Project Proposals

We are interested in innovative projects that focus on issues in the general field of International Politics or address issues of Structural Transformations as Challenge and Chance for Politics, Economy, and Society.

In nearly all regions of the world, major societal, technological and economic shifts are taking place and challenge established ideas and policy solutions. Beyond such immediate crises as large scale conflicts and the erosion of global governance institutions, international politics are shaped by the relationship between geopolitical shifts and domestic as well as transnational developments, often in the form of major structural changes.

Structural transformations are one of the greatest challenges for economies and societies. They manifest themselves in many different dimensions such as energy security, new technologies, new models of energy production and consumption, the transformation of basic infrastructures and the re-organisation of societies to adapt to and drive these changes, while new challenges keep arising. Nothing less than the future viability of societies and economies is at stake.

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) a complete list of publications, and

(5) electronic copies of 2-3 recent journal publications.

Expectations

Fellows are expected to reside in Bonn during their fellowship, i.e. for no less than three consecutive months. A regular attendance of research group meetings and colloquia, participation in events and willingness to contribute to the publication series are further requirements.

This call is for fellowships in the period between April 2026 and March 2027.