The CATS Fellowships 2025/2026 offer a prestigious, fully funded opportunity for researchers, policy professionals, and think tank members worldwide to conduct in-depth studies on Turkey-related issues. Hosted by the Centre for Applied Turkey Studies (CATS) at the Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik (SWP) in Berlin, Germany, this fellowship aims to foster scholarly work that bridges academic research and policy-making.
The Centre for Applied Turkey Studies (CATS) is part of the SWP (Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik), a Berlin-based think tank renowned for its contributions to German and European foreign and security policy. CATS was established to provide a platform for independent and policy-relevant research on Turkey, and it focuses on fostering dialogue between researchers from Europe, Turkey, and beyond.
The CATS Fellowships are designed to support visiting researchers who bring innovative perspectives and projects that align with the Centre’s objectives. During their stay, fellows are expected to engage with SWP staff, contribute to joint research activities, and participate in academic and policy discussions
Fellows selected for this program will have the chance to work within one of Europe’s leading foreign policy research institutions, network with influential academics and policymakers, and contribute to important policy debates regarding Turkey’s evolving role in the region and globally
Fellowship Overview
- Host Institution: Centre for Applied Turkey Studies (CATS) at SWP
- Location: Berlin, Germany
- Duration: 6 to 12 months
- Start Date: No earlier than September 2025
- Application Deadline: 12 May 2025
Financial Benefits
The CATS Fellowship is fully funded, providing comprehensive support to fellows:
- Monthly Stipend: €2,800 to €3,000, depending on experience
- Travel Allowance: Round-trip airfare to and from Germany
- Research Budget: Funding for fieldwork and research-related travel
- Family Support: Additional allowance for fellows accompanied by children
Research Focus Areas
Fellows are expected to engage in research that offers policy-relevant insights into Turkey’s:
- Political and social dynamics
- Foreign and security policy orientations
- Role in European and transatlantic relations
- Influence in neighboring regions
The fellowship encourages projects that contribute to a deeper understanding of Turkey’s position in regional and global contexts.
Eligibility Criteria
The fellowship is open to applicants worldwide, including:
- Experienced Researchers: Scholars with a substantial track record in Turkey-related studies
- Think Tank Members: Professionals affiliated with policy research institutions
- Policy Practitioners: Individuals engaged in policy-making or advisory roles
- Advanced Doctoral Candidates: Ph.D. students with significant progress in relevant research areas
Applicants should demonstrate a strong commitment to producing work that bridges academic inquiry and policy application.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit the following documents in a single PDF file:
- Cover Letter: Indicating preferred start date and duration of the fellowship
- Research Proposal (max 5 pages): Including project title, objectives, methodology, policy relevance, literature review, and bibliography
- Curriculum Vitae: Detailing academic background and list of publications
- Academic Transcripts and Diplomas: No translations required
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Application Process
- Submission: Email the complete application as a single PDF document to cats@swp-berlin.org
- Deadline: 12 May 2025
- Selection Criteria: Applications will be evaluated based on academic merit, policy relevance, originality, feasibility, and potential impact. Preference may be given to applicants who have not previously received CATS funding.
Additional Information
Fellows are expected to reside in Berlin for the duration of the fellowship, with exceptions for approved research trips. They will have the opportunity to collaborate with CATS and SWP researchers and may publish their findings through CATS/SWP outlets.
Official Website
For more details and updates, please visit the official CATS Network website:
This fellowship represents a unique opportunity to contribute to the understanding of Turkey’s evolving role in international affairs while engaging with a vibrant research community in Berlin. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply early and ensure their application package is complete.
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