Q&A – About the Freiburg Rising Stars Academy
Who is eligible to apply?
Currently enrolled PhD students regardless of academic year and Post-Docs are welcome to apply.
Do I need to be a citizen of a specific country to be eligible for application?
No, this programme is open to all international students residing outside of Freiburg at the time of their application.
What is the difference between Track 1 and Track 2 application?
The FRSA offers two application tracks to ensure optimal matching between PIs and fellows.
Track 1 allows you to choose a specific PI based on your selection criteria and research interests.
Track 2 enables us to match you with the best PI for your research project idea if you are unsure of the best fit.
Who reviews my application?
Your application will be reviewed by a panel of experts in the relevant fields.
What does the application include?
You must complete the online application and submit it by the set deadline. The PDF form requires key information about your academic journey, research interests, and your chosen Track. After its review, the FRSA team will contact you via email regarding the status of your application and any next steps you must take.
Can I reapply for the FRSA if my application is rejected?
Yes, you can apply for the next cohort session once the new application dates have been announced.
Can I apply with a colleague as a team?
Applications are individual, and joint research projects cannot be considered.
What can my Research Project be?
You are encouraged to pursue any research topic that sparks your scientific interest and aligns with the research foci of the FRSA. Fellows can explore a wide range of project ideas, which do not necessarily have to connect to their PhD or previous research. This could include gaining lab experience, addressing gaps in their academic careers, or further developing specific aspects of their prior work.
Who could be my PI?
PIs are recruited anew before the launching of the biannual programme, and once the list is announced, prospective fellows can directly apply to wok under their guidance (Track 1). Future RSs can also collaborate with any other affiliated member of the institutions participating in the programme (Track 2). The updated list of PIs for each cohort can be found here.
Who is eligible for the Residence programme?
Rising Stars selected for their promising research projects by the end of the Conference Week will be invited to join the three-month Residence programme in Freiburg. Those who officially accept the offer will receive a grant covering travel and accommodation expenses up to €5,000.
How is the Residence stage organised?
Participants in the Residence programme can stay for a minimum of 4 consecutive weeks and a maximum of 3 months (90 days). Residences are available between May and December, allowing flexibility in scheduling within this timeframe.
Do I need to organise housing by myself?
No, accommodation will be arranged by the FRSA team following your successful application and confirmation of participation. For the week-long Conference, the FRSA covers all expenses for travel, meals, and hotel accommodation for participants. For FRSA candidates selected to participate in the Residence stage, travel expenses and accommodation are covered by a $5,000 fellowship, supporting a stay of up to three months.
What happens if I miss out on the first day of the Conference?
Confirmation of your attendance at the Conference Week is binding, and full participation each day is essential. We highly encourage you to be present for the entire duration to fully benefit from the experience and engage with fellow participants and activities.
What do I do if I arrive late at Freiburg for either stage of the FRSA?
Contact your Coordinator promptly so that they can assist with your arrival and ensure you are integrated smoothly with the rest of your cohort.
I don’t speak German. Will that be a problem?
Not speaking German is fine, especially within the university environment. Freiburg is very international, and most locals speak some English, making everyday transactions manageable. There are also events catering to English-speaking audiences and German classes available at a minimal fee through the university for those interested.
- You are strongly encouraged to begin your visa application as early as possible after being admitted to the programme. We can provide invitation letters from the university or provisional hotel booking confirmations to expedite the process.
- Upon arrival, you will receive a MensaCard granting you access to our multiple canteens and cafeterias during your stay in Freibug. Please return the UniCard to our office before you depart.
