The Kohli Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026 is one of the most prestigious research opportunities in Europe, offering outstanding researchers from around the world a unique opportunity to develop their scientific projects in a world-class academic environment. This fellowship is not just a research stay; it is a comprehensive scientific experience that combines academic immersion, international networking, and career building in the field of sociology and advanced social sciences.
Kohli Fellowship Fellowship Overview
The Kohli Postdoctoral Fellowship is offered by the Kohli Sociology Foundation in honor of Professor Martin Kohli, one of the world’s most prominent sociologists. This fellowship aims to support young researchers who have recently completed their doctoral degrees with outstanding results, enabling them to expand their research and engage with the international academic community.
The fellowship is held for two full years at one of two leading research centres in Europe:
- Berlin Centre for Social Sciences (WZB) in Germany.
- European University Institute (EUI) in Florence, Italy.
Fellowship objectives
The fellowship aims to support innovative researchers in the fields of sociology and related social sciences, and encourage them to:
- Launching new and independent research projects.
- Building an international academic network.
- Contributing to global social issues.
- Develop their research and teaching skills through academic activities and workshops.
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Financial and academic benefits
The Kohli Foundation Fellowship is a unique opportunity with full funding covering all essential aspects. Fellows receive:
- Full funding for two years to cover living and accommodation expenses.
- Providing access to research facilities and academic infrastructure at host institutions.
- Specialized academic supervision by leading experts in the field of sociology.
- Opportunities to publish research in prestigious scientific journals.
- Possibility of participating in international conferences and workshops to enhance scientific cooperation.
- A stimulating academic environment that encourages creativity and free scientific discussion.
Host academic institutions
1. Berlin Center for Social Sciences (WZB) – Germany
It is considered one of the largest research centers in Europe, focusing on the study of social, political, and economic changes in modern societies.
It allows fellows to:
- Join multidisciplinary research teams.
- Participation in international seminars and research events.
- Conduct field research and publish their results in scientific journals.
2. European University Institute (EUI) – Italy
Located in Florence, it is one of the oldest research centers in Europe.
It offers:
- Advanced postdoctoral training programs.
- Individual academic supervision and support in career development.
- Possibility of participating in major European research projects.
Documents required for application
Applicants must prepare a set of basic documents, including:
- Online application form.
- Academic curriculum vitae (CV).
- A copy of the doctoral degree and academic transcripts.
- A copy of your passport or birth certificate.
- A detailed research proposal outlining the project’s objectives and significance.
Eligibility criteria
The fellowship is open to all nationalities around the world, provided that:
- Obtained a PhD within the last five years in sociology or a related field.
- The applicant must have successfully completed the defense of his/her thesis before the start of the fellowship.
- That his research project aligns with the priorities of the European University Institute or the Berlin Centre for Social Sciences.
- Encourage women and researchers from diverse academic backgrounds to apply.
Application deadline of Kohli Fellowship
The application deadline for the 2026 Kohli Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship is November 16, 2025. Applicants
are advised to submit their applications early to ensure they are reviewed before the deadline, with an emphasis on the quality and originality of the research proposal.
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How to apply
To apply for the fellowship, applicants must:
- Fill out the electronic application form via the institution’s official website.
- Upload the required documents in PDF format.
- Prepare a comprehensive research proposal that outlines the objectives, methodology, and expected impact.
- Follow up their email for preliminary selection results and invitation to academic interview.
Selection process
Fellows are selected based on rigorous academic criteria including:
- Scientific excellence and quality of the proposed research.
- Originality, methodology, and relevance to the institution’s areas of interest.
- Academic interview conducted online or at the European headquarters.
- A limited number of researchers are selected each year, making the fellowship one of the most competitive programmes in Europe.
A summary
The Kohli Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026 is an invaluable opportunity for young researchers seeking to develop their research in a rich and supportive scholarly environment. With its fully funded fellowship, diverse host institutions, and global research network, this fellowship is an ideal launching pad for a successful international academic career in sociology.
