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

Applications are now being accepted for the Max Planck Doucet Scholarship, a fully funded three-month research program at the prestigious Max Planck Institute in Germany. This scholarship offers young researchers a unique opportunity to delve into the Doucet Collection, a rich archive of historical legal materials, and conduct research in a supportive international environment.

A Deep Dive into Legal History

The Doucet Scholarship, based at the Max Planck Institute for Legal History and Legal Theory in Frankfurt, provides access to an extensive library collection. This collection encompasses historical and fundamental legal-historical sources, with a particular focus on the history of early modern law, especially concerning the Hispanic-American region up to its independence. The program is scheduled to run from January 5th to March 31st, 2026.

Financial Support and Travel Reimbursement

Successful applicants will receive a stipend of €1,365 to cover living expenses during their stay. Furthermore, the program offers reimbursement for travel costs, up to €1,500 for transatlantic flights and €750 for flights within Europe.

Expert Perspective: The Value of Primary Source Research

"Access to primary sources like the Doucet Collection is invaluable for legal historians," explains Dr. Anya Schmidt, a professor of legal history at the University of Berlin, who is not directly affiliated with the Max Planck Institute. "These materials allow researchers to move beyond secondary interpretations and engage directly with the legal thought and practices of past eras. The Max Planck Doucet Scholarship provides a crucial opportunity for emerging scholars to develop these skills."

Eligibility Criteria and Application Process

The scholarship is primarily aimed at young researchers from outside Frankfurt, with a particular emphasis on applicants from Latin America. Ideal candidates should demonstrate a strong interest in utilizing the Doucet Collection for their research. Participation requires a full three-month residency at the Max Planck Institute. Applicants must submit a compelling project proposal outlining their intended research within the Doucet Collection.

Application Details:

Apply through the online application form. Upload a CV. Provide contact details. Answer all questions on the form. Upload required documents, including a project description and motivation letter.

Required Documents

The application package must include:

A completed online application form. A comprehensive CV. A detailed project description outlining the proposed research. A motivation letter explaining the applicant's interest in and intended use of the Doucet Collection.

A Historical Context of Legal Scholarship

Scholarships like the Max Planck Doucet Scholarship play a vital role in fostering legal scholarship and preserving historical knowledge. Throughout history, access to funding and resources has been a significant barrier for aspiring researchers. This scholarship addresses this challenge by providing not only financial support but also access to world-class research facilities and expertise. The Max Planck Institute's commitment to supporting young scholars reflects a broader trend within academia to cultivate the next generation of legal historians and theorists.

Analytical Viewpoint: Bridging Continents Through Scholarship

According to Dr. Carlos Ramirez, a legal scholar specializing in Latin American legal history, "This scholarship represents a crucial bridge between European and Latin American legal scholarship. By providing resources for Latin American researchers to access and analyze these historical legal documents, it fosters a deeper understanding of the region's legal foundations and its relationship with European legal traditions."

Important Dates

The deadline for applications is September 15, 2025.

Apply Now

This scholarship represents a significant opportunity for young researchers passionate about legal history to advance their careers and contribute to the field. The Max Planck Institute's dedication to providing a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment makes this a truly exceptional program.