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 opportunity to delve into historical legal research at the Max Planck Institute for Legal History and Legal Theory. This scholarship provides access to the institute's extensive Doucet Collection, focusing on the history of early modern law, particularly concerning the Hispanic-American region up to its independence.

Focus on Colonial Legal History

The scholarship, based in Frankfurt, Germany, is scheduled from January 5th to March 31st, 2026. Selected scholars will receive a stipend of €1,365 to cover living expenses, along with reimbursement for travel costs, up to €1,500 for transatlantic flights and €750 for flights within Europe. The program aims to foster an international and supportive working environment for researchers exploring the intricacies of colonial legal systems.

Financial Support and Resources

The Max Planck Institute offers more than just financial aid. Scholars will have access to a wealth of resources within the institute’s library, which houses a significant collection of historical and fundamental legal-historical sources. While accommodation at the institute's residence is available, participants are responsible for the rental costs.

Expert Perspective: The Importance of Legal History in Understanding Modern Legal Systems

Dr. Anya Schmidt, a professor of legal history at the University of Heidelberg, emphasizes the importance of this scholarship. "Understanding the historical roots of legal systems, particularly colonial law, is crucial for interpreting contemporary legal challenges," Dr. Schmidt explains. "The Doucet Collection offers a unique window into the development of legal thought and practice in the Hispanic-American world, and this scholarship provides an invaluable opportunity for young scholars to engage with these primary sources."

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 strong interest in utilizing the Doucet Collection for their research and commit to spending the full three-month duration at the Max Planck Institute. Applications require a project proposal directly related to the articles within the Doucet Collection.

Application Requirements:

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

Historical Context: Max Planck Institute's Commitment to Legal History

The Max Planck Institute for Legal History and Legal Theory has a long-standing tradition of supporting research into the historical foundations of law. Established in 1964, the institute has consistently fostered scholarship that examines the evolution of legal concepts and institutions across different cultures and time periods. The Doucet Collection, a core resource of the institute, represents a significant contribution to the field of legal history, offering researchers access to rare and often inaccessible primary source materials.

Key Dates:

Application Deadline: September 15, 2025 Program Duration: January 5 - March 31, 2026

How to Apply

Interested applicants must submit their applications through the online application form available on the Max Planck Institute's website. The application requires uploading a CV, contact details, answers to specific questions, and the required documents outlined above. Upon submission, applicants will receive a confirmation email.

A Stepping Stone for Future Legal Scholars

The Max Planck Doucet Scholarship represents a significant opportunity for young researchers to advance their careers in legal history. By providing financial support, access to unique resources, and a supportive research environment, the scholarship aims to cultivate the next generation of scholars who will contribute to a deeper understanding of the historical forces shaping contemporary legal systems.

Scholarship Benefits:

Financial support of €1,365. Reimbursement of travel costs (up to €1,500 for transatlantic flights, €750 for European flights). Access to the Max Planck Institute's Library and resources. Opportunity to reside at the Institute’s residence (at the participant’s expense).

The Broader Landscape of Legal History Scholarships

While the Max Planck Doucet Scholarship offers a specific focus on colonial legal history, numerous other scholarships and fellowships support research in broader areas of legal history. These opportunities often target different career stages, from undergraduate research grants to postdoctoral fellowships, reflecting the diverse pathways available for pursuing a career in this field. Institutions such as the American Society for Legal History and the Institute for Advanced Study also offer fellowships and grants that support research in legal history.

For those interested in applying for the Max Planck Doucet Scholarship, further details and the application portal can be found on the official Max Planck Institute website.