BIGS-DR Scholarships 2026
Fully Funded PhD in Sustainable Development at University of Bonn
Center for Development Research (ZEF)
University of Bonn
Host Country
• Germany
The BIGS-DR Scholarships 2026 provide a fully funded PhD opportunity for outstanding students from the Global South to pursue interdisciplinary research in sustainable development at the University of Bonn, Germany.
Offered through the Bonn International Graduate School for Development Research (BIGS-DR) at ZEF, the program focuses on solving global challenges such as climate change, food security, poverty reduction, environmental sustainability, and governance.
The program combines academic training, fieldwork, and policy-oriented research, equipping scholars with the skills needed for impactful careers in academia, international organizations, and development sectors.
Eligibility Criteria
• Must be from a developing country (Global South)
• Must hold a Master’s degree with strong academic performance
• Minimum 2 years of relevant professional experience
• Strong research proposal aligned with ZEF themes
• Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
• Degree should typically be obtained within the last 6 years
Funding / Scholarship Benefits
Scholarship package includes:
• Monthly stipend (~€1,200 – €1,300)
• Full tuition fee coverage
• Health, accident & liability insurance
• Travel allowance (round-trip)
• Monthly rent subsidy (if applicable)
• Family support (where applicable)
• Research and fieldwork funding
Program Level
• PhD (Doctoral Degree)
Fields of Study
• Development Economics
• Agricultural & Environmental Sciences
• Political Science & Governance
• Sociology & Social Sciences
• Natural Resource Management
• Ecology & Sustainability Studies
Program Delivery
• Full-time PhD at ZEF, University of Bonn
• Includes coursework, interdisciplinary research, and international fieldwork
31 augustus 2026