The DAAD PRIME 2025 Postdoctoral Fellowship was officially announced. This fellowship funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) is one of the most prestigious opportunities for postdoctoral researchers who aim to strengthen their international academic career. PRIME stands for Postdoctoral Researchers International Mobility Experience and it supports researchers by offering both international and German phases of academic work.
If you’re a postdoc planning to take your research career to the next level the DAAD PRIME program can be a game changer. In this article we will explore everything you need to know about DAAD PRIME 2025—its benefits eligibility application process deadlines and tips to improve your chances of selection.
Key Highlights of DAAD PRIME 2025
- Duration 18 months (12 months abroad + 6 months in Germany)
- Funding Full-time employment contract with the German university
- Salary Based on German pay scale (TV-L E13 or E14) depending on host institution
- Mobility allowance Provided for the international phase
- Application deadline Likely in 29 August 2025
- Start of fellowship 01 June – 01 November 2026
Read More: DAAD Gathering 2025: A Complete Guide for Students and Scholars
Why Should You Apply
The PRIME fellowship is more than just funding. It offers a stable income access to international research environments and the opportunity to establish long-term academic networks
Here’s why this fellowship is highly attractive
- Job security during the fellowship via a German university contract
- Freedom to choose your host country and host institution
- Support for reintegration into the German research system
- DAAD’s reputation boosts your academic profile
Eligibility Criteria for DAAD PRIME 2025
Before applying make sure you meet the eligibility requirements
- You must have completed your PhD before the application deadline
- Your doctoral degree must not be older than six years
- German citizens EU nationals and non-EU nationals who have completed their PhD at a German institution are eligible
- You must not have resided in the chosen host country for more than 12 months in the last three years
- The German return host institution must be willing to employ you full-time and submit a formal declaration of support
Who Can Apply
This fellowship is ideal for
- Early-career postdoctoral researchers
- Researchers from all disciplines including humanities social sciences natural sciences and engineering
- Those aiming to build international collaborations
- Scholars who want to return and establish themselves in Germany
How Does the Fellowship Work
Once selected you will sign a full-time employment contract with a German university. This university acts as the home base and handles all financial matters.
You will spend 12 months conducting research abroad at a university lab or research institution of your choice. During this phase you’ll receive a mobility allowance and remain employed by the German institution.
After the international phase you’ll return to Germany for the final 6 months to continue your work collaborate further and complete your project.
Application Process for DAAD PRIME 2025
Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for the DAAD PRIME fellowship
1 Find Two Host Institutions
- One abroad (for the 12-month research stay)
- One in Germany (for the 6-month reintegration phase)
2 Prepare Your Application Documents
- Research proposal (maximum 10 pages)
- CV and list of publications
- PhD certificate
- Letters of invitation from both host institutions
- Proof of language proficiency (if required by host country)
3 Submit Your Application Online
All applications are submitted through the DAAD portal. The online system will open once the call is officially announced.
4 Get Endorsement from German Host
The German university must agree to employ you and submit a signed declaration of commitment.
5 Wait for Results
The selection process includes peer reviews and committee evaluations. Successful candidates are usually notified in early 2025
Important Dates and Deadlines
- Application Deadline: 29 August 2025
- Results Announced: March 2026
- Orientation Meeting: March/April 2026
- Fellowship Start: 01 June – 01 November 2026
How Are Applicants Selected
Selection is based on
- Quality of research proposal
- Academic achievements and publications
- Relevance of the international host institution
- Potential for long-term collaboration
- Commitment from the German host institution
DAAD looks for candidates who can become future leaders in research and academia
Tips for a Strong Application
- Choose a unique and feasible research topic
- Show how the international phase will benefit your career
- Demonstrate strong links between your two host institutions
- Highlight previous collaborations and academic excellence
- Be clear and concise in your proposal—reviewers value clarity