Friedrich Wilhelm Bessel Research Award

Recognises outstanding research accomplishments and the prospect of influential future achievements across disciplines. 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. Established researchers at German research institutions nominate. Humboldt award winners abroad may co-nominate with a researcher in Germany.