Max Planck Doucet Scholarship in Germany Offers Fully Funded Research Opportunity for 2026

Applications are now being accepted for the Max Planck Doucet Scholarship, offering young researchers a fully funded, three-month research opportunity at the Max Planck Institute in Germany. This program, scheduled for January 5 to March 31, 2026, provides scholars with access to the esteemed Doucet Collection, a rich resource for legal history, particularly concerning the Hispanic-American region.

Unlocking Legal History: The Doucet Collection

The scholarship is designed to support research projects directly related to the history of colonial law as reflected in the Doucet Collection, housed within the Max Planck Institute’s Library for the History and Theory of Law in Frankfurt. The collection is particularly strong in materials covering the Hispanic-American region up to the time of independence, offering a unique opportunity for scholars specializing in this area.

Comprehensive Funding and Support

Selected scholars will receive a monthly stipend of €1,365 to cover living expenses during their stay. Furthermore, the program reimburses travel costs, up to €1,500 for transatlantic flights and €750 for flights within Europe. While accommodation is available at the Institute’s residence, participants are responsible for rental costs.

Expert Perspective: The Value of Specialized Collections

Dr. Elena Rodriguez, a professor of Latin American Legal History at the University of Madrid, emphasizes the significance of such specialized collections. "The Doucet Collection is an invaluable resource for understanding the complexities of colonial law and its lasting impact on legal systems in the Americas. This scholarship provides a rare opportunity for young researchers to immerse themselves in primary source materials and contribute to the field." Dr. Rodriguez further notes that access to such focused collections is often a critical factor in advancing original research.

Eligibility and Application Details

The scholarship is primarily aimed at young researchers from outside Frankfurt, with a particular emphasis on applicants from Latin America. Candidates must demonstrate a clear interest in utilizing the Doucet Collection for their research. Successful applicants are required to reside at the Max Planck Institute for the entire three-month duration of the program and actively engage in their research project. The deadline for applications is September 15, 2025.

Application Requirements:

Online application form Curriculum Vitae (CV) Detailed project description Motivation letter outlining the applicant's intended use of the Doucet Collection

How to Apply:

Access the online application form through the official link. Upload your CV. Provide your contact details. Answer all required questions in the form. Upload the necessary documents, including your project description and motivation letter. Review and submit your application. Upon successful submission, you will receive a confirmation email.

Historical Context: The Max Planck Institute and Legal History

The Max Planck Institute for Legal History and Legal Theory has a long and distinguished history of promoting research in legal history and theory. Its commitment to fostering international collaboration and providing access to unique archival resources like the Doucet Collection underscores its dedication to advancing legal scholarship. The Institute’s focus on early modern law, particularly in the Hispanic-American context, fills a crucial gap in historical legal research.

Current Relevance: Understanding Colonial Legacies

The study of colonial law remains highly relevant today, as legal systems around the world continue to grapple with the legacies of colonialism. Understanding the historical roots of legal institutions and their impact on contemporary societies is essential for addressing issues of justice, equity, and human rights. Scholarships like the Max Planck Doucet Scholarship play a vital role in supporting this crucial research.

A Stepping Stone for Future Legal Scholars

This scholarship not only provides financial support and access to invaluable resources but also offers young researchers a unique opportunity to collaborate with leading scholars in the field and build their professional networks. The Max Planck Institute provides an international and supportive working environment, fostering intellectual growth and contributing to the development of future leaders in legal history.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Legal History Research

Initiatives like the Max Planck Doucet Scholarship are crucial for ensuring the continued vitality of legal history research. By investing in young scholars and providing access to specialized collections, the Max Planck Institute is helping to shape the future of the field and promote a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between law, history, and society.