Fraunhofer-Bessel Research Award

Honours internationally recognised achievement in applied research and the prospect of lasting influence beyond the immediate speciality. Winners may undertake a research project of their choice with colleagues in Germany for six to twelve months, split across visits. Nominations are accepted at any time; the selection committee normally meets in March and October, with about six months needed for processing.

Internationally recognised researchers with a doctorate normally awarded within the last 18 years, with justified career-break exceptions. Nominees must have predominantly lived and worked outside Germany for at least five years, must not have entered permanent employment in Germany at selection, and must not previously have received a Humboldt research award. Self-nominations and nominations of close relatives or partners are excluded. Directors or leading researchers at a German Fraunhofer institute nominate. Humboldt award winners abroad may co-nominate with a Fraunhofer researcher.