Resource Nexus for Sustainability Transformations (NEXtra) Doctoral Scholarship Programme 2027 in Germany (Fully Funded by DAAD and United Nations University) @United Nations University (UNU)

Overview

The Resource Nexus for Sustainability Transformations (NEXtra) Doctoral Scholarship Programme 2027 offers fully funded scholarships for doctoral research in Germany, focusing on the Resource Nexus and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Eligibility

• Citizenship from developing countries listed by the OECD DAC. Examples include Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Philippines, Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, etc.
• Master's degree with a grade equivalent to 2.5 or better in the German system, relevant to the chosen topic, and obtained no more than six years prior to the application deadline.
• At least two years of relevant work experience after the first academic degree.
• Must not have stayed in Germany for more than 15 months at the time of application.
• Fluency in English is required.
• Knowledge of German or another UN official working language is an asset.

Benefits

• Fully funded scholarship for 42 months (3.5 years) by DAAD and United Nations University.
• Includes a two-month German language course.
• Monthly stipend of EUR 1,400 to cover living and education expenses.
• Health insurance.
• In-person introductory German classes in February and March 2027.
• Additional allowance for travel or research.
• Exemption from tuition fees, though semester fees of approximately EUR 300-350 are payable to TU Dresden.

Key Responsibilities

• Conducting high-level research and scientific writing (80-90% of time).
• Completing the doctoral curriculum, including modules on the Resource Nexus.
• Developing and implementing a research approach aligned with the Resource Nexus and UN frameworks.
• Producing and publishing peer-reviewed scientific articles.
• Preparing a cumulative dissertation and successfully defending it.
• Participating in the NEXtra doctoral cohort activities and providing progress reports.
• Allocating 5-10% of time to educational initiatives, including delivering lectures and developing educational materials.
• Allocating 5-10% of time to outreach, advocacy, and impact activities, including engaging with the UN system and publishing policy briefs.

How to Apply

Submit a single PDF file containing all required documents in the specified order:

• Completed and signed EPOS Checklist.
• Filled and signed EPOS application form.
• Europass CV (reverse chronological order, no gaps, dated and signed).
• Motivation Letter.
• Copies of University Academic Degree Certificates and Transcripts (Bachelor's and Master's), with an official grading system explanation if necessary.
• Copy of Secondary School Certificate.
• Work Certificates (for at least two years of relevant experience, on official letterhead with signature, date, and stamp).
• Letters of Recommendation (one from employer, one from academic supervisor, on official letterhead with digital signature, date, and stamp).
• Proof of Language Skills (English and/or German), or confirmation in recommendation/work letters.
• Research Proposal (maximum 13,000 characters including spaces, plus references).
• Copy of the full Master’s thesis if in English, or an English translation of the abstract/summary if in another language.
• Optional: Publications, internship certificates, additional recommendation letters.

All documents must have an official translation if not in English or German, be complete, signed, and stamped where required.

Deadline

12 April 2026, 23:59 CEST.