With the freedom of science enshrined in the Basic Law, its excellent research infrastructure and broad spectrum of career prospects, Germany is already one of the most attractive locations for science and research. Particularly in view of the mounting pressure on the freedom of science in many places, Germany continues to be an attractive destination for researchers from all over the world in times of global polarization.
The Global Minds Initiative Germany of the BMFTR enables the German science system to offer good prospects, as was stated in the coalition agreement. Dorothee Bär, Federal Minister of Research, Technology and Space said:
"Our Global Minds Initiative Germany sends an important signal for scientific freedom and offers international researchers a safe haven."
The initiative builds on programmes of the AvH and the DFG. The Humboldt Foundation stands for the support of outstanding international researchers and implements targeted measures to develop Germany's global cooperation networks. The German Research Foundation is Germany’s largest research funding organization and central organ for the self-government of the science community in Germany, supporting research in all its forms and disciplines at universities and research institutions.
The internationally renowned funding programmes of both organizations enable a speedy start to a career in Germany for the best minds and talent from all over the world. The programmes are aimed at academics at various stages in their careers – from early post-docs upon earning their PhDs to established scientists and top-level professors. Support for accompanying partners and family members is also ensured.
The DAAD will also implement parallel measures for international students and doctoral candidates to further enhance the attractiveness of Germany as a place to study. This includes in particular a regional and target group-specific marketing campaign and the establishment of Graduate Welcome Centres at German universities which will provide individual onboarding assistance for excellent international (doctoral) students in Germany and at universities.
Funding is based on scientific excellence and is open to all themes. The initiative will also strengthen major cutting-edge fields that are addressed by the Federal Government’s High-Tech Agenda.
