The programme for junior research group leaders

Participants should have been in their leadership role for around two years. However, longer leadership experience does not constitute grounds for exclusion.

Details about the programme can be found in the fact sheet. We usually send out the call for applications to institute directors 4–6 months before the programme start date.

Programme dates

2024:

2025:

  • February 2025 – September 2025 | 3-7-25
    Factsheet 3-7-25 (PDF)
    We expect to send out the call for applications in August.
  • May 2025 – December 2025 | 3-8-25
    Factsheet 3-8-25 (PDF)
    We expect to send out the call for applications in November.
At a glance
  • Format: Four two-day in-person modules, interspersed with two two-hour online sessions (“digital stopovers”).
  • Target group: Junior research group leaders, ideally with no more than two years’ leadership experience.
  • Programme language: English.
  • Locations: The in-person modules take place in Berlin / Brandenburg (M1, M3, M4) and Mannheim (M2).
  • Times: Module 1 starts at 6 pm, Modules 2–4 at 7.30 pm, including dinner in each case. The programme ends on the day of departure at 3 pm.
  • Cost: €3,500 plus VAT. Price includes participation in the programme, all documents, and accommodation and meals during the in-person modules.
Application and selection

One application per institute can be considered per programme cohort. If more than one person from your institute is interested, your institute will make a preliminary selection. Please note that this means you can only apply after consulting your institute director.

Once the application window closes, the programme advisory board of the Leibniz Leadership Academy will select the participants in line with the following criteria:

  • Leibniz Competition funding
  • Target group fit, especially in terms of leadership experience, as described above
  • Only one person per institute
  • Balanced participation from all five Sections
  • Equal number of female and male participants

FAQ on the application process