The Paul and Maria Kremer International PhD-Scholarship is run by the Hans Böckler Foundation, the foundation of the German Trade Union Confederation (DGB) for co-determination and work-related research.
It brings doctoral candidates from abroad in theology and related social sciences or humanities to a Christian theological faculty or institute of a public German university for a 6- to 24-month research stay. Candidates from the Global South and Eastern Europe are especially encouraged.
Benefits & funding
- Stipend of EUR 1,850 for living expenses (the current rate)
- Travel lump sum of up to EUR 1,735
- A research stay of 6 to 24 months in Germany
Eligibility
- Non-German citizens living outside Germany
- Enrolled in a PhD programme in theology or a neighbouring field of the social sciences or humanities
- A host PhD supervisor at a Christian theological faculty or institute of a public (non-private) German university must invite you and take charge of your on-site support
- Applicants are expected to be politically, culturally or socially engaged and interested in the foundation’s core values
- No age limit; the Global South and Eastern Europe are especially encouraged (a preference, not a bar)
Application process
- 1Secure an invitation letter from your host supervisor in Germany and an assessment from your PhD supervisor at home.
- 2Write a 3-page research plan for your doctoral project and a 3-page paper on your research in Germany.
- 3Email the signed application form with all documents to the foundation by 28 February or 30 July.
Program timeline
Application deadline
28 February 2027
Following application deadline
30 July 2027