The Staatsbibliothek zu Berlin is home to exceptional historical special collections of manuscripts, printed works, maps, musical materials, and other collection objects, both in terms of scope and quality, from numerous regions in Europe, Africa and Asia. The library catalogues and researches this cultural heritage which it has been entrusted and which it systematically complements with modern scientific literature by using hermeneutic, digital and material-analytical methodologies.
With the aim of strategically enhancing its profile as a research library and further expanding its collaborations with other academic institutions, the Staatsbibliothek zu Berlin maintains a scholarship program. This program is open to researchers from all over the world and focuses on varying annual themes. Research projects that align with these themes and have a clear connection to the Staatsbibliothek zu Berlin‘s unique collections will be given preference in the selection process. The next call for applications is expected in early summer 2026.
2027 Annual Theme: tba
Past annual themes:
_Small Forms – Between Materiality, Mediality and Genre (2026)
How to apply?
Please send your complete application documents by September 30, 2026 - i.e. a. application form, b. list of publications, c. academic certificates and diplomas (copies) and d. detailed description of the planned research project - in a single PDF document by e-mail to stipendien@sbb.spk-berlin.de or by mail to:
Staatsbibliothek zu Berlin
Generaldirektion
Unter den Linden 8
D-10117 Berlin
The minimum requirement for an application is a first university degree at the time of submission. The monthly stipend is
_1,300 € for graduates without a doctorate (category A)
_1,600 € for doctoral graduates or applicants with comparable qualifications (category B)
In addition, a travel allowance of up to 500 € may be granted.
The scholarship program of the Stiftung Preußischer Kulturbesitz supports research stays in Berlin for periods ranging from one to a maximum of three months. We expressly reserve the right to reduce the duration of the scholarship applied for.
