Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG)
DFG Heisenberg Programme
Up to 5 years of senior funding to prepare researchers for leading academic positions in Germany.
About the DFG Heisenberg Programme
The DFG Heisenberg Programme supports researchers who have already demonstrated high-level scientific achievement (typically 5–12 years post-PhD) and are preparing for a leading academic position. The programme covers the researcher's salary at a senior level plus research costs, for up to 5 years. Three variants: Heisenberg Fellowship (researcher salary elsewhere); Heisenberg Position (researcher takes up a position at a German institution); and Heisenberg Professorship (supporting appointment to a professorship). Heisenberg is the bridge between earlier DFG career grants (Emmy Noether, Walter Benjamin) and a full professorial career in Germany. The scheme is widely regarded as the gold-standard recognition of mid-career excellence in German science. Competition is intense; successful applicants typically have substantial publication records and a clear vision for their research group.
Key facts
- Variants
- Fellowship / Position / Professorship
- Career stage
- 5–12 years post-PhD typical
- Duration
- Up to 5 years
- Host
- German institution
- Success rate
- ~20–25%
Who is eligible?
- •Typically 5–12 years post-PhD
- •Strong independent publication record
- •Project based at a German research institution (or moving there)
- •Demonstrated research leadership and group management experience
Frequently asked questions
+What is the difference between Emmy Noether and Heisenberg?
Emmy Noether (2–4 years post-PhD) supports first establishment of an independent research group. Heisenberg (5–12 years post-PhD) supports the next career step — transitioning from junior group leader to a senior/tenured position. They are sequential stages in a DFG-supported career.
+Which Heisenberg variant should I apply for?
Fellowship if you want flexibility across institutions. Position if your host has already agreed to employ you. Professorship if your host is creating/offering a professorial chair that Heisenberg will co-fund. Check with your host institution's research office first — they often have preferences.
+Does Heisenberg require having held an Emmy Noether?
No. Emmy Noether is not a prerequisite. Many Heisenberg applicants have instead held ERC Starting Grants, international fellowships, or DFG Research Grants leading up to their Heisenberg application.
+Can I extend a Heisenberg grant?
Yes, the initial 3 years can be extended by up to 2 more, based on mid-term evaluation. The full 5-year support is contingent on demonstrating research progress and continued institutional integration.
Looking for proposal-writing advice?
Read the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) writing guide →Related programmes
Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG)
DFG Emmy Noether Programme
Up to 6 years of funding for early-career researchers to establish an independent junior research group in Germany.
Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG)
DFG Walter Benjamin Programme
Postdoctoral fellowship for international mobility — conduct your project in Germany or abroad.
European Research Council
ERC Consolidator Grant
Up to €2M for mid-career researchers 7–12 years post-PhD consolidating their independent research team.
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