Artificial intelligence is no longer just a technological trend – it has become an integral part of scientific work. With its new call for proposals, the DFG is continuing its funding line "Methods of Artificial Intelligence" in the Emmy Noether Program. The focus is on early career researchers who want to make a name for themselves at an early stage in the development of AI methods.

Scientific Independence From the Postdoc Phase Onwards

The call is aimed at postdoctoral researchers and junior professors (W1/W2) in an early stage of their career whose research focus is in the field of AI method development. Funding is available for projects dealing with the development, advancement, analysis or evaluation of AI methods – from machine learning and data mining to mathematical foundations and knowledge-based systems.

With this call, the DFG aims to bring excellent early career researchers into independent leadership positions. Successful applicants will be able to lead an Emmy Noether Junior Research Group for six years – an important step towards a professorship.

Clear Framework Conditions for Applicants

Applicants should generally have completed their doctorate two to four years before submitting their application. We particularly encourage applicants to submit a strong research project within two years of completing their PhD. Excellent publications or recognized contributions to industrial research are required, ideally complemented by international research experience.

Only researchers whose Qualification Professorships have not yet been evaluated are eligible to apply. Applicants should therefore carefully check the individual deadlines and status requirements.

Two-Stage Procedure With Digital Application Submission

Two-step procedure with digital application submission Applications are submitted in two steps. The first step is to submit an outline of no more than five pages via the DFG's "elan" portal by 11 June. The deadline for non-registered applicants is 01 June 2025. Following a positive review of the outline, applicants will be invited to submit a full proposal by 17 December 2025. Funding decisions are expected in March 2026.

Promoting International Careers and Diversity

Promoting international careers and diversity The DFG emphasizes that the call is also explicitly aimed at researchers who come to Germany from abroad or who wish to return. In addition to research-friendly conditions, comprehensive social security and family support are also emphasized. In the interest of equal opportunities and diversity, the DFG particularly encourages female researchers to submit proposals.

Virtual Information Events for Interested Parties

Those who are not yet familiar with the Emmy Noether Program or are interested in a later call for proposals can find out more in advance at one of the digital information events on 28 April or 18 July 2025. Another call for proposals is planned for 2026.

Further Information and Contact

Detailed information on the call for proposals, deadlines and formal requirements can be found on the DFG website. For technical or administrative questions, please contact the DFG Head Office team at ai-initiativedfg.de.