This programme is between rounds. The round described here has closed, and DFG has not announced the next one.
Draft proposals may only be submitted in conjunction with an annual call for proposals; check DFG for current closing dates
DFG
Centres for Advanced Studies in the Humanities and Social Sciences (KFG) — Establishment/Renewal
Draft proposals may only be submitted in conjunction with an annual call for proposals; check DFG for current closing dates
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DFG Centres for Advanced Studies in the Humanities and Social Sciences (KFG) fund collaborative research centres in Germany for eight years (two 4-year periods), supporting 2-3 core researchers plus a visiting fellows programme without project-based restrictions. The call is open to humanities and social sciences researchers at German institutions and runs on an annual cycle with two review stages. Successful centres gain autonomy to shape their research agenda beyond traditional disciplinary boundaries.
Details
| Funder | DFG |
| Duration | 8 years (two 4-year funding periods) |
| Consortium | Required — typically 2–3 core researchers plus visiting fellows; single location |
| Application | 2-stage: draft proposal (panel review with review board members) → establishment proposal (panel meeting) |
| Frequency | Annual |
| Eligible countries | DE |
Eligibility & scope
Tailored to humanities and social sciences; 2–3 researchers collaborate intensively alongside a fellows programme. No project-based structure; location-bound. Draft submission only via annual call. Proposals must follow DFG form 54.04.
Who Should Apply
- •Established researchers (at least 2-3 collaborators) in humanities or social sciences
- •Teams hosted at a German university or research institution
- •Scholars with a clear, thematic research vision spanning 8 years
- •Research questions too broad or interdisciplinary for traditional project funding
- •Groups ready to welcome international visiting fellows and postdoctoral researchers
Key Dates
- •Annual draft proposal deadline (verify current closing date on DFG website)
- •Two-stage review: draft proposal (panel review) → full establishment proposal (panel meeting)
- •Eight-year funding period (two consecutive 4-year cycles)
Tips for Applicants
- ✓Submit draft proposals only during the annual call window; missed deadlines cannot be rescheduled.
- ✓Emphasise the intellectual coherence and long-term vision of the centre, not discrete projects, KFG funds a research environment, not a portfolio of isolated studies.
- ✓A strong fellows programme design strengthens competitiveness; detail how visiting scholars will integrate with core team research.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does DFG KFG funding last?
Eight years total, split into two consecutive 4-year funding periods with renewal evaluation after the first cycle.
How many researchers must be involved in a KFG centre?
Typically 2-3 core researchers plus a visiting fellows programme; all based at a single location.
What is the application timeline for a DFG KFG centre?
Draft proposals are submitted only during the annual call window; successful draft proposals then proceed to full establishment proposal review and panel meeting.
Can KFG centres operate across multiple institutions?
No, KFG centres are location-bound and operate at a single host institution.
What countries are eligible for DFG KFG funding?
Germany only; the centre must be hosted at a German university or research institution.
Related on Grantsby
- DFG writing tips & FAQ
Evaluation criteria, proposal structure, common mistakes.
Summary generated by AI based on published grant information. Always verify details on the funder's website.
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