Call for Applications: CATS Fellowships 2025/2026 (Centre for Applied Turkey Studies)
The Centre for Applied Turkey Studies (CATS) at Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik (SWP), the German Institute for International and Security Affairs (SWP) in Berlin, is offering fellowships to researchers, think tank members, and practitioners working on Turkey-related issues.
Researchers who have not yet completed their PhD but have a solid track record in research on Turkey may also apply.
Turkey’s strategic location, its NATO membership, its economic ties with the EU, the rapid progress of its arms industry, its growing presence in the Caucasus, Central Asia, the Middle East and Africa, its centrality for migration routes both as a transit and host country, and the complex dynamics within the Turkish diaspora across Europe make the country an indispensable actor for Germany and the EU.
Yet, divergences in interests, perceptions and visions also abound and are weakening the basis for mutual trust.
All of this renders sound analyses of the Turkish political landscape, societal developments, and foreign and security policy orientations highly relevant to Germany and Europe. This is heightened amid growing regional and global uncertainties.
To this end, CATS offers fellowships for the funding period 2025/2026. We welcome applications on topics in a variety of areas, ranging from political and social dynamics within Turkey to the country’s position in the European and transatlantic system and its surrounding regions.
Applicants are encouraged to build linkages between their proposed research and applicable policy. Evidence of extensive research experience and significant publications, both in number and relevance, would be an asset
Recap – CATS Fellowships 2025/2026
- Type: Fellowship
- Location: Berlin, Germany
- Duration: 6 to 12 Months
- Funding Type: Fully Funded
- Eligible Countries: All
- Perks: Grant of €2,800 – €3,000 + Child Allowance, Travel Allowance to/from Germany, Budget for Research Trips, etc
- Deadline: 12th May, 2025
Criterias – CATS Fellowships 2025/2026
- Applicants from all around the world are eligible.
- The fellowships are open to:
- Experienced researchers.
- Think tank members.
- Policy professionals working on Turkey-related issues.
- Early-career scholars with a proven research track record, including PhD candidates with significant progress in Turkey-focused studies.
CATS Fellowships 2025/2026 – Theme and Objectives
This is a fully funded fellowship in Germany for international researchers, think tank members, and practitioners working on Turkey-related issues.
 Turkey is a very important country for Germany and the EU for several reasons:
- Strategic Location: It’s a bridge between Europe and Asia, crucial for trade and energy routes.
- NATO Ally:Â Being a member of NATO makes it a key partner for security.
- Economic Ties:Â It has strong economic links with the EU.
- Growing Influence: Turkey’s influence is increasing in regions like the Caucasus, Central Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.
- Migration Hub: It’s a central point for migration to Europe, both for people passing through and those who stay.
- Large Diaspora:Â Many Turkish people live in Europe, creating complex social and political connections.
It is crucial for Germany and Europe to really understand what’s happening in Turkish politics, society, and its foreign policy, especially with so much uncertainty around the world.
Aspiring researchers with a strong research background focused on Turkey are also encouraged to apply, even if they haven’t yet completed their PhD.
The Program Covers:
- A Grant of €2,800 – €3,000
- Travel Allowance to/from Germany
- Budget for Research Trips
- Planned research trips
- Child Allowance
Required DocumentsÂ
- Cover letter
- Written proposal
- CV
- Academic transcripts
- Academic diplomas
Deadline: 12th May, 2025