The Max Planck Doucet Scholarship 2026 in Germany is now accepting applications. This fully funded three-month research fellowship is offered by the Max Planck Institute for Legal History and Legal Theory in Frankfurt, Germany. The program is specifically designed for early-career researchers who wish to conduct advanced studies on the history of colonial law, with a particular focus on the Doucet Collection.
The fellowship provides young scholars with an excellent opportunity to immerse themselves in a world-class research environment, benefit from academic mentorship, and connect with international experts in legal history. What makes this program even more attractive is that it is fully funded which covers living expenses, housing, and travel costs, allowing participants to focus solely on their research.
Another key feature of the Doucet Scholarship is its inclusive nature. Applicants from all around the world are eligible to apply, though the program gives strong preference to researchers from Latin America, encouraging diverse academic perspectives.
The scholarship runs from January 5, 2026 to March 31, 2026, providing a unique three-month window to strengthen your academic career and contribute to global discussions on colonial law and legal history.
If you are looking for a prestigious opportunity to advance your research in Germany, this fellowship can serve as a major stepping stone in your academic journey.
Interested candidates can apply for this scholarship before the deadline September 15, 2025.
Below are the complete details regarding eligibility, financial benefits, required documents, and the application process.

Scholarship Details
| Host Country | Germany |
| Location | Frankfurt |
| Institute | Max Planck Institute for Legal History and Legal Theory |
| Duration | 3 months (January 5, 2026 – March 31, 2026) |
| Coverage | Fully Funded |
| Application Deadline | September 15, 2025 |
Financial Benefits
The Max Planck Doucet Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded fellowship, and selected candidates will receive:
- Monthly living stipend
- Coverage of travel costs to and from Germany
- Housing fees
- Access to a rich and supportive research environment
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must fulfill the following requirements to be considered:
- The scholarship is open to candidates from all countries.
- As a candidate, you must be a young researcher residing outside of Frankfurt.
- There is a strong preference for candidates from Latin America.
- Your research proposal must focus on the history of colonial law.
- You need to clearly demonstrate your intent to make use of the Doucet Collection.
- Your application materials should be submitted in either English or Spanish.
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Required Documents
Candidates need to prepare and submit the following:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Project Description
- Motivation Letter
Application Process
- Applications must be submitted online through the official portal.
- All required documents should be uploaded during the application process.
- If applicants have questions, they can contact: sekduve@lhlt.mpg.de.
Important Deadline: Applications close on September 15, 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the duration of the Max Planck Doucet Scholarship?
The fellowship runs for three months, from January 5, 2026, to March 31, 2026.
2. Who can apply for the scholarship?
Young researchers from all countries can apply, with a strong preference for applicants from Latin America.
3. What is the research focus of this fellowship?
The fellowship is intended for projects related to the history of colonial law, making use of the Doucet Collection.
4. Is there an application fee?
No, there is no application fee to apply for this scholarship.
5. What expenses are covered under the fellowship?
The program covers a living stipend, housing fees, travel costs, and access to a rich research environment.
6. What is the last date to apply?
The deadline for applications is September 15, 2025.