Project Proposals

We are interested in innovative projects that focus on issues within the broader field of international politics or that address matters of “Comprehensive Security for a Changing World. Building Resilient Strategies and Technologies“.

Europe is facing a major geopolitical shift marked by open conflicts, rising global competition, and weakening alliances, which has brought security and resilience to the forefront of political debate. Today, security is understood broadly, encompassing not only defence but also democratic stability, critical infrastructure, technological governance, and economic resilience. Addressing these complex, interconnected challenges requires new strategic thinking and closer cooperation, as exemplified by initiatives like Germany’s Zeitenwende.

In this context, the fellowship programme brings together scholars and practitioners from diverse fields to explore how comprehensive security approaches can inform more integrated strategies. It welcomes projects on topics such as defence and security cooperation, governance frameworks, emerging technologies, supply-chain security, and the resilience of democratic societies, as well as analytical methods like strategic foresight and risk analysis, drawing on expertise from a wide range of disciplines in international security and resilience.

Applicants can apply to one of the following two tracks:

(a) Academic Track
For projects that have an explicit academic focus, linking up to ongoing or emerging academic debates, and provide a clear objective on how they contribute to a better understanding of international politics.

(b) Practitioner’s Track
For projects that reflect on international politics from the perspective of practical experience in a relevant professional field and provide a clear objective on how they contribute to a better understanding of international politics.

Application

Applicants need to submit (a) form for applicants (see below) and (b) the following documents compiled in one PDF:

(1) a letter of motivation;

(2) a proposal of their envisaged academic project at AIA NRW (max. 5 pages including an abstract; including guiding (research) questions, a brief summary of the state of research in the respective field, a specific work plan/timetable and targeted outputs as well as the expected added value of the stay in Bonn in the particular environment of AIA NRW);

(3) a short CV (max. 2 pages).

Additionally for the academic track:

(4) certified documentation of their PhD certificate;

(5) a complete list of publications, and

(6) electronic copies of 2-3 recent (journal) publications (in English).

Expectations

Fellows are expected to reside in Bonn during their fellowship, i.e. with no longer absences during the time of their fellowship. A regular attendance of research formats and colloquia, participation in events and willingness to contribute to the publication series are further requirements. Interest in societal transfer activities and social media engagement is also welcome.

This call pertains to fellowships in the period between April 2027 and March 2028.