Organizer Information

The Käte Hamburger Kolleg: Cultures of Research (c:o/re) is an international center for advanced study at RWTH Aachen University, Germany. It focuses on the history, philosophy, and sociology of science and technology, exploring the diverse cultures within scientific research and how these are transformed through interdisciplinary discourse. Funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research, the center brings together scholars from the humanities, social sciences, and natural, life, and technical sciences. c:o/re encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, global perspectives, and engagement with themes such as digitality, complexity, globality, and expanded Science & Technology Studies (STS). Fellows are integrated into a vibrant international research community with access to RWTH Aachen University’s resources and collaborative networks across Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands.

Title & Description

Fellowship Applications 2026/2027 — “Varieties of Science”

The Käte Hamburger Kolleg invites applications for research fellowships starting October 2026, for a duration of 6–12 months. The fellowship program is centered on the theme “Varieties of Science”, exploring how scientific research is conducted and institutionalized differently across national, cultural, and disciplinary contexts. Fellows are encouraged to submit projects examining comparative research cultures, methodological frameworks for analyzing differences in scientific practices, or case studies of particular scientific disciplines within specific countries. This program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and seeks to integrate perspectives from humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and technical disciplines. Fellows will engage with the center’s weekly seminars, workshops, and interdisciplinary research events, fostering a stimulating environment for scholarly dialogue

Categories

  • History, Philosophy, Sociology of Science & Technology (STS)
  • Science & Technology Studies (STS)
  • Interdisciplinary Research (linking humanities/social sciences with natural, life or technical sciences)
  • Research & Scholarship

Eligibility

  • Open to postdoctoral researchers (PhD must be fully completed at time of application) and senior researchers (professorship or equivalent).
  • Applicants may come from humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, life sciences, or technical/engineering sciences — reflecting the interdisciplinary orientation.
  • Applicants of any nationality are eligible (international call).
  • An interdisciplinary outlook is a plus; proposals bridging disciplines are encouraged.

Program Benefits & Awards

  • Full grant or stipend (depending on the applicant’s employment situation) for the fellowship period.
  • Fully‑equipped working space at RWTH Aachen University, including access to research labs, library services, administrative & IT support.
  • Logistical support, institutional infrastructure, and assistance in finding accommodation for residential stay in Aachen.
  • Intellectual exchange with an international cohort of fellows from diverse disciplines; participation in seminars and events fostering interdisciplinary dialogue.
  • Option for teaching replacement funding if the fellow retains a position at their home institution.

Application Fee

None

Application Requirements

  • Completed online application form (in English) via c:o/re’s application platform.
  • Cover letter/motivation letter (1 page).
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV).
  • List of publications.
  • Writing sample in English (e.g., journal article or book chapter — co‑authored allowed; papers under review accepted with bibliographical info).
  • Exposé / research proposal (max. 3 pages) presenting research questions, methodology, project outline, and how it fits the c:o/re thematic focus.

How to Apply?

Online Application

Key Dates

  • Application Deadline: 31 December 2025
  • Fellowship Start: October 2026
  • Fellowship Duration: 6–12 months (full 12‑month period preferred).

Location

Aachen, Germany

Additional Details

  • Fellows are expected to be resident in Aachen during their fellowship and attend weekly c:o/re events.
  • Three possible financial arrangements depending on employment status: stipend + housing allowance, sabbatical allowance, or teaching replacement funding.
  • Interdisciplinary projects combining humanities/social sciences with natural/life/technical sciences are especially welcomed.
  • The writing sample must be in English.
  • The center encourages applications from diverse backgrounds, including scholars from the Global South.

Website Link: https://khk.rwth-aachen.de/

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