Q&A – About the Freiburg Rising Stars Academy
Who is eligible to apply?
Currently enrolled PhD students with at least two years of experience and Post-Docs are welcome to apply.
Do I need to be a citizen of a specific country to be eligible for application?
The programme is open to all European and international citizens, regardless of their current residence (including Germany). German citizens currently employed as researchers outside Germany, who have not resided in Germany for at least two years are also eligible to apply (Rückkehrer*innen).
Can I apply if my employment at my current research institution ends before the Freiburg Rising Stars Academy?
Your eligibility is not hindered by the length of your PhD/postdoc contract. You must be only employed at the time of the application and ideally through the CONFERENCE Week.
What does “Postdoc” mean?
The mention of “Postdoc” doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to work as a postdoctoral researcher while you participate in the Freiburg Rising Stars Academy. It is simply to suggest that you have completed your PhD and are looking to pursue a further career in academia or research.
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 your potential Host-PI as well as the host institution.
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, but joint research projects may be considered. Please inquire before completing the application with the FRSA team and a prospective Host.
Do I need to reach out to my desired host PI before applying?
You are not required to contact a Host-PI before listing them in your application. However, reaching out in advance can be helpful. It gives you a chance to clarify mutual research interests and expectations, and may strengthen your proposal overall.
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 intended host institution / host-PI. Rising Stars 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. The “project” of the Rising Stars Academy can be anything from shared publication to funding applications.
Who could be my PI?
PIs are recruited anew before the launching of the biannual programme, and once the list is announced, prospective Rising Stars can directly apply to work under their guidance (Track 1). Future RS 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 phase in Freiburg. Those who officially accept the offer will have their travel and accommodation expenses covered up to €5,000. There is currently no stipends / salary in place for Rising Stars in RESIDENCE.
How is the Residence phase organised?
Participants in the Residence phase 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 time frame.
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, hotel accommodation and most meals for participants. For FRSA candidates selected to participate in the Residence phase, travel expenses and accommodation are covered up to €5,000, 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 required. We highly encourage you to be present for the entire duration to fully benefit from the experience and engage with fellow participants and activities. Rising Stars should plan for travel on the Sunday (or weekend) before the Conference.
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.
- When contacting potential the FRSA team or even host PIs, please write a professional and polite message. It’s your first impression, and it really counts. Use a clear subject line, greet your recipient properly, introduce yourself briefly, and explain why you’re reaching out. This doesn’t need to be overly formal, but it should reflect your genuine interest and respect.
- If you want to use AI tools to help structure your thoughts, that’s perfectly fine. But clarity, specificity, and authenticity are key. Your final application should be personal and clearly reflect your own voice. Generic or impersonal submissions stand out for the wrong reasons. The clearer your message, the better your chances, so take the time to revise and tailor your materials carefully.
