The UNU NEXtra Doctoral Scholarship Program 2024 offers an exceptional opportunity for doctoral candidates to engage in cutting-edge research addressing critical global challenge.
About UNU NEXtra Doctoral Scholarship Program 2024 in Germany
Opportunity Details
Led by the United Nations University (UNU), this program aims to advance the Sustainable Development Goals through innovative interdisciplinary research.
DAAD will sponsor doctoral candidates through the EPOS funding program for 42 months, including a two-month German language course, under the NEXtra program. Successful candidates will research to advance the Resource Nexus and Sustainable Development Goals.
They’ll receive joint supervision from experts at Technische Universitaet Dresden, UNU-FLORES, and Leibniz Institute for Ecological Urban and Regional Development (IOER). Enrolled in Joint Doctoral Programs, candidates will collaborate with the United Nations, aligning their research with regional needs and sustainability goals. Applications will be evaluated based on academic merit and responsiveness to regional contexts.
Benefits of UNU NEXtra Doctoral Scholarship Program 2024 in Germany
The successful NEXtra Doctoral Scholarship Program candidates will receive:
- A monthly stipend of EUR 1,300 for up to 42 months, covering living and educational expenses
- Health insurance coverage
- In-person German language classes
- An allowance for travel or research
- Tuition-free enrollment in the doctoral program
Also, they will benefit from the following:
- Joint supervision from experts at Technische Universitaet Dresden, UNU-FLORES, and Leibniz Institute for Ecological Urban and Regional Development (IOER)
- Enrollment in Joint Doctoral Programs
- Collaboration with the United Nations to align research with regional needs and sustainability goals
UNU NEXtra Doctoral Scholarship Program 2024 in Germany Requirements
The successful NEXtra Doctoral Scholarship Program candidates should meet these criteria:
- Applications are open to all nationalities
- Master’s degree with a minimum grade of 2.5 or better, according to the German system
- Master’s degree completion before the start of the scholarship, not exceeding six (6) years before doctoral research begins
- Minimum two years of related work experience post-bachelors degree
- Maximum stay of fifteen (15) months in Germany by the application deadline
- Strong scientific background and methodological competencies relevant to the selected topic
- Experience in trans-/interdisciplinary research preferred
- Interest and prior experience in sustainability, development cooperation, or the Resource Nexus
- Ability to handle complex tasks and strong analytical skills
- Excellent writing, presentation, planning, and organizational skills
- Flexibility, ability to prioritize, and work within set timeframes
- Strong team player with multicultural sensitivity
- Proficiency in English required; knowledge of additional languages beneficial, particularly official languages of target regions
- Knowledge of German or other UN official languages is advantageous
Candidates Responsibilities:
- Conduct research aligned with chosen topics, utilizing robust methodologies to advance scientific knowledge and contribute to sustainability transformations.
- Engage actively within NEXtra and collaborate with the UN system, participating in workshops, information exchange, and strategic collaborations.
- Disseminate knowledge through advocacy strategies, publication in peer-reviewed journals, presentations at scientific events, and outreach efforts to local communities.
- Support capacity development by supervising Master students and organizing educational activities.
- Fulfill additional duties as assigned by the supervision team.
Key Performance Indicators:
- Timely and quality project plan development and implementation.
- On-time submission and successful completion of the doctoral thesis.
- Presentation of research findings at relevant conferences and events.
- Contribution to the positive reputation of the NEXtra consortium among stakeholders.
Candidates Competencies:
Values:
- Inclusion: Create an environment of dignity and respect for all, irrespective of identity.
- Integrity: Act ethically and promptly address unprofessional or unethical behavior.
- Humility: Demonstrate self-awareness and interest in learning from others.
- Humanity: Act per the United Nations peace, dignity, and equality goals.
Behaviors:
- Connect and Collaborate: Foster positive relationships and work coherently within the United Nations.
- Analyze and Plan: Utilize data to understand issues, propose evidence-based solutions, and plan action.
- Deliver Results with Positive Impact: Hold oneself and others accountable for achieving positive outcomes.
- Learn and Develop: Pursue personal learning and contribute to the development of others.
- Adapt and Innovate: Demonstrate flexibility and innovative thinking in problem-solving.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Completed and signed EPOS Checklist along with specified documents
- DAAD Application Form
- Europass CV Template
- Research proposal (max 13,000 characters, including spaces, plus references)
- One-page Abstract of Master thesis
- Reference letter from an academic supervisor
- Copy of higher secondary school certificate
- Proofs of internships (if any)
Selection Process
Evaluation of candidates may include assessment exercises, competency-based interviews, background checks, and references. Only shortlisted candidates will receive a contact for further steps.
Application Date and Process
- Click on the link to the application website to apply for this opportunity.
Scholarship Application Portal
View details of
UNU NEXtra Doctoral Scholarship Program 2024 in Germany
Apply for UNU NEXtra Doctoral Scholarship Program 2024 in Germany
