Explore CAIS Research Fellowships offering 3–6 months of funded research time, accommodation, grants, and access to an interdisciplinary community focusing on the societal impact of digital transformation.
Introduction
As digital transformation reshapes societies worldwide, scholars and practitioners increasingly seek dedicated time and space to explore its impacts. The CAIS Research Fellowships provide exactly that—an inspiring, fully supported environment where innovative thinkers can immerse themselves in meaningful, future-oriented research.
Hosted in Bochum, Germany, the Center for Advanced Internet Studies (CAIS) invites researchers from diverse fields to step away from everyday pressures and join a vibrant interdisciplinary community committed to understanding and shaping digital change.
A Fellowship Built for Focus, Discovery, and Collaboration
The CAIS Fellowship is designed for individuals investigating the social, cultural, political, or ethical dimensions of digital transformation. Whether working in academia, civil society, policy, technology, or media, fellows gain the time and resources needed to pursue a project of their choice.
Fellows consistently describe the program as transformative. Dr. Alessia Tranchese, Associate Professor at the University of Portsmouth, explains the experience best:
“Coming from academia, where research time is always limited, I found that the fellowship gave me the time, support, and headspace to develop my research further. I was able to connect with an inspiring community of researchers working on a wide range of projects. It was an invaluable experience, both personally and professionally.”
Immersive Living and Learning in Bochum
During their stay, fellows spend three or six months at CAIS. These residencies are intentionally structured to provide:
✔ Concentration
Fellows receive fully equipped private offices and access to modern facilities. Quiet, dedicated workspaces help foster deep focus away from daily responsibilities.
✔ Inspiration
A community of scholars—spanning philosophy, computer science, sociology, law, political science, design, education, and more—creates a unique environment for intellectual exchange.
Weekly activities nurture this sense of community:
- Tuesday Breakfasts
- Wednesday Colloquium & Dinner
- Thursday Workshops
- Social gatherings & cross-disciplinary discussions
✔ Comfort
CAIS provides rent-free, fully furnished apartments in Bochum. This allows fellows to settle comfortably and concentrate fully on their research.
Fellowships begin in October or April for six-month stays, and in October, January, April, or July for three-month stays. Special arrangements can be discussed as needed.
Funding and Financial Support
The CAIS Fellowship is designed to eliminate financial barriers and ensure researchers can pursue their projects with stability and peace of mind.
Funding Options Include:
- €600 monthly grant for fellows on full sabbatical salary
- Coverage of salary or substitute costs when applicable
- €2,000 monthly grant for fellows without regular income
- Grants adjusted for lower-income applicants
- €100 monthly child allowance per dependent under 18
In Germany, most full and compensatory grants are tax-exempt, though fellows must verify this based on their residence status.
Additional Covered Support:
- Fully furnished private apartments (free)
- Private office space
- Travel expenses for one round trip to Bochum
- Funding for daily commuting if living nearby
Research and Collaboration Funding
Fellows may request:
- Research expense support
- Funding to invite a Visiting Fellow for up to 3 weeks
- Funding to host up to three European experts for half-day workshops
CAIS covers travel, accommodation, and allowances for invited guests.
A Thriving Global Network
The fellowship provides more than a temporary residency—it embeds participants into a long-term community of:
- Alumni
- Working groups
- International collaborators
- Interdisciplinary affiliates
Many fellows continue collaborating long after the fellowship ends, creating a meaningful ecosystem of research on digital transformation.
Who Should Apply?
The fellowship welcomes:
- Academics
- Policy experts
- Civil society leaders
- Journalists
- Artists
- Technology professionals
- Practitioners exploring societal digital issues
Applicants should be working on a project that examines or responds to the social implications of digital transformation.
Application & Selection Process
Applicants must submit:
- A project proposal
- CV
- Work plan for the fellowship duration
- Details about institutional affiliation (if any)
Selection favors projects that:
- Address relevant digital transformation challenges
- Are innovative and interdisciplinary
- Demonstrate societal value or policy relevance
Need Support?
For questions regarding eligibility, applications, or requirements, CAIS invites prospective fellows to contact:
Dr. Esther Laufer
Director, CAIS College
📞 +49 234 95315029
📧 [email protected]
Conclusion
The CAIS Fellowship offers an exceptional opportunity for researchers dedicated to understanding the societal impact of digital transformation. With generous funding, world-class facilities, interdisciplinary engagement, and an inspiring environment in Bochum, the fellowship empowers scholars to deepen their work, broaden their perspectives, and contribute to transformative digital futures.
APPLY HERE
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