Max Weber Programme 2027-2028: Postdoctoral Fellowship at EUI

The European University Institute (EUI) is accepting applications for its prestigious Max Weber Programme (MWP) for the 2027-2028 academic year. This funded postdoctoral fellowship is designed for early-stage researchers in the humanities and social sciences. It offers a unique opportunity to conduct research in a stimulating academic environment located in Florence, Italy.

Application Closing Date: October 16, 2026
Location: Florence, Italy
Programme Duration: 12-24 months
Stipend: €2,500 per month
Minimum Qualification: PhD

About the Max Weber Programme (MWP)

The Max Weber Programme is a highly selective postdoctoral fellowship at the European University Institute. It focuses on disciplines within the historical, humanities, and social sciences. The programme aims to support promising early-career researchers by providing them with the resources and environment to advance their academic work.

Each year, the MWP accepts around 65 fellows from a global pool of applicants. Preference is given to those who have recently completed their doctoral studies and have not previously held a postdoctoral fellowship. Fellows benefit from a multidisciplinary approach, engaging with a broad range of academic and professional development activities.

About the European University Institute (EUI)

The European University Institute is an international centre for research and postgraduate study. Located in Florence, Italy, it was founded by the European Communities to provide academic and research training in the fields of history, economics, law, and political and social sciences. The EUI is known for its vibrant international community and its commitment to excellence in research.

Available Fellowship Opportunities

The Max Weber Programme supports research across various academic units within the EUI. These include:

• Economics
• History
• Law
• Political and Social Sciences
• Robert Schuman Centre for Advanced Studies
• Florence School of Transnational Governance

What the Fellowship Offers

Selected fellows will receive a number of benefits to support their research and living expenses. These include:

• A monthly grant of €2,500.
• Potential family allowances, if applicable.
• Health insurance coverage.
• Access to mission and research funds.
• For fellows in their second year, there is a possibility to apply for a part-time assistant professor contract, which includes teaching duties and mentoring PhD researchers. This contract offers an additional net remuneration of approximately €850 per month.

Programme Duration and Location

The Max Weber Programme fellowship typically lasts for 12 to 24 months. Fellows are required to reside in the Florence area for the duration of their fellowship. This is to ensure active participation in the programme and the academic life of their chosen academic unit at the EUI.

Minimum Requirements

To be eligible for the Max Weber Programme, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Candidates of any nationality are welcome to apply.
• Applicants must have received their PhD within the last 5 years. Alternatively, they must have official approval to defend their thesis by the start of the programme on September 1, 2027.
• For the 2027-2028 cycle, PhDs should have been received or submitted between September 1, 2022, and September 1, 2027. The PhD defence must occur no later than December 31, 2027.
• Extensions to the five-year rule are possible for academic careers interrupted by maternity or paternity leave, illness, or mandatory military service. Supporting documents will be required.
• Current EUI doctoral students or those employed or on a fellowship at the EUI at the time of application are not eligible. Former EUI fellows can apply if they have been away from the EUI for at least one continuous year in a full-time occupation or fellowship by the application deadline.
• A C1 level of English proficiency according to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) is expected. While an English certificate is not required for the initial application, successful candidates will need to provide proof upon registration.

Competencies Required

Successful candidates are expected to demonstrate strong academic and research capabilities. Key competencies include:

• A strong academic record and research potential.
• The ability to conduct independent research.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• A commitment to academic practice and engagement with the EUI community.
• An understanding of how gender and diversity relate to their proposed research.

Who Should Apply?

This fellowship is ideal for early-career researchers who have recently completed their PhD and are looking to gain valuable postdoctoral experience. It is particularly suited for those who want to immerse themselves in a dynamic international academic setting and contribute to the vibrant research community at the European University Institute. If you are passionate about your field and eager to develop your research further, this programme offers an excellent platform.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare the following documents for their application:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) including a list of publications (PDF format).
• An ‘Academic career statement’ (1 page) outlining research and teaching interests, experience, career plans, and why the MW Programme will be beneficial (PDF format).
• A ‘Research proposal’ (2 pages) detailing clear, well-structured, and achievable goals for the fellowship period, including reflections on gender and diversity relevant to the research (PDF format).
• A copy of your passport (JPEG format).
• Ensure documents do not use macros, special characters, or password protection.
• AI-generated content in the academic career statement and research proposal must be acknowledged and referenced.

Letters of Reference

Applicants need to provide the names of two to three academic referees. At least two letters of reference must be submitted online directly by the referees by the application deadline. References from current EUI professors will not be accepted.

How to Apply

Interested candidates can apply online through the EUI application portal.
Click here to apply for the Max Weber Programme 2027-2028.

Applicants should ensure they have all required documents ready and submit their application well before the closing date. It is important to carefully read all instructions on the application portal.

Important Notes

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further steps. Late applications will not be considered. Applicants must ensure they meet all eligibility criteria before applying. Incomplete applications may be disqualified. Ensure all submitted documents are clear and legible.

Closing Date

The closing date for applications for the Max Weber Programme 2027-2028 is October 16, 2026.

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