Application Next-Geo Program

Who should apply?

Advanced PhD candidates and early Postdocs in economics from/in Europe:

• excellent CV and track record
• in economics, exceptionally also in closely related quantitative research fields
• working on geoeconomic research 
• enrolled or employed at a European university or research institution as a PhD student or early Postdoc (program start up to 2.5 years post-PhD). European nationals at overseas institutions may also be eligible in selected cases.
• excellent English skills 

The program is an add-on program for those conducting their PhD or PostDoc at a European institution. As such, it does not provide an employment contract, stipend, living expense allowance, or formal degree. We only fund travel and accommodation for on-site modules, and research support. Participants remain fully enrolled or employed at their home institution and will have no claim of employment or enrollment at the Kiel Institute. 

We particularly encourage applications from female researchers. All nationalities are eligible if employed or enrolled in Europe.

How to apply

Applications submitted by December 21, 2025 are guaranteed full consideration and should include:

• CV
• Cover letter
• 1-page research project sketch 
• Writing sample, e.g. third-year paper, job market paper
• Names of two potential references (contact information in your CV suffices)

Successful candidates will have to provide a proof of enrolment or employment and, if employed, a written permission by the employer to participate in the program. 

We aim to finalize the selection of the 2026 cohort by the end of January.