Call for Applications: Digital GreenTalents – High Potentials in Sustainable Development Award 2025 (fully funded research stay in Germany)

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Closing Date: 6 June 2025

Call for Applications: Digital GreenTalents – High Potentials in Sustainable Development Award 2025 (fully funded research stay in Germany)

About the Digital GreenTalents Award 2025

The German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) hosts the prestigious Digital GreenTalents – High Potentials in Sustainable Development Award to promote the international exchange of innovative green ideas at the intersection of digitalization and sustainable development. It focuses on how digitalization can promote greater sustainability in science and society. Aspiring young scientists are invited to Germany for a three-month research stay to turn their ideas and ambitions into reality.

The competition is not only about what you do now, but also about what your aspirations are for the future. The award does not fund research projects, but aims to foster individual development. A high-level jury of German experts will help the ministry in selecting 20 high-potentials to be honored as this year’s “Digital GreenTalents“.

Research Stay in 2026

Take your research and your career to the next level with a fully funded research stay in Germany in 2026. Spend up to three months at a German institution or company of your choice – this is the centerpiece of the award. Gain new experiences in an inspiring environment and advance your professional career while building long-lasting relationships.

SpringSchool in 2026

Sustainability scientists and digital pioneers are no longer researching in two separate worlds with few connections between them. BMBF invite you to participate in an enriching experience at the Digital GreenTalents SpringSchool, where they delve into the issues that matter most! Engage in insightful discussions, gain valuable knowledge, and be part of a community passionate about shaping a sustainable and digitally empowered future. During this week-long event, you will meet other inspiring Digital Green Talents from around the world as well as the young scientists from the current Digital GreenTech funding program.

Mentoring Program

Take part in the Digital GreenTalents mentoring program, which is specifically geared to the sustainability industry, considering actual trends and topics. Benefit from the mentoring network and receive targeted support for integration into the German research landscape and the German green tech labor market.

Digital GreenTalents Network

Be part of the unique global Digital GreenTalents network. The active alumni network covers the entire spectrum of sustainability science and digitalization. Join the winners of the Digital GreenTalents Award 2024! You can also benefit from the experience of the 307 outstanding young minds from 72 countries, the awardees of the previous Green Talents competitions. Exchange ideas with your peers and find new project partners!

What are the application requirements?

Current enrollment in a doctoral program or 3 months after graduation, or current enrollment in the last year of a master’s program. A strong focus on research topics at the interface between digitalization and sustainable development.
Age: up to 30 years (with exceptions for childcare etc.)
Proven very good knowledge of English
Distinctly above average grades
Interest and commitment to actively participate in all parts of the Digital GreenTalents program

Applications received will generally be evaluated according to the following criteria: scientific/professional qualifications, appropriate research interests, motivation to participate, and excellence of the application. Preference will be given to applicants from countries of origin with an awareness of ethical issues in the use of AI. This includes, for example, nationals from member countries of the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI), an international initiative that aims to promote the responsible development and use of artificial intelligence in accordance with human rights, fundamental freedoms and common democratic values, as expressed in the OECD Recommendation on Artificial Intelligence.

How can I apply?

On the online application form, BMBF ask you for detailed information about your personal background, your scientific research, your educational qualifications and relevant experiences that underline your commitment to digitalization and sustainable development. BMBF also ask about your motivation for participating in the Digital GreenTalents competition and your ideas for your research in Germany.