Clausthal University of Technology provides start-up funding to support researchers in the early stages of their careers to develop academic independence and their own research profile. The funding provides a basis for independently preparing an application for publicly funded open-topic research project. It is therefore expected that a corresponding application will be submitted at the end of the funding period.

The call for proposals is thematically open, but the research project should be in line with the research profile and the key topic of Circular Economy of the Clausthal University of Technology. 

Applicants are advised to seek councellation during the application preparation by the Research Servicel, particularly with regard to cost calculation/personnel expenses and possible follow-up projects.

The funded scientist should be integrated into the academic structures of Clausthal University of Technology. Interdisciplinary support and a program for individual and personal (career) development is provided by the Graduate Academy.

What is funded?

The funding framework provides up to EUR 300.000 for personnel and material resources or travel expenses for a maximum duration of 36 months. The share of travel and material expenses may amount to up to 20% of the funding volume. The regulations of the TV-L and the WissZeitVG must be observed for the use of personnel resources.

A target agreement is concluded at the beginning of the term, which is discussed with the mentor on an annual basis.

A financial and factual report must be submitted within 6 months after ending of the funding period. Furthermore, feedback is expected as to whether the expected application for third-party funding has been submitted and was successful.

Who can apply?

Applications are accepted from postdoctoral researchers in early career stages (with 1-3 years of postdoctoral experience), preferably from outside Clausthal University of Technology. A very good doctorate in a suitable discipline is expected as well as evidence of excellent scientific achievements, e.g. excellent publications in suitable media, awards or initial third-party funding experience.

A convincing research concept must be submitted, containing detailed information on the planned follow-up application with milestones and links/networking potential to existing research at Clausthal University of Technology. Very good English language skills are required and ideally international experiences in a scientific context are already gained.

Evaluation criteria

• Qualification and competence of the applicant.
• Innovative approach, originality of the research topic.
• Quality of the research concept, thematic fit with the scientific profile of Clausthal University of Technology and future development opportunities.
• Suitability of the topic for the intended third-party funding.
• Project organization and milestone planning.

Application

To apply for start-up funding, the following documents (German or English) must be submitted:

• Letter of motivation of up to two pages with details of academic experience.

• Curriculum vitae with academic career (ideally also in an international context), list of publications, third-party funding successes and language skills.

• Description of the research concept with information on the initial situation, a concrete goal, milestones and timetable as well as the financing concept (max. 10 pages).

• Letter of support from an academic host or an institute/center management of Clausthal University of Technology with information on the integration of the research project.

A maximum of one application will be funded; there is no legal entitlement to funding.

Please submit your complete application by 31.08.2025 to the PostDoc-Office of TU Clausthal

Caroline Maas

Adolph-Roemer-Str. 2a, 38678 Clausthal-Zellerfeld

Phone: 05323-72-2145, e-mail: postdoc-office@tu-clausthal.de

Contact and queries: PostDoc-Office of the TU Clausthal