Bayer Foundation Opens Applications for Fellowship for STEM Student Teachers & Teachers 2026 (Up to €10,000 Funding)

The Bayer Foundation has officially opened applications for its Fellowship for STEM Student Teachers and Teachers, offering funding of up to €10,000 for education and research activities connected to “Trust in Science.” Applications open on February 18 and close on April 15, 2026. This program supports trainee teachers, pedagogy students, and qualified STEM educators currently studying or working in Germany.

About the Fellowship

This fellowship is designed for people who teach science — and those preparing to do so. It supports internships, training programs, school research projects, and workshops in Germany or abroad for up to 12 months.

Every funded activity must clearly connect to Trust in Science, helping educators strengthen scientific thinking, data skills, and communication in classrooms.

The fellowship honors the legacy of Kurt Hansen, former Chairman of Bayer’s Board of Management.

What “Trust in Science” Means

Bayer Foundation defines Trust in Science as helping students:

• Understand scientific basics

• Learn how scientific methods work

• Analyze and use data for decisions (data literacy)

• Explain science in simple terms

• Critically evaluate scientific content in media

The goal is to help teachers pass these skills on to future generations.

Who Can Apply?

Only applicants currently studying or working in Germany are eligible.

You may apply if you are:

• A trainee teacher or pedagogy student (Bachelor, Master, PhD, Staatsexamen) in STEM

• A qualified teacher with up to 10 years of experience in STEM subjects

Funding Details

• Maximum grant: €10,000 (one-time payment)

• Duration: up to 12 months

• Internships and research projects: up to 6 months

• Training and professional development: up to 1 year

Funds may be used for travel, housing, living costs, visa fees, course fees, and learning materials (excluding laptops or tablets).

What Activities Are Supported?

You can apply for funding for:

• Teaching or research internships

• School-based research projects

• STEM training programs or summer schools

• Workshops on science communication

• Data literacy or citizen science programs

All activities must clearly support Trust in Science.

Application Timeline

• Applications open: 18 February 2026

• Deadline: 15 April 2026 (23:59 CET)

• Results announced: 1 July 2026

• Project period: 1 August 2026 – 31 December 2027

Applications are accepted only through Bayer Foundation’s online portal and must be submitted in German.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare:

• CV

• Academic certificates and transcripts

• Recommendation letter

• 1-minute motivation video

• Project or training description

• Budget plan

• Proof of host institution (for internships or research projects)

Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

Selection Process

Applications are first checked by Bayer Foundation for eligibility and completeness. An independent jury then evaluates candidates based on:

• Quality and relevance of the proposal

• Motivation and potential

• Expected impact of the fellowship

Equal Opportunity

Applicants with disabilities or chronic conditions are strongly encouraged to apply. Individual background and personal development are considered during evaluation.

Contact Information

For questions, applicants may contact:

📧 [email protected]

For More Opportunities Please Click Here.

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