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

Applications are now being accepted for the Max Planck Doucet Scholarship in Germany, offering young researchers a fully funded three-month residency at the prestigious Max Planck Institute for Legal History and Legal Theory in Frankfurt. The scholarship provides a unique opportunity to delve into the Doucet Collection, a rich repository of historical legal sources, particularly concerning the Hispanic-American region. The program is scheduled to run from January 5th to March 31st, 2026.

Focus on Colonial Legal History

The scholarship specifically targets projects focusing on the history of colonial law directly related to the articles within the Doucet Collection. Successful applicants will gain access to the Institute's extensive library resources and benefit from a supportive international working environment. This initiative underscores the Max Planck Institute's commitment to fostering research in legal history and promoting scholarly exchange.

Financial Support and Benefits

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

Historical Significance of the Doucet Collection

The Doucet Collection holds significant historical importance, containing primary source materials related to the legal frameworks governing Hispanic-American territories during the colonial era. Dr. Maria Serra, a specialist in colonial legal history at the University of Berlin, emphasizes the collection's value: "The Doucet Collection offers invaluable insights into the complexities of legal systems imposed and adapted in the Americas. Access to these materials is crucial for understanding the lasting impact of colonial rule on contemporary legal structures."

Eligibility Criteria and Application Process

The Max Planck Doucet Scholarship is primarily aimed at young researchers from outside Frankfurt, with a particular emphasis on applicants from Latin America. To be eligible, candidates must demonstrate a strong interest in utilizing the Doucet Collection for their research. A key requirement is the commitment to reside at the Max Planck Institute for the entire three-month duration of the program. The application process involves submitting a comprehensive project proposal, a CV, and a motivation letter outlining the applicant's research interests and how the Doucet Collection will contribute to their work.

Application Deadline

The deadline for applications is September 15, 2025. Prospective applicants are encouraged to submit their materials well in advance of the deadline to ensure timely consideration.

How to Apply

The application process is conducted entirely online. Applicants must:

Complete the online application form. Upload a current CV. Provide contact information. Answer all questions posed in the application form. Upload the required documents, including the project description and motivation letter. Carefully review the application before submitting.

Upon successful submission, applicants will receive a confirmation email.

Required Documents

Online application form Curriculum Vitae (CV) Detailed project description Motivation letter explaining the intended use of the Doucet Collection

Scholarships and the Pursuit of Knowledge

Scholarships like the Max Planck Doucet Scholarship play a vital role in democratizing access to research opportunities and fostering intellectual exchange. Historically, patronage and institutional support have been essential for advancing scholarly endeavors. Today, scholarships continue to serve as a critical mechanism for enabling talented individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic background, to pursue their academic passions and contribute to the global knowledge base. Dr. Hans-Peter Schmidt, a former director at the Max Planck Institute, notes, "These scholarships are not just about funding; they are about investing in the future of legal scholarship. By providing access to unique resources and a supportive research environment, we empower the next generation of scholars to make significant contributions to our understanding of legal history."

Program Details

Host Country: Germany Host Institute: Max Planck Institute for Legal History and Legal Theory Program Location: Frankfurt, Germany Program Duration: January 5 - March 31, 2026 (3 months)

Benefits

Financial support of €1,365 Reimbursement of travel costs (up to €1,500 for transatlantic flights, €750 for flights within Europe) Opportunity to rent a room in the Institute's residence (at the participant's expense)

Official Link For more information and to access the online application form, please visit the official website of the Max Planck Institute for Legal History and Legal Theory.