Application Deadline: 12 April 2026
Apply Now for the Fully Funded NEXtra Doctoral Scholarship Programme 2027 Supported by DAAD-EPOS
Overview of the NEXtra Doctoral Scholarship Programme
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), through its EPOS (Development-Related Postgraduate Courses) funding initiative, is offering fully funded doctoral scholarships lasting up to 42 months. This includes a two-month intensive German language course at the beginning of the scholarship. The funding supports doctoral research within the framework of the NEXtra Programme, which focuses on the Resource Nexus.
Doctoral candidates selected for this programme will be enrolled in a collaborative joint doctoral programme conducted by the United Nations University (UNU) and Technische Universität Dresden (TUD). Their research will be supervised by experts from UNU-FLORES, TUD, and/or the Leibniz Institute for Ecological Urban and Regional Development (IOER), including guidance from the Dresden Leibniz Graduate School (DLGS).
Research proposals must be grounded in the Resource Nexus framework, address one of the specific 2026 thematic topics, contribute towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, and focus on well-defined, evidence-based challenges pertinent to the candidate’s home region.
About the United Nations University (UNU)
The United Nations University (UNU) functions as a global think tank and postgraduate education entity within the UN system. UNU’s mission revolves around policy-oriented research, capacity building, and knowledge dissemination aligned with the goals and principles of the United Nations.
For over fifty years, UNU has provided unbiased research on critical global issues such as sustainability, human security, and socio-economic development. With a network of researchers spanning 12 countries, UNU’s expertise comprehensively covers the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, generating impactful knowledge that helps shape global policy and progress. UNU collaborates extensively with other UN bodies and leading research institutions worldwide.
About UNU-FLORES
UNU-FLORES, the United Nations University Institute for Integrated Management of Material Fluxes and of Resources, is one of 13 research and training institutes under the UNU umbrella. It is dedicated to pioneering sustainable strategies for the integrated management of environmental resources such as water, soil, waste, energy, and other geo-resources.
Situated in Dresden and Weißwasser, Germany, UNU-FLORES focuses its work especially on challenges faced by developing and emerging economies. Its activities include cutting-edge research and innovation, education and capacity development, as well as advocacy and outreach to promote the Resource Nexus concept.
Details of the NEXtra Doctoral Scholarship Programme
Within the framework of the EPOS (Development-Related Postgraduate Courses) initiative, DAAD offers fully funded doctoral scholarships lasting up to 42 months, inclusive of a preparatory two-month German language course. This funding supports doctoral research projects linked to the NEXtra Project.
Successful applicants will enrol in one of the doctoral programmes jointly administered by UNU and TU Dresden. Their supervision will be provided by specialists from UNU-FLORES, Technische Universität Dresden, and/or the Leibniz Institute for Ecological Urban and Regional Development and its Dresden Leibniz Graduate School.
Doctoral research will take place in Germany, focusing on topics related to the Resource Nexus as a framework for sustainability transformations that support the Sustainable Development Goals. Additionally, candidates will work closely with the United Nations system and contribute actively to its global efforts.
The research proposals should be designed to promote transformative sustainability initiatives that are actionable and tailored to the specific needs and contexts of the applicant’s home region, based on solid evidence.
Applicants have the option to apply for up to two thematic topics by submitting a single application with two distinct research proposals, each aligned with one of the chosen topics.
Roles and Responsibilities of NEXtra Doctoral Researchers
As a doctoral researcher within the NEXtra project, you will be a vital part of the consortium’s research teams, driving forward investigations into the Resource Nexus and its role in sustainability transformations. Your work will encompass three principal areas:
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Research and Innovation Development
You will dedicate approximately 80–90% of your efforts to conducting advanced research and producing scientific writings. This includes:
- Completing the doctoral curriculum, which includes modules focused on the Resource Nexus;
- Developing and applying a comprehensive research methodology that advances knowledge within your specified topic area, ensuring strong links to the Resource Nexus and relevant UN frameworks;
- Publishing mandatory peer-reviewed journal articles in compliance with the doctoral requirements of the respective TU Dresden faculty;
- Preparing a cumulative dissertation (framework paper) and successfully defending it orally within the stipulated timeline;
- Participating actively in NEXtra doctoral cohort activities, submitting regular progress reports, and maintaining current project documentation.
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Education and Capacity Development
Roughly 5–10% of your time will be devoted to educational activities such as:
- Successfully fulfilling all requirements of the doctoral curriculum stipulated by UNU-FLORES and partner institutions;
- Delivering at least one lecture annually for programmes like CIPSEM, guest lectures at TU Dresden, or other collaborating institutions;
- Contributing to the creation of innovative educational materials;
- Supporting the teaching and supervision of Master’s students to facilitate knowledge transfer on the Resource Nexus.
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Outreach, Advocacy, and Impact
Allocate about 5–10% of your time to advocacy efforts and outreach activities, including:
- Engaging with key contacts within the United Nations system to align research outcomes with policy needs and encourage uptake;
- Translating research results into actionable policy briefs;
- Representing the institute at scientific and implementation-focused conferences;
- Promoting the Resource Nexus and UNU-FLORES through periodic social media posts and the creation of communication materials.
Performance Metrics
- Research and Innovation Development:
- Publication of at least three peer-reviewed scientific articles in accordance with TU Dresden’s doctoral guidelines;
- Completion of the cumulative framework dissertation and successful oral defense;
- Active involvement in NEXtra doctoral activities, timely progress reporting, and maintenance of up-to-date project data. - Education and Capacity Development:
- Completion of the required doctoral curriculum;
- Timely submission of all educational plans and reports;
- Delivery of at least one lecture or educational session annually;
- Contributions of educational modules or materials to knowledge-sharing platforms like KARE;
- Academic mentorship or co-supervision of Master’s students. - Outreach, Advocacy, and Impact:
- Establish and maintain collaborations with at least one UN system contact to ensure research-policy alignment;
- Publication of at least one policy brief based on research findings;
- Representation at a minimum of one major conference;
- Maintaining an active advocacy presence, including at least two to three professional social media posts per reporting cycle to promote the Resource Nexus.
Core Competencies and Values
- Inclusion: Foster an environment of respect and dignity for all individuals, regardless of age, culture, disability, ethnicity, gender, geography, language, nationality, religion, or any other identity dimension.
- Integrity: Uphold the highest ethical standards, adhering to UN codes of conduct, and take prompt action against any unethical or unprofessional behavior.
- Humility: Demonstrate self-awareness and openness to learning from others.
- Humanity: Act in alignment with the United Nations’ core principles of peace, dignity, equality, and environmental stewardship.
Eligibility and Qualifications
Mandatory requirements:
- Citizenship from one of the countries listed in the List of eligible countries for DAAD-EPOS scholarship;
- An excellent academic record with a Master’s degree achieving a grade of 2.5 or better according to the German system;
- The Master’s degree must be relevant to the chosen topic and obtained within six years prior to the application deadline;
- At least two years of pertinent professional experience after the initial degree (typically a Bachelor’s);
- Applicants must not have resided in Germany for more than 15 months by the application deadline;
- Proficiency in English is required.
Desirable qualifications include:
- Strong scientific background and methodological expertise relevant to the selected research topic;
- Experience with transdisciplinary or interdisciplinary research, such as through a research-oriented Master’s thesis or relevant work;
- A keen interest and prior academic or professional experience in at least one of the following areas: sustainability and sustainable development, development cooperation, or the Resource Nexus;
- Ability to manage complex tasks with strong analytical skills;
- Excellent skills in writing and presenting research findings;
- Effective planning, organization, and time management abilities, alongside clear communication in diverse contexts including academia and the UN system;
- Flexibility and adaptability to prioritize work and meet deadlines;
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively in multicultural and diverse environments;
- Knowledge of German and/or other official UN languages is an advantage.
Duration and Financial Support
The DAAD-EPOS scholarship provides a monthly stipend of EUR 1,400 for up to 42 months to cover living and educational expenses throughout the doctoral period. The doctoral programme itself is tuition-free; however, students are responsible for paying the semester fees to TU Dresden, which amount to approximately EUR 300-350 per semester for enrollment purposes.
The scholarship package also includes health insurance coverage and intensive, in-person German language classes held in February and March 2027. Additionally, a travel and research allowance is provided, with detailed information communicated to successful nominees.
It is mandatory that the selected doctoral candidates reside at the institute in Dresden, Germany, for the entire duration of their studies.
