Applications are now open for the 2025 Heidelberg Laureate Forum. Young researchers in mathematics and computer science from all over the world can apply for one of the 200 exclusive spots to participate in the Heidelberg Laureate Forum (HLF), an annual networking conference. The HLF offers all accepted young researchers the unique opportunity to interact with the laureates of the most prestigious prizes in the fields of mathematics and computer science.

The 12th HLF will take place from September 14 to 19, 2025 (with young researcher registration taking place on September 13). This prominent, versatile event combines scientific, social and outreach activities in a unique atmosphere, fueled by comprehensive exchange and scientific inspiration. Laureate lectures and discussions as well as various interactive program elements are some of the Forum’s fundamental elements, which are delivered in an environment that provides the space and time for unfettered exchange among attendees. 

Requirements

Students of mathematics and computer science (or closely related fields) at the following levels:

  • Undergraduate/Pre-Master: If you are enrolled in your studies (i.e. Bachelor’s or Master’s) and do not yet hold a Master’s degree.
  • Graduate PhD: If you are enrolled in a program and working towards a PhD.
  • Postdoc: If you have earned a PhD within the past 5 years. It is not required for you to hold a classic postdoctoral position. For example, if you work in the private sector or as an Assistant Professor, you may also apply. (If you received your PhD more than 5 years ago, you unfortunately do not fulfill the requirements to apply)

Please note: If your academic status changes between the submission of your application and the date of the HLF, the status at the point of submission will be the status that is recognized.

Benefits

Travel grant

Travel costs are not automatically covered by the HLFF.

  • Please apply for travel funding with your current affiliation (university, research lab, company, etc.) and national funding agency (when applicable) first.
  • If you cannot get travel funding from your current affiliation or national funding agency, you can apply for an HLFF travel grant to cover your travel costs. Uploading a letter of rejection to the travel grant application is mandatory.
  • The HLFF travel grant reimburses travel and visa costs incurred as part of your trip to and from the HLF (excluding food/meals).
  • Young researchers selected to attend the HLF can submit a travel grant application (in the registration tool) once the registration phase has begun.

The Heidelberg Laureate Forum Foundation (HLFF) will book and cover the costs for a single hotel accommodation (including breakfast) from September 13 to September 20, 2025.

  • Each invited young researcher will have their own hotel room.
  • Hotels are within walking distance of the HLF venue (max. 15 minutes).
  • Check-in is generally possible after 3:00 p.m. on the arrival day. All hotels allow you to store your luggage at the hotel if you arrive early.
  • All additional costs for extras, such as double room surcharges (for an accompanying person), telephone calls, room service, mini-bar, etc., will be at your own expense.

The HLFF will also provide meals throughout the HLF week.

  • Breakfast will be at the hotel.
  • Lunches, dinners and coffee breaks with snacks will be at the HLF venue.
  • On departure day, only breakfast will be provided.

Selection Criteria

  • All applications that are completed and submitted by the deadline are meticulously reviewed by an international committee of experts appointed by the award-granting institutions to ensure that the most qualified candidates are invited.
  • There are 100 spaces available for researchers from both mathematics and computer science, respectively.
  • All applicants will be notified by the end of April 2025 about whether or not they have been selected.

Application Timeline:

  • Application phase: November 11, 2024 – February 11, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. Berlin time (CET / UTC+1)
  • Reviewing phase: Mid February – mid April, 2025
  • Acceptance/rejection notification: End of April, 2025
  • Registration phase: Begins once you receive your acceptance notification
  • Travel grants: Accepted young researchers can apply for a travel grant once the registration phase starts.

Method of Application

  • CV
  • Motivational statement
  • Letter of recommendation
  • Awards or other scientific achievements (if any).
  • Graduate PhDs and postdocs further require a short summary of their thesis topic, transcripts and publications (if any).

Please note: The official language of the Heidelberg Laureate Forum (HLF) is English. All documents must include copies of your diplomas in the original language as well as English translations of them.

For More Information,

Visit the Official Webpage

Application Deadline: February 11, 2025, at 11:59 p.m