Apply Now: Fully Funded NEXtra 2026 PhD Scholarships in Sustainability (EUR 1,300/Month)

Apply for the NEXtra Doctoral Scholarship: Pioneering Sustainability Transformations through the Resource Nexus

Are you passionate about creating impactful change in global sustainability? The NEXtra Doctoral Scholarship Programme offers a unique opportunity to engage in cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research aimed at advancing sustainability transformations. This prestigious programme, offered by the United Nations University Institute for Integrated Management of Material Fluxes and of Resources (UNU-FLORES), invites highly motivated individuals to pursue a doctoral degree focused on the Resource Nexus approach.

Study in Germany and Support Global Sustainability Goals

Located in Dresden, Germany, the NEXtra programme aligns with the United Nations’ mission to address global challenges through sustainable resource management. Funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) under the EPOS initiative, the scholarship provides 42 months of support for research that explores the interdependencies between water, soil, waste, energy, and other critical resources.

Scholars will work closely with experts from Technische Universität Dresden, UNU-FLORES, and the Leibniz Institute for Ecological Urban and Regional Development (IOER) to contribute to the advancement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

About UNU and UNU-FLORES

The United Nations University (UNU) is a global research network and think tank that supports the UN’s mission through policy-relevant research in sustainable development, human security, and environmental governance. With over 400 researchers worldwide, UNU collaborates with international agencies, universities, and institutions to drive evidence-based solutions to pressing global issues.

UNU-FLORES, based in Dresden and Weißwasser, is a key institute within UNU. It focuses on integrated resource management, particularly in the context of emerging and developing countries. Its work emphasizes the Resource Nexus, offering a holistic framework to tackle sustainability challenges.

NEXtra Research Areas: Technology, Nature, and People

Applicants can choose research topics across three interdisciplinary areas:

Technology

• Remote sensing and post-mining land use

• Geospatial data integration

• Affective and multi-perspective mapping

• Scrollytelling atlas design for resource indicators

Nature

• Biodiversity offsets and ecosystem restoration

• Water-Energy-Food Nexus and policy integration

• Urban infrastructure resource optimization in the Global South

• Green and gray infrastructure resource efficiency

People

• Foreign policy and the forest-mining-land use nexus

• Resource Nexus in transformation programmes

• Citizen science for sustainable finance

• Land use and economic restructuring in the Global South

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Responsibilities of NEXtra Scholars

As a NEXtra doctoral candidate, you will:

• Conduct original research and develop methodological frameworks.

• Participate in international workshops and collaborate with UN networks.

• Publish academic articles and present findings at global conferences.

• Support education initiatives and mentor Master’s students.

• Contribute to the visibility and impact of the NEXtra consortium.

NEXtra Doctoral Scholarship (Ideal Candidate Profile)

Candidates should meet the following criteria:

• Hold a Master’s degree with strong academic results (equivalent to a German GPA of 2.5 or better).

• Have at least two years of relevant professional experience.

• Demonstrate a strong commitment to sustainability and development.

• Possess excellent analytical, writing, and presentation skills.

• Be proficient in English; knowledge of German or other UN languages is an asset.

• Thrive in multicultural, collaborative research environments.

NEXtra Doctoral Scholarship (Scholarship Benefits)

• Duration: 42 months, starting April 2026

• Stipend: €1,300/month

• Additional Benefits: Health insurance, travel allowance, German language course, and support for housing and transportation

NEXtra Doctoral Scholarship (How to Apply)

To apply, prepare a single PDF document containing:

• A research proposal (max 13,000 characters)

• Abstract of your Master’s thesis

• Academic reference letter

• Proof of academic qualifications and internships (if applicable)

Application Deadline: 5 June 2025

For detailed application guidelines, visit the DAAD EPOS website and submit all required documents accordingly.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

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Start your journey toward a doctoral degree in sustainability research. Apply now and contribute to shaping a more resilient and equitable world.