Max Planck Institute Dissertation Writing-up Fellowships: A Guide for Doctoral Candidates

The Max Planck Institute for Social Anthropology’s Law & Anthropology Department is offering Dissertation Writing-up Fellowships for 2027. This program provides a unique opportunity for doctoral candidates in the final stages of their research to focus on completing their dissertations in a stimulating academic environment. The fellowship is particularly suited for those pursuing PhDs in anthropology, offering a chance to engage with interdisciplinary research and contribute to policy-relevant discussions.

Key Takeaways

• The Max Planck Institute for Social Anthropology offers Dissertation Writing-up Fellowships for doctoral candidates in the final stages of their research.
• Fellowships last up to four months and include a tax-free monthly living stipend.
• Applicants must be advanced in their PhD, preferably in anthropology, and willing to participate in departmental activities.
• Required application materials include a cover letter, CV, writing sample, PhD summary, degree copies, and a supervisor recommendation letter.

About the Law & Anthropology Department

The Law & Anthropology Department at the Max Planck Institute for Social Anthropology serves as a hub for scholars from both anthropology and legal fields. It fosters an environment where cutting-edge research can flourish, with a specific focus on the increasing interactions and exchanges between different legal systems, countries, and communities. The department actively seeks research proposals that address the growing need for empirically grounded knowledge, especially within the diverse European context. This fellowship is designed to support doctoral candidates who are contributing to this vital area of study.

Fellowship Benefits and Duration

Successful applicants will receive a fellowship for a period of up to four months. The institute provides a monthly living stipend, which is not subject to taxes or social security contributions. This financial support allows fellows to dedicate their full attention to writing their dissertations without the immediate pressure of other employment obligations. The goal is to provide a conducive atmosphere for completing the final stages of doctoral work.

Eligibility Requirements

This fellowship is open to doctoral candidates who are in the final stages of their PhD programs. While priority is given to applicants working towards PhDs in anthropology, candidates from related fields may also be considered. The Max Planck Society is committed to promoting gender equality and diversity, and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds. Applicants should be prepared to actively participate in the department’s activities during their fellowship.

Expectations During the Fellowship

Fellows are expected to contribute to the intellectual life of the Law & Anthropology Department. This includes participating in departmental activities and presenting their research. A key expectation is the submission of a working paper that reflects the research undertaken during the fellowship period. Additionally, fellows will present their doctoral research as part of the department’s seminar series. A clear understanding and agreement will be established between the department director and the candidate’s principal supervisor regarding how the candidate can best benefit from the fellowship and how the home university and the Max Planck Institute can collaborate effectively.

Application Process

To apply for the Max Planck Institute for Social Anthropology Dissertation Writing-up Fellowships, candidates must submit the following materials:

• A cover letter detailing your interest in the fellowship and the department.
• A curriculum vitae (CV) outlining your academic and research experience.
• A writing sample, typically a chapter from your PhD dissertation.
• A summary of your PhD work, between one and two pages long.
• Photocopies of your university degrees and academic transcripts.
• A letter of recommendation from your principal supervisor. This letter must confirm that you are sufficiently advanced in your doctoral work to finalize your manuscript within the fellowship period. The supervisor should send this letter directly to the department at [email protected].

How to Apply

Interested candidates can submit their applications through the Max Planck Institute’s online recruitment portal.

Click here to apply

For further details about the fellowship program, you can visit the official description page:

Dissertation Writing-up Fellowships

Conclusion

The Max Planck Institute for Social Anthropology Dissertation Writing-up Fellowships offer a valuable opportunity for advanced doctoral candidates to dedicate themselves to completing their dissertations. By providing financial support and an intellectually rich environment, the program aims to help scholars finalize their research and contribute to the growing field of law and anthropology. The application process requires careful preparation of all necessary documents, and interested individuals are encouraged to review the eligibility criteria and application guidelines thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions