Fundamental Academic Values Award 2026: Call for Early Career Researchers

4. 6. 2026

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) has announced the new call for applications for the Fundamental Academic Values Award 2026, which recognizes outstanding research on fundamental academic values within the European Higher Education Area (EHEA).

The award is open to early career researchers from all academic disciplines and nationalities who obtained a Master’s or Doctoral degree in 2021 or later and have published research related to one or more fundamental academic values. These include academic freedom, academic integrity, institutional autonomy, participation of students and staff in higher education governance, and the public responsibility of higher education.

Applications must be based on an academic publication published in 2021 or later that contributes to the discussion of fundamental academic values within the EHEA. Three outstanding researchers will be selected and awarded for their contributions.

The prize winners will receive:

  • EUR 7,000 for first place,
  • EUR 6,000 for second place,
  • EUR 5,000 for third place.

In addition, awardees will be invited to present their research at an international conference scheduled for late 2026 or early 2027. Travel and accommodation costs will be covered by DAAD.

The application deadline is 22 June 2026.

Detailed eligibility criteria, application requirements, and submission instructions can be found in the attached PDF document.


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