The Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics (Albert Einstein Institute) in Germany is now accepting applications for the Max Planck Fellowship 2026. This prestigious and fully funded fellowship provides an exceptional opportunity for outstanding postdoctoral researchers from around the world to engage in advanced scientific work in gravitational physics.
The program allows selected fellows to spend up to two years at the institute’s facilities in Potsdam and Hannover, Germany, collaborating with top-tier scientists and contributing to groundbreaking research in theoretical and experimental physics.
This fellowship aims to foster international collaboration, support academic excellence, and strengthen research in gravitational wave astronomy, quantum gravity, and related fields.
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Summary of the Max Planck Fellowship 2026
- Host Country: Germany
- Host Institution: Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics (Albert Einstein Institute)
- Program Duration: Up to 2 years
- Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
- Application Deadline: November 25, 2025
About the Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics
The Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics, also known as the Albert Einstein Institute (AEI), is a world leader in gravitational physics research. It operates across two major campuses — Potsdam (theoretical research) and Hannover (experimental research).
The institute focuses on areas such as:
- Gravitational wave detection
- Numerical relativity
- Astrophysics
- Quantum gravity
- Data analysis for space missions like LISA (Laser Interferometer Space Antenna)
Fellows at AEI gain direct access to modern laboratories, research computing facilities, and a vibrant community of international scientists dedicated to exploring the frontiers of physics.
Financial Benefits
The Max Planck Fellowship 2026 is a fully funded postdoctoral program that provides generous financial and logistical support for selected fellows. Benefits include:
- Monthly Stipend: Depending on research experience and academic record, fellows receive one of the following stipends:
- €2,500 per month
- €3,000 per month
- €3,600 per month
- Travel Allowance: Coverage for round-trip travel expenses.
- Baggage Allowance: Additional subsidy for extra baggage costs.
- Research Environment: Access to advanced laboratories, workshops, computing resources, and collaboration with renowned scientists.
These benefits ensure that researchers can fully focus on their scientific work without financial concerns.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Max Planck Fellowship 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Must hold a PhD or equivalent doctoral degree in physics or a closely related discipline.
- Open to international postdoctoral researchers from all nationalities.
- Applicants should demonstrate strong academic performance, research ability, and a commitment to advancing gravitational physics.
- Fellows are expected to spend up to two years at the Max Planck Institute’s Potsdam or Hannover locations.
Required Documents
Applicants are required to submit the following materials during the online application process:
- Cover Letter – clearly outlining your motivation and research interests.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) – detailing academic achievements and prior research experience.
- List of Publications – highlighting major contributions to the field.
- Statement of Research Interests – explaining your past, current, and future research goals.
Providing clear, concise, and well-structured documentation will significantly strengthen your application.
Research Opportunities for Fellows
Fellows will work in one or more of AEI’s research divisions, such as:
- Astrophysical and Cosmological Relativity
- Quantum Gravity and Unified Theories
- Laser Interferometry and Gravitational Wave Detection
- Computational Relativity and Data Analysis
Collaboration with leading international projects, including LIGO, VIRGO, and LISA, is also possible. Fellows may publish research papers, attend conferences, and participate in interdisciplinary seminars.
Why You Should Apply
The Max Planck Fellowship 2026 offers a unique platform for researchers to push the boundaries of gravitational physics while being part of an elite international scientific community.
Key advantages include:
- Working in a world-class research environment.
- Access to advanced experimental and computational tools.
- Opportunities for scientific collaboration and networking.
- Exposure to interdisciplinary projects bridging theory and experiment.
- Generous financial and professional support.
This fellowship not only enhances your research career but also strengthens your prospects for future academic and research leadership roles.
How to Apply for the Max Planck Fellowship 2026
The application process is conducted online through the official Max Planck Institute website.
Application Steps:
- Prepare all required documents in PDF format.
- Visit the Max Planck Fellowship Application Portal.
- Fill in your personal and academic details accurately.
- Upload all supporting documents and submit before the deadline.
Application Deadline: November 25, 2025
There is no application fee, and all applications will be reviewed by a committee of senior researchers.
Conclusion
The Max Planck Fellowship 2026 in Germany is a prestigious opportunity for emerging scientists to collaborate with world-renowned researchers in the field of gravitational physics. Offering a fully funded two-year research stay, it combines financial security, academic prestige, and scientific innovation — all within one of Europe’s top research environments.
If you have completed your PhD and are eager to advance your research in gravitational or theoretical physics, this fellowship could be your next academic milestone.
