Max Planck Doucet Scholarship in Germany Opens Applications for 2026 The Max Planck Institute for Legal History and Legal Theory in Frankfurt, Germany, is now accepting applications for the fully funded Doucet Scholarship, commencing January 5th and concluding March 31st, 2026. This three-month research opportunity provides young scholars, particularly those from Latin America, with access to the Institute's extensive Doucet Collection, focusing on the history of colonial law.

Fully Funded Research Opportunity in Legal History The scholarship aims to foster research into the history of early modern law, specifically related to the Hispanic-American region up to its independence. Selected scholars will receive a stipend of €1,365 to cover living expenses during their stay at the Institute. Furthermore, the program covers travel costs, reimbursing up to €1,500 for transatlantic flights and €750 for flights within Europe.

Access to the Doucet Collection The Doucet Collection, housed within the Max Planck Institute's library, comprises historical and fundamental legal-historical sources. It offers a wealth of materials for researchers interested in exploring the legal landscape of the Hispanic-American region during the colonial era. The scholarship encourages proposals that directly engage with the documents and articles within this collection.

Scholarship Details:

Host Country: Germany Host Institute: Max Planck Institute for Legal History and Legal Theory Location: Frankfurt, Germany Duration: January 5th - March 31st, 2026 (3 months) Financial Support: €1,365 stipend Travel Reimbursement: Up to €1,500 (transatlantic), €750 (Europe)

Expert Perspective: The Significance of Colonial Legal History "Understanding colonial legal history is crucial for comprehending contemporary legal systems and societal structures in many parts of the world," explains Dr. Elena Rodriguez, a specialist in Latin American legal history at the University of Madrid. "Scholarships like the Max Planck Doucet Scholarship provide invaluable opportunities for young researchers to delve into primary sources and contribute to a more nuanced understanding of this complex historical period. Access to collections like the Doucet Collection is vital for this work."

Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for the Max Planck Doucet Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be a young researcher from outside Frankfurt, with preference given to those from Latin America. Demonstrate a strong interest in utilizing the Doucet Collection for their research. Commit to residing at the Max Planck Institute for the duration of the three-month program. Submit a compelling project proposal related to the history of colonial law and the Doucet Collection.

Application Process Interested candidates must apply through the online application form. The application requires the following documents:

Online Application Form Curriculum Vitae (CV) Detailed Project Description Motivation Letter explaining the applicant's interest in using the Doucet Collection

After submitting the application, candidates will receive a confirmation email.

Historical Context of Legal History Scholarships Scholarships focused on legal history have gained increasing importance in recent decades, reflecting a growing recognition of the impact of historical legal frameworks on contemporary societies. Institutions like the Max Planck Institute play a crucial role in preserving and providing access to historical legal documents, fostering research that informs our understanding of legal evolution and its socio-political consequences. Programs like the Doucet Scholarship contribute to a global network of scholars dedicated to advancing this field.

Deadline The deadline to apply for the Max Planck Doucet Scholarship is September 15, 2025. Prospective applicants are encouraged to submit their applications well in advance of the deadline.

Another Expert's View: The Importance of International Collaboration Professor Hans Schmidt, a legal theorist at Humboldt University in Berlin, emphasizes the role of international collaboration in legal research. "Scholarships like this one not only provide financial support but also create a platform for intellectual exchange between scholars from different backgrounds. This cross-cultural perspective is essential for developing new insights and approaches to legal history," he says. "The Max Planck Institute's commitment to supporting international researchers is commendable."

How to Apply:

Access the online application form on the Max Planck Institute website. Complete all required fields in the application form. Upload your CV, project description, and motivation letter. Review your application carefully before submitting. Ensure all documents are in the required format.

This scholarship offers a unique opportunity for young researchers to immerse themselves in the study of colonial legal history and contribute to a deeper understanding of its lasting impact.