The German Research Foundation (DFG) has published a new call for proposals for Emmy Noether Groups in “Methods of Artificial Intelligence” as part of its strategic AI funding initiative. The aim is to support outstanding early-career researchers and enable them to establish independent research groups.

AI methods have become key tools across a wide range of scientific disciplines. Accordingly, the call focuses on the development, advancement, analysis, and evaluation of AI methodologies. The thematic scope is deliberately broad and includes areas such as machine learning, optimization, algorithms, data analytics, knowledge representation, and mathematical and statistical foundations of AI.

Through the Emmy Noether Programme, excellent early-career researchers are given the opportunity to lead their own research group independently for a period of six years. This not only strengthens their research profile but also enhances international visibility and improves prospects for a professorship.

Who can apply?

The call is aimed at postdoctoral researchers and holders of temporary junior or equivalent qualification professorships at an early career stage. Applications are typically submitted two to four years after completing a PhD. Applicants are expected to demonstrate an outstanding doctoral degree, relevant publications or equivalent research experience, and international research exposure.

International researchers are explicitly encouraged to apply, particularly those considering moving to or returning to Germany.

Application process and deadlines

The selection process consists of two stages. In the first stage, applicants submit a proposal sketch of no more than five pages. Successful candidates will then be invited to submit a full proposal and present their project in person.

• Deadline for proposal sketches: June 10, 2026

• Registration in the elan portal: by June 3, 2026

• Invitation to submit full proposals: early October 2026

• Deadline for full proposals: December 2, 2026

• Final decision: expected in the second quarter of 2027

Submissions must be made exclusively via the DFG’s elan portal.

Equal opportunities and framework conditions

The DFG places strong emphasis on diversity and equal opportunities and explicitly encourages applications from women researchers. Funded researchers also benefit from attractive conditions within the German research system, including social security coverage, relocation support, and family-related benefits.