Junior Researcher Scholarship 2026 in Economics and Global Health Now Open for International Applicants
International students aspiring to pursue world-leading doctoral research in economics and global health now have a remarkable opportunity to join one of Europe’s most respected research environments. The Kiel Institute for the World Economy in Germany has officially opened applications for its Junior Researcher Scholarship 2026, a fully funded PhD position designed for talented graduates eager to contribute to global health policy, antimicrobial resistance studies, and health-economic research at an advanced level.
With applications closing 7 December 2025 and the program beginning 1 January 2026, this is an exciting call for early-career scholars who want to work at the intersection of economics, health sciences, and global policymaking.
A Leading Research Environment in Kiel
Located in the coastal city of Kiel, the Kiel Institute stands as one of Germany’s top centers for international economic research. The selected junior researcher will join the global health research team led by Dr. Michael Stolpe and become an active member of the Leibniz Research Alliance INFECTIONS, a major interdisciplinary initiative focused on health, epidemiology, biostatistics, and policy innovation. The institute collaborates widely with medical researchers, biologists, economists, and policymakers, making Kiel an outstanding place for pursuing a doctoral degree with real-world impact.
Research Focus and Program Structure
The three-year, full-time doctoral position is deeply integrated into a multi-year research project on antimicrobial resistance (AMR)—one of the world’s most urgent global health threats. The scholarship recipient will work on statistical and econometric analyses, health-economic modelling, policy incentives for antibiotic development, and evidence-based evaluations of health technologies. Beyond AMR, the research team also explores global health inequalities, digital health systems, infectious disease modeling, and the sustainable use of antibiotics in tuberculosis treatment worldwide.
This role offers the unique opportunity to contribute to the international Leibniz Lab “Pandemic Preparedness: One Health, One Future,” allowing the scholar to work at the frontlines of global health strategy. Over the three-year period, the junior researcher will complete a cumulative doctoral dissertation and gain hands-on research experience using large datasets and advanced empirical tools.
Funding Benefits and Employment Conditions
The Junior Researcher Scholarship provides full financial support, including a competitive salary based on the German public sector pay scale EG 13 TV-L at 95% of a full-time position, with the possibility of negotiating reduced working hours if needed. The appointment is funded for three years, beginning 1 January 2026, under the WissZeitVG research employment law.
In addition to financial support, the Kiel Institute offers an inclusive and family-friendly working environment. International candidates from all backgrounds are welcome, and qualified applicants with recognized disabilities receive preference. The institute ensures equal opportunities and strongly encourages women and underrepresented groups to apply.
Eligibility Requirements for Applicants
Applicants must hold a Master’s degree or equivalent in economics, health economics, biostatistics, epidemiology, bioinformatics, health sciences, public health, or a closely related field. Strong academic performance, a clear focus on quantitative research, and motivation to pursue a PhD in global health economics are essential.
Candidates should demonstrate experience or interest in:
- Empirical applications of economic theory
- Micro-econometrics or biostatistics
- Large health-data analysis
- Health-economic modeling
- Health policy reform concepts
Excellent English-language skills are mandatory, as English is the working language. Knowledge of German is helpful but not required. Familiarity with relevant software such as STATA, R, TreeAge, or MATLAB will significantly strengthen an application.
Important Timeline for 2026 Start
- Application Deadline: 7 December 2025
- Program Starting Date: 1 January 2026
- Duration: 3 years
- Location: Kiel, Germany
The Junior Researcher Scholarship 2026 offers a rare opportunity for international graduates to join a world-class research team and contribute meaningfully to global health and policy development. For talented individuals seeking a rigorous PhD pathway with real-world impact, this program stands out as a top choice for 2026.