# DFG and SSHRC Expand Partnership for German-Canadian International Research Training Groups in Social Sciences and Humanities

**Funder:** DFG
**Consortium:** Required — German-Canadian partnership (DFG + SSHRC); each party funds its own researchers
**Eligible countries:** DE
**Official call:** https://www.dfg.de/en/news/news-topics/announcements-proposals/2026/ifr-26-59
**Last updated:** 19 Aug 2026

## Eligibility & scope

Joint call between DFG and Canada's SSHRC for International Research Training Groups in Social Sciences and Humanities. Requires collaboration between German and Canadian research groups; each agency funds its own side.

## Summary

The DFG and SSHRC joint call funds International Research Training Groups (IRTGs) in social sciences and humanities, requiring mandatory German-Canadian collaboration with each funder supporting its own researchers. This programme is designed to build sustained research partnerships between German and Canadian institutions, creating structured training environments for doctoral and postdoctoral researchers across borders. The call reflects a strategic expansion of the DFG-SSHRC partnership in the social sciences.

## Who should apply

- Research groups at German universities and research institutions (DFG side)
- Groups with an established or newly formed Canadian collaborator in SSHRC-eligible institutions
- Social sciences and humanities researchers with structured training and mentoring plans
- Consortia able to support doctoral and postdoctoral researcher mobility across borders

## Key dates

- Call published 18 August 2026; see DFG call page for specific deadline
- Consortium structure requires coordinated application from both German and Canadian sides

## Tips for applicants

- Partner selection is critical: SSHRC eligibility and the Canadian funder's own review criteria shape feasibility; confirm Canadian co-investigator status early.
- Structure your proposal to show clear division of labour and complementary roles, reviewers assess whether the partnership adds value beyond parallel funding.
- International Research Training Groups require explicit training and mobility plans; outline secondment schedules, co-supervision arrangements, and joint seminars.

## Frequently asked questions

### Is a Canadian partner mandatory for this DFG call?

Yes, the call requires a German-Canadian partnership; German researchers must have a named collaborator at a SSHRC-eligible Canadian institution.

### Does DFG fund the Canadian side of the research?

No, DFG funds the German researchers and institutions, while SSHRC funds the Canadian side, applicants must coordinate with both funders.

### What fields are eligible for this DFG-SSHRC IRTG call?

Social sciences and humanities research within both the DFG and SSHRC remit; check both funder eligibility lists for your discipline.

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Source: [The Great Grantsby](https://grantsby.eu/grants/dfg-and-sshrc-expand-partnership-for-german-canadi-2026) — EU grant monitoring for academic researchers. Always verify details on the funder's website before applying.

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