foundation fellowship
Across disciplines and every stage of advanced study
Empowering tomorrow’s leaders by transforming academic knowledge into action
approach & focus
The Foundation Fellowship supports talented individuals pursuing advanced study across all disciplines who demonstrate strong potential for innovation and global leadership.
We aim for our fellows to excel academically and develop projects with a lasting impact on global communities while advancing their careers.
eligibility & procedure
Funding is tailored to each fellow’s academic programme, location and financial circumstances. It may cover tuition, living costs, travel, accommodation, materials and project costs. Fellows may also apply for Opportunity Grants.
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Each year, a pool of 20 candidates pursuing advanced study is drawn from nominations submitted by our partnering institutions. Candidates from all disciplines and professional backgrounds are considered, provided they demonstrate:
Good academic standing and professional achievement
Strong potential for innovation and global leadership
Meaningful volunteering or community engagement
Initiative and the ability to turn ideas into action
Selection is primarily based on merit, with consideration given to achievements, experience and potential beyond academic grades.
Applicants are also asked to provide a statement describing their financial circumstances to help us determine the level of support.
Partnering Institutions
Royal College of Art (London, United Kingdom)
International Max Planck Research School (Berlin, Germany)
Technische Universität Berlin (Berlin, Germany)
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Candidates apply directly through the Foundation’s online application portal. The Foundation reviews applications, refers shortlisted candidates to the jury for assessment and voting, and then conducts interviews. Selection follows published assessment criteria. Funding is tailored to each selected fellow’s circumstances.
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Fellows are expected to complete their academic programme and take part in monthly check-ins with Foundation staff to discuss their studies, progress and developing ideas. After graduation, they receive direct admission to the Project Accelerator without a separate application process.
our fellows
Roman Sprick
2025 Graduate Fellow
International Max Planck Research School (Berlin, Germany)
“As a biomedical scientist, my work is grounded in the belief that rigorous research and interdisciplinary education are key to advancing human health at its core. With support from a foundation that values both scientific excellence and cultural depth, I’m committed to transforming organoid research into real-world therapies for complex gastrointestinal diseases.”
Cezary Rucki
2024 Graduate Fellow
Royal College of Art (London, United Kingdom)
“As an artist and storyteller, I’m driven by the belief that creativity can illuminate overlooked narratives and spark lasting change. Through projects like Unraveling the Identities of Ghetto Classics, I explore how music empowers communities at the margins—supported by an environment that promotes artistic excellence and social insight across disciplines. ”
apply
Candidates pursuing advanced study across all disciplines
can apply directly through our online application portal.
Partner institutions and universities are invited to include the Foundation Fellowship within their scholarship opportunities pools and direct interested students to contact fellowship@althafen-foundation.org.
