Research funding agencies
Research not only needs creative ideas, but also financial support in order to be realized. In Germany, there are a large number of institutions that support scientists at different stages of their careers. These research funders differ in terms of whether they support basic research or application-oriented projects, whether they fund individuals or large consortia and whether they take a national or international perspective. The most important players are
German Research Foundation
German Research Foundation (DFG)
The DFG is the central institution for basic research in Germany. It funds scientific projects in all disciplines and aims to produce new findings without direct commercial benefit.
The DFG offers a wide range of funding formats for research projects at all career stages (from doctoral level upwards). An overview of all funding formats can be found on the DFG website. The GEPRIS database provides a brief summary of all DFG-funded projects. The following overview of a selection of common DFG formats is divided into funding types.
In addition to the funding advisory service at TU Dortmund University, DFG liaison officer Professor Dr. Dr. Wolfgang Rhode is available as a contact person for all applicants to the DFG. Please make an appointment by e-mail.
European research funding
The EU supports a broad spectrum of research: from basic research and applied research to innovation and market launch. Programs such as the European Research Council (ERC), Horizon Europe or "Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions" promote transnational research alliances, mobility and solutions for societal challenges.
Ministries of Science/ Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR)
The ministries at federal and state level often promote application-oriented research, technological innovations and scientific projects with social relevance (e.g. health, climate protection, digitalization). They set thematic priorities and programs, for example through the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR).
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NRW returnees
The Ministry of Culture and Science of the State of NRW supports the return of young researchers to a university in NRW with the return program.
Foundations
Foundations (e.g. Volkswagen Foundation, Fritz Thyssen Foundation, Humboldt Foundation) often offer specialized programmes with different funding profiles. Some focus on basic research, others on social innovation or interdisciplinary projects. They are flexible in terms of size and subject matter and complement state funding. You can also find many specialized foundations at the Association of German Foundations.
DAAD - German Academic Exchange Service
The DAAD awards scholarships for study, research and internship stays abroad and promotes international exchange. It supports German universities and research institutions in their internationalization through partnerships, advice and programmes. It also strengthens German studies, the German language and German studies abroad and helps developing countries to establish efficient higher education systems. The DAAD also acts as the national agency for Erasmus+ in the higher education sector
