Some scholarships are about making a difference, and this one is exactly that. If you’re curious about history and how knowledge has shaped the world, then this could be a great opportunity for you. The Gerda Henkel Foundation Fellowship 2025 is perfect for anyone who loves diving into old ideas, research, and science. It’s hosted in Germany, at Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, and offers so much to explore. Let’s talk about what this program is all about and how it can help you..Â
What is the Gerda Henkel Foundation Fellowship at the Martin Luther University?
This fellowship is offered by the Gerda Henkel Foundation, and it focuses on understanding history and knowledge, especially during the Enlightenment period. If you’re interested in research and want to study topics like how knowledge was shared and used in the 18th century, this fellowship gives you the platform to do it.
The program is based at the Interdisciplinary Centre for European Enlightenment Studies (IZEA) in Halle, Germany. It’s a place where researchers and students come together to study history in new and exciting ways. The fellowship gives you a chance to work on your own research, share your findings, and learn from experts in the field.
Why Should You Apply?
Here are some great reasons to consider applying for this scholarship:
- It’s for learners like you: If you love asking big questions about the past and how ideas have shaped the present, this is the perfect program.
- It’s well-supported: You’ll get access to libraries, historical collections, and a monthly stipend to help you focus on your work.
- It’s a chance to share your ideas: You can present your research in public lectures and contribute to discussions about science and history.
- It’s all about growth: You’ll work with scholars, build connections, and be part of a global network of people who care about history and knowledge.
What Subjects Are Covered?
The scholarship is open to the following programs at Martin Luther University:
- The history of knowledge: studying how ideas have been recorded, shared, and understood over time.
- The history of science: looking at discoveries, methods, and how science has influenced the world.
- Your project needs to connect to the Enlightenment era, especially the 18th century.
Benefits of the Gerda Henkel Foundation Fellowship at the Martin Luther University
The Gerda Henkel Foundation Fellowship at the Martin Luther University offers several benefits to eligible students:
- Financial support: You’ll receive:
- €2,300 per month if you’re a postdoctoral researcher.
- €1,600 per month if you’re a doctoral student.
- Access to resources: Work with historical archives, rare manuscripts, and special collections related to science, anatomy, and natural history.
- Networking opportunities: Meet scholars, discuss your ideas, and join debates about history and its impact on society.
- A platform for your work: Present your findings through lectures and contribute to the fellowship’s blog, Café Lumières.
Who Can Apply?
This scholarship is intended for fellowship students who fall into the following categories:
- Your focus area: Your research should be about the history of knowledge or the history of science. It must connect to Enlightenment studies.
- Education level:
- If you’re applying for a postdoctoral fellowship, you should already have a PhD and a published research paper.
- If you’re a doctoral student, you need to be enrolled in a PhD program and provide a recommendation letter.
- Research proposal: You’ll need to share a clear plan for your project, not more than five pages.
- Residency: You’ll need to stay in Halle, Germany, for up to three months while completing the fellowship.
- Language skills: You should be fluent in English. Knowing German is helpful but not required.
- Engagement: You’ll take part in IZEA activities, give a lecture about your work, and contribute to the fellowship’s blog.
Required documents: below is the list of the needed documents for the scholarship:
- A letter of motivation: Explain why you want to join the program and how it fits your goals.
- Your curriculum vitae (CV): Highlight your academic work, publications, and achievements.
- A list of publications: If you’re a postdoctoral applicant, include one published research paper.
- A research proposal: Outline your project in no more than five pages.
- A recommendation letter: This is required for doctoral students.
How to Apply for Gerda Henkel Foundation Fellowship at Martin Luther University
Interested in joining the Gerda Henkel Foundation Fellowship at Martin Luther University? Here is a straightforward guide to help you apply:
- Prepare all the required documents mentioned above.
- Send your application to izea@izea.uni-halle.de by January 15, 2025.
- Make sure your application is complete before sending it. If you have any questions, you can reach out to Dr. Andrea Thiele at andrea.thiele@izea.uni-halle.de.
Application Deadline(s)
Application deadline is January 15, 2025.
Conclusion
The Gerda Henkel Fellowship is an amazing opportunity for anyone passionate about the history of knowledge and science. It’s not just about research; it’s about connecting with other scholars, exploring unique resources, and contributing to important conversations about the past and its impact on today’s world.
So, what are you waiting for? Visit the Gerda Henkel Foundation Fellowship Martin Luther University page via the link under the ‘HOW TO APPLY’ section above.