The Centre for Applied Turkey Studies (CATS) is now accepting applications for its prestigious CATS Fellowship Programs 2025–2026 in Berlin, Germany. These fully funded research fellowships are open to international students, scholars, policy practitioners, and think tank members from all nationalities. Whether you’re exploring Turkey’s domestic politics, social transformations, or its geopolitical relationships with the EU, NATO, or neighboring countries, this fellowship provides an excellent opportunity to engage in meaningful research and policy dialogue in one of Europe’s leading think tank environments.
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Summary of CATS Fellowship 2025:
- Host Organization: Centre for Applied Turkey Studies (CATS)
- Host Institution: Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik (SWP), Berlin
- Duration: 6 to 12 months
- Location: Germany
- Fellowship Type: Fully Funded
- Application Deadline: 12 May 2025
- Eligible Candidates: International scholars, researchers, and policy experts
About the CATS Fellowship Programs
Offered by CATS at the German Institute for International and Security Affairs (SWP), this fully funded opportunity invites fellows to undertake policy-relevant research on contemporary Turkey. This includes its internal developments, regional role, and international relations. The fellowship is ideal for those seeking to contribute to evidence-based policymaking in an era of dynamic global challenges and shifting EU-Turkey relations.
Applicants without a PhD but with a strong academic background on Turkey are also encouraged to apply. Fellows will collaborate closely with SWP and CATS researchers, contributing to the production of peer-reviewed publications and policy briefs.
What the Fellowship Covers
Selected fellows will receive:
- A monthly stipend of €2,800 to €3,000, based on experience
- Round-trip travel costs to and from Berlin
- Research budget for project-related activities
- Family support, if relocating with children
- Opportunity to publish in SWP/CATS journals
- Access to Berlin’s international academic and policy network
Eligible Research Themes
The CATS Fellowship supports projects focused on:
- Turkey’s political, social, or cultural developments
- EU-Turkey and transatlantic relations
- Security, migration, or defense policies involving Turkey
- Diaspora studies and regional dynamics
- The intersection of academic research and practical policymaking
Applicants are expected to bridge theoretical research with policy impact, contributing valuable insights to European and international policy discussions.
Eligibility Criteria for CATS Fellowship Programs
Candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Be policy researchers, early-career scholars, or professionals with significant interest in Turkey-related studies
- Have a solid track record in academic or applied research
- Demonstrate the ability to connect research to real-world policy issues
Both PhD holders and PhD candidates with demonstrated progress are eligible to apply.
Documents Required
Applications must include:
- A one-page cover letter specifying your proposed start date and preferred fellowship duration
- A detailed research proposal (max. 5 pages) covering:
- Title, objectives, and policy relevance
- Literature review and research context
- Methodology and theoretical framework
- References list
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Scanned academic transcripts
How to Apply
To apply for the CATS Fellowship 2025:
- Send your complete application as a single PDF file to: CATS@swp-berlin.org
- Deadline: 12 May 2025
- Incomplete or late applications will not be considered
- Applicants are advised to review SWP’s data privacy policy. Objections can be addressed via email.
Official Website & Resources
For complete program details and updates, visit the CATS Fellowship official page.
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