Kohli Fellowship for Sociology 2027 – Germany & Italy (Fully Funded)
About the Organization
The Kohli Foundation for Sociology, based in Berlin, supports innovative sociological research and academic excellence through fellowships, prizes, and infrastructure funding. Its mission is to promote high-quality sociological scholarship and support early-career researchers worldwide.
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Program Overview
The Kohli Fellowship for Sociology is a prestigious postdoctoral fellowship designed for outstanding early-career sociologists who have recently completed their PhD. Fellows receive full financial support for a two-year research stay at either the Berlin Social Science Center (WZB), Germany, or the European University Institute (EUI) in Florence/Fiesole, Italy.
This fellowship allows scholars to pursue independent research projects, strengthen their publication record, develop international collaborations, and actively participate in the intellectual life of leading European research institutions.
Program Level
Postdoctoral fellowship (PhD required)
Duration: 2 years
Open to recent PhD graduates or equivalent
Eligible Subjects
Sociology
Preference for projects focusing on Life Course Research or Generational Studies
All sociological research topics aligned with host institution’s agenda are welcome
Host Institutions
Berlin Social Science Center (WZB), Germany
European University Institute (EUI), Florence/Fiesole, Italy (Max Weber Programme for Postdoctoral Studies)
Benefits and Funding
Fully funded two-year fellowship
Financial support for living expenses, research activities, conference participation, and fieldwork (where applicable)
Opportunities to conduct independent research, advance publications, build international collaborations, organize workshops, and attend seminars and conferences
Mentoring and career development support
Fellowship Structure
WZB – Berlin: Integration into research unit, academic mentor, participation in seminars and training, tailored support for research and career goals
EUI – Florence/Fiesole: Membership in Max Weber Programme, faculty advisor, opportunities for fieldwork, networking, workshops, and strong interdisciplinary research environment
Eligibility Criteria
PhD in Sociology or related field (awarded within the last five years)
Dissertation submitted and defended before fellowship begins
Research aligns with host institution’s program
Demonstrated scholarly excellence and publication potential
Willing to reside in Berlin or Florence during fellowship
Commitment to participate in academic life
Applications from women and underrepresented groups are particularly encouraged
Application Procedure
Submit CV with publications, Academic Career Statement, detailed Research Proposal
Names of 2–3 academic referees who have agreed to provide letters
Applications evaluated with host institution
Selection Process
Based on academic excellence, originality and quality of research proposal, fit with host institution
Interview (online or in-person)
One Kohli Fellow selected per year
Important Dates
WZB (Berlin):
Application Deadline: 16 November 2025
Interviews & Selection: Winter 2025/2026
Fellowship Start: 1 October 2026
EUI (Florence/Fiesole):
Max Weber Programme Deadline: Fall 2026
Interviews & Selection: Winter 2026/2027
Fellowship Start: 1 September 2027
Apply Here
https://www.scholarshipsads.com/kohli-fellowship-for-sociology