Heinz Heinen Fellowship Program 2027-2028: Funded Research Opportunity

The Heinz Heinen Fellowship Program is now open for applications for the 2027-2028 cycle. This program invites international scholars to research various forms of strong asymmetrical dependency and slavery across different historical periods and cultures. It is a key initiative of the Bonn Center for Dependency and Slavery Studies (BCDSS), a Cluster of Excellence supported by the German Excellence Strategy.

Application Closing Date: January 10, 2027

Location: Bonn, Germany

Programme Duration: Not specified

Stipend: Varies by fellow level (€1,700 – €3,600 per month)

Minimum Qualification: PhD or equivalent for various levels

Opportunity Type: Fellowship

About the Heinz Heinen Fellowship Program

The Heinz Heinen Fellowship Program aims to bring together leading international scholars to foster a rich environment for research and discourse. The program focuses on the study of strong asymmetrical dependency (SAD) and slavery in all its historical and cultural manifestations. It provides fellows with the time and freedom to dedicate themselves to their research projects.

The fellowship is designed to encourage active and creative involvement from participants. It serves as a platform for exchange, networking, and the sharing of research findings. All fellows and guests are encouraged to present their work in the Research Seminar, contributing to the collective knowledge within the Bonn Center for Dependency and Slavery Studies.

About the Bonn Center for Dependency and Slavery Studies (BCDSS)

The Bonn Center for Dependency and Slavery Studies (BCDSS) is a Cluster of Excellence funded by the German Excellence Strategy. It is dedicated to interdisciplinary research on dependency and slavery. The center brings together scholars from various fields to explore these complex historical and social phenomena.

The BCDDSS aims to advance understanding of the structures, practices, and consequences of dependency and slavery. It supports research that examines these issues across different societies and time periods. The fellowship program is a central part of its mission to foster global academic collaboration and knowledge creation.

Available Fellowship Opportunities

The Heinz Heinen Fellowship Program offers several levels of fellowships, catering to different stages of academic careers and types of expertise. These include:

• Doctoral Fellows
• Junior Postdoctoral Fellows
• Postdoctoral Fellows
• Senior Fellows
• “Alternative Knowledge Producers” (e.g., journalists, artists, creatives, museum professionals, curators, intellectuals)

What the Fellowship Offers

Successful applicants to the Heinz Heinen Fellowship Program can expect a range of benefits designed to support their research and stay in Bonn. These include:

• Monthly Stipend: The stipend amount varies based on the fellow’s level, ranging from €1,700 for doctoral fellows to €3,600 for senior fellows.
• Travel Allowance: A travel allowance is provided for outward and return journeys for fellows who do not reside in Bonn or its surrounding areas.
• Accommodation Support: A lump sum for accommodation is offered in addition to the stipend for fellows living outside of Bonn.
• Working Space: Fellows will have access to a dedicated workspace equipped with a desktop computer at the Bonn Center for Dependency and Slavery Studies.
• Workshop Organization: The opportunity to organize a workshop in Bonn and apply for its funding is available.
• Organizational Support: Assistance with organizational matters before and upon arrival in Bonn is provided.
• Childcare Support: Support in finding daycare for children is also offered.

Programme Duration and Location

The specific duration for each fellowship is not explicitly stated but is determined by the preferred time period indicated by the applicant in their proposal. The program is hosted at the Bonn Center for Dependency and Slavery Studies, located in Bonn, Germany. Applicants are encouraged to specify their intended period of stay in Bonn within their application.

Minimum Requirements

Eligibility for the Heinz Heinen Fellowship Program varies depending on the fellowship level. General requirements include:

• Doctoral Fellows: Must be candidates nearing completion of their PhD or enrolled in a doctoral study program.
• Postdoctoral Fellows: Must have completed their PhD no more than four years ago (for junior postdocs) or more than four years ago (for postdocs).
• Senior Fellows: Typically full professors or established researchers.
• Alternative Knowledge Producers: This category includes professionals such as journalists, artists, creatives, museum professionals, and intellectuals.
• Research Focus: All candidates must have research that focuses on different forms of Strong Asymmetrical Dependency (SAD) and slavery.
• Language: Applications and research must be conducted in English.

Competencies Required

Successful applicants will demonstrate strong research capabilities and a clear vision for their project. Key competencies include:

• A well-defined research project proposal relevant to the BCDDSS focus areas.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage research timelines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• A proven track record of academic or professional achievement in their field.
• Willingness to engage in academic discourse and collaboration.

Who Should Apply?

This fellowship is ideal for early-career and established scholars, as well as creative professionals, who are passionate about researching the historical and contemporary aspects of dependency and slavery. It is suited for individuals who wish to dedicate focused time to their research, benefit from an international academic community, and contribute to a leading research center in the field.

If you are a PhD candidate, a postdoctoral researcher, a seasoned academic, or an “Alternative Knowledge Producer” with a compelling research project on asymmetrical dependency or slavery, this program offers a valuable opportunity to advance your work.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare a comprehensive set of documents, which vary slightly by fellowship level. Generally, required documents include:

• Personal Statement/Letter of Motivation: Outlining the project description, relevance to BCDDSS, and preferred time period.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Concise and no more than 2 pages.
• List of Publications: If applicable.
• Degree Certifications: Copies of relevant university degrees.
• Enrollment/Admission Proof: For doctoral candidates.
• Letters of Recommendation: Typically two, with specific requirements for who should provide them.
• Work Samples: For “Alternative Knowledge Producers.”

All application documents must be in English and combined into a single PDF file.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their complete application documents in English, combined into one single PDF file, to the following email address: application@dependency.uni-bonn.de.

Applicants should carefully review the specific requirements for their chosen fellowship level. Ensure all documents are accurately prepared and included in the single PDF. Double-check all personal details and project descriptions before submitting.

For more detailed information and specific instructions for each fellowship category, please visit the official Heinz Heinen Fellowship program page.

Important Notes

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Ensure your application is complete and submitted by the deadline.
• All documents must be in English and combined into a single PDF.
• The relevance of your project to the Bonn Center for Dependency and Slavery Studies is a key consideration.

Closing Date

The closing date for applications for the Heinz Heinen Fellowship Program 2027-2028 is January 10, 2027.

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