Applications are now open for the 2024 HeiGIT Robert and Christine Danziger Scholarship. The Robert and Christine Danziger Scholarship application window is open until August 31st, 2024, offering a unique opportunity for doctoral candidates from Africa, particularly Ghana or West and Central Africa. The scholarship designed for those pursuing a doctorate at Heidelberg University in the fields of geography (with a focus on geoinformatics) or political science and have demonstrated excellent performance in their respective fields.

Prospective scholars are encouraged to explore dynamic research opportunities within the GIScience Research Group and ongoing projects at the Heidelberg Institute for Geoinformation Technology (HeiGIT). Engage in innovative basic and applied research at the crossroads of geography and computational sciences, with thematic focuses on volunteered geographic information (VGI), big spatial data analytics, smart mobility, and humanitarian aid, including disaster management. A close collaboration with HeiGIT facilitates the translation of research into practical solutions.

Application Requirements

You can apply for a Robert and Christine Danziger Scholarship if you meet all of the following requirements:

  1. Your are from Africa (primarily from Ghana or another country in West and Central Africa).
  2. You are planning a doctorate at Heidelberg University in one of the following fields and are in the process of applying for the upcoming winter:
    • Geography with a focus on Geoinformatics
    • Political Science 
  3. You are among the best in your field.
  4. You need help with funding your doctorate.
  5. You are planning to move to Germany to study for a PhD at Heidelberg University, on site, or you already live in Germany since you are currently attending a language course to acquire required language skills.

Please note: The application for a scholarship is not an application for a doctorate. Therefore, please apply additionally for a doctorate at Heidelberg University in one of the above-mentioned fields.

Benefits

  • Successful applicants will receive a monthly stipend of 1,200 € for up to 36 months, providing crucial financial support throughout their doctoral journey
  • The maximum funding period is 36 months. The initial approval usually covers 24 months. Before the end of the first funding year, an interim report by the doctoral candidate and a report by the supervisor must be submitted. If according to this interim report, there is no recognisable timely progress, the approval may be revoked. An extension of up to 12 months is possible in justified exceptional cases.

Method of Application

Please submit the following application documents during the application period:

  • Signed application form
  • Current performance records: University diploma that qualifies for a doctorate (original certificate) including the final grade as well as an official translation in German or English and if available, an official conversion of the diploma to the German grading system.
    If your university diploma is not available by the end of the application period, it is sufficient to submit a provisional certificate from the university confirming your academic performances, so far (ideally with a grade of all examinations, so far), that states that you expect to complete your course of study by the start of the semester following the application period. Please note that you have to submit your missing certificate by the start of the lecture period.
  • Curriculum vitae in table form
  • Letter of motivation with reference to the topic of the doctorate
  • Recommendation (letter of recommendation) for a doctorate from the possible doctoral supervisor (this must be received by the end of the application period)
  • Proof of citizenship
  • Evidence confirming your financial situation (money available each month, pay slip of the parents, own wage slips etc.)

Please note: If you are selected for a Robert and Christine Danziger Scholarship, the scholarship will not be paid until you submit a valid enrolment certificate.

For More Information,

Visit the Official Webpage

Application Deadline: August 31st, 2024.