The Hans Böckler Foundation is the institute of the German Federation of Trade Unions (DGB) to promote research and studies. The HSB awards fellowships to doctoral students with outstanding academic gifts who show commitment to labour unions or socio-political issues. Doctoral candidates in any discipline who are enrolled at German institutions of higher education, also in programmes such as graduate schools or junior researcher groups, are encouraged to apply.

Every year the HSB assigns about 100 grants. The fellows receive 1,450 EUR per month plus a research cost allowance of 100 EUR, a health-care subsidy as well as family allowances, if necessary. Comprehensive non-material support is also part of the fellowship.

particularly gifted doctoral candidates in any discipline who propose a promising doctoral project and show commitment to labour unions or socio-political issues
Candidates need to be admitted for doctoral studies a a state or state-recognised higher education institution. If possible, the doctoral project should have sociopolitical relevance and a meaningful contribution to research can be expected.

admission to post-graduate studies at a state or state-recognised institution of higher education in Germany

about 100 fellowships per year

The standard funding period is 3 years and may be extended in justified cases.

Doctoral students currently receive a grant of 1,550 EUR (1,450 EUR basic grant plus a research cost allowance of 100 EUR).
In addition, they receive a health insurance subsidy of up to 100 EUR and, if applicable, a family allowance.

Please find all application forms and information on the online application procedure here.

Please find the updated deadlines here.