proposals in mathematics or the natural sciences, and that we select visual artists and composers through invitation-only competitions.
- Fellowships are restricted to citizens and permanent residents of the United States. Candidates must explain any limited periods spent outside the United States, such as sabbaticals or foreign assignments.
- While project proposals need not focus on topics related to Germany, candidates should explain how a residency in Berlin would enhance their work.
- The Academy accepts proposals for collaborative projects. Candidates who wish to pursue a joint project must submit separate applications. External reviewers will consider the merits of each candidate alongside their joint project.
- Previously unsuccessful candidates are welcome to reapply. We strongly encourage re-applicants to update their application materials and revise their project proposals substantially. A number of Academy fellows have applied more than once before selection.
- Individuals who have already received a Berlin Prize are not eligible to apply for another, except under exceptional circumstances.
If you are uncertain about your eligibility, please contact the Academy’s Fellows Selection team at [email protected].
Application Deadline
Not SpecifiedHow To Apply
For more information, kindly visit the American Academy webpage.