Are you passionate about sustainability and eager to make a global impact through research? The Resource Nexus for Sustainability Transformations (NEXtra) Doctoral Scholarship Programme is now open for applications!

About UNU:

The United Nations University (UNU) is a global community of scholars dedicated to policy-oriented research and capacity building to address pressing global challenges. With over 400 researchers in 12 countries, UNU’s work spans the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), driving positive global change through impartial research.

About UNU-FLORES:

Based in Dresden, Germany, UNU-FLORES focuses on sustainable and integrated management of environmental resources. It engages in research, capacity development, teaching, and knowledge dissemination to advance the Resource Nexus.

Start Date: 1 April 2025

Application Deadline: 31 May 2024

Doctoral Research Opportunities:

The NEXtra programme, supported by the DAAD EPOS funding, offers 42-month scholarships with a two-month German language course. Doctoral candidates will conduct research to advance the Resource Nexus and support the SDGs. Supervision will be provided by experts from Technische Universitaet Dresden, UNU-FLORES, and the Leibniz Institute for Ecological Urban and Regional Development (IOER).

Research Topics:

1. Transition to new post-mining land-use patterns balancing ecological restoration and socioeconomic development.
2. Nexus between urban sprawl, landscape fragmentation, and habitat network connectivity.
3. Sustainable Water Quality Management in South Africa.
4. Transdisciplinary knowledge integration for regional water management sustainability.
5. Biodiversity Offsets and Ecosystem Restoration in Urban Development.

Benefits:

– Monthly stipend of EUR 1,300 for up to 42 months.
– Health insurance and introductory German language classes.
– Additional allowances for travel and research.

Responsibilities:

– Conduct research within one of the specified topics.
– Collaborate with the NEXtra programme and UN system.
– Disseminate research findings through publications, conferences, and community outreach.
– Support capacity development and education efforts.

Eligibility

Applicants should meet the following criteria:

– Master’s degree with an equivalent grade of 2.5 or better (German system).
– Completed Master’s degree within the last six years.
– At least two years of related work experience post-Bachelor’s degree.
– Not resided in Germany for more than 15 months at the application deadline.
– Strong academic background, research skills, and a keen interest in sustainability.
– Proficiency in English; knowledge of German or another UN official language is an asset.

Related: 

DAAD-EPOS Scholarship for Master of WASTE in Germany 2025-26
MA in Development Management with DAAD-EPOS Scholarship in Germany, 2025-27
DAAD EPOS Scholarship for MSc in Global Urban Health at the University of Freiburg, Germany

How to Apply:

Interested and eligible applicants should apply online

Apply now

Submit a combined PDF including:

– Completed EPOS checklist and DAAD application form.
– Research proposal (max 13,000 characters including spaces).
– Abstract of your Master’s thesis (max 1 page).
– Reference letter from your academic supervisor.
– Higher secondary school certificate.
– Proofs of internships (if any).

For more details and to apply, visit the United nation university website