PhD Postions

The state of Saxony-Anhalt supports talented emerging scholars through the Graduate Funding Program (GradFG). If you are considering a PhD in Saxony-Anhalt, not only will you receive academic support, but also a generous financial scholarship to kick-start your research career. In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about the Promotions Scholarships, which are designed to ease your entry into academia.

1. What is the Promotions Scholarship of the State of Saxony-Anhalt?

The Promotions Scholarship of Saxony-Anhalt is aimed at young researchers who wish to begin their PhD immediately after completing their higher education. The funding is designed to give highly qualified and motivated scholars the opportunity to realize their research projects. The scholarship is typically awarded twice a year, on January 1st and July 1st.

2. Key Requirements

To be eligible for the scholarship, several requirements must be met:

• Completed University Degree: You must have a completed, PhD-qualifying university degree.

• Good to Excellent Academic Record: Your final grade should be good to very good.

• Application Immediately After Studies: Applications should be made immediately after completing your studies or preparatory service, but no later than one year after completion. Exceptions may apply under certain conditions.

• Research Proposal: Your proposed research must have the potential to make a significant contribution to scientific research.

• Supervision by a Professor at OVGU: Your PhD research must be supervised by a professor or a private lecturer at Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg (OVGU).

• Qualification for Scientific Work: You must meet the required qualifications for conducting academic research.

3. Details of the Funding

The scholarship not only provides solid financial support but also offers additional allowances to cover living expenses during your PhD.

• Base Stipend: You will receive a monthly stipend of 1,100 euros (if you exceed the annual income threshold, the amount is 990 euros).

• Childcare Allowance: If you have children, you may receive an additional childcare allowance:

  • 1 child: 160 euros

  • 2 children: 210 euros

  • 3 or more children: 260 euros (up to the age of 12)

• Allowance for Chronic Illness or Disability: If you have a chronic illness or disability, you may receive an additional 160 euros per month.

• Research and Travel Budget: You will receive a budget of 1,100 euros for research and travel expenses during the standard funding period of 3 years.

4. Additional Activities and Side Jobs

The scholarship allows you to engage in academic or artistic activities during your funding period. This not only helps you gain further experience but also contributes to your career development.

• Research and Artistic Projects: You can participate in research tasks or artistic development projects. These activities can be closely related to your PhD.

• Teaching Assistance: You may also contribute to teaching activities. Your involvement in teaching will not be counted as income and does not affect your scholarship.

Regarding the scope of side jobs, the following rules apply:

• Max. 6 hours per week for activities that are not directly related to your research.

• Max. 20 hours per week for activities that are directly related to your PhD work (the connection to your research topic must be confirmed by your supervisor).

5. Application Process and Deadlines

It’s crucial to pay attention to the application deadlines for the scholarship:

• April 15th for funding starting on July 1st

• October 15th for funding starting on January 1st

Applications are submitted online via the Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg website. All relevant information and the application form are available there.

6. Conclusion

The Promotions Scholarship of the State of Saxony-Anhalt offers an excellent opportunity for talented early-career researchers to start their academic journey. With monthly financial support and additional allowances for childcare or chronic illnesses, the scholarship provides not only financial security but also the chance to focus entirely on your research. Furthermore, the close collaboration with Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg fosters academic exchange and enhances career opportunities.

If you are looking to build a career in research and meet the eligibility requirements, this scholarship could be the perfect support for your PhD journey.

For more details and to apply, visit ovgu.de.

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