The offer is open to professors who are currently working at a US university and conducting research in the fields of The Future of Democracy, Fundamental Rights and Academic Freedom, or The Future of Transatlantic Relations and who wish to continue this research at a university or non-university research institution in Germany.

Applications can be made for a three-year affiliation with a university or non-university research institution in Germany at a level of 25 to 50 per cent, funded by the Volkswagen Foundation with up to EUR 300,000. The funded professors will spend three to six months each year working in Germany. The annual periods of presence in Germany are intended to facilitate exchange and joint research with colleagues in Germany. At the same time, they will maintain their affiliation with their home institution in the United States and continue to contribute to academic and public discourse there. The focus is on cooperation and fostering scientific transatlantic relations.

Applications can be submitted at any time from 15 January 2026 onwards.