HIIG Impact AI Fellowship Program 2027 in Germany (Fully Funded)
Summary
The HIIG Impact AI Fellowship Program 2027 in Germany offers international researchers, journalists, civil society representatives, public officials, and business professionals a fully funded opportunity to analyze the broader societal and environmental consequences of artificial intelligence. Hosted by the Alexander von Humboldt Institute for Internet and Society (HIIG) in Berlin, this 10-week program combines remote research with a 2-week in-person workshop in Berlin. Selected fellows receive a €5,000 stipend, mentorship from leading scholars, and the opportunity to serve as lead authors on published AI evaluation case studies.
Designation
Impact AI Fellow (Alexander von Humboldt Institute for Internet and Society)
Program Details at a Glance
| Key Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Host Institution | Alexander von Humboldt Institute for Internet and Society (HIIG) |
| Program Duration | 10 Weeks (August 16, 2027 – October 22, 2027) |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded (€5,000 stipend + travel/lodging support options) |
| Eligible Nationalities | Open to all nationalities worldwide |
| Location | Berlin, Germany (Hybrid format) |
| Application Deadline | January 15, 2027 |
Research Area
The fellowship focuses on responsible technology, specifically investigating the environmental, ethical, and societal impacts of artificial intelligence. Fellows utilize the Impact AI Method developed by HIIG in partnership with Economy for the Common Good (ECOnGOOD) and Greenpeace Germany. Key topics include:
- Environmental footprint and sustainability of AI deployments
- Societal and ethical implications of AI technologies
- Systematic evaluation and real-world case study analysis
- Cross-disciplinary AI policy, governance, and public interest research
Location
Berlin, Germany (Hybrid format). The 10-week fellowship allows a significant portion of work to be completed remotely, alongside a mandatory 2-week in-person workshop and collaborative session hosted in Berlin.
Eligibility & Qualification Criteria
Applicants must meet the following qualification requirements:
- Academic Requirement: A Master’s degree is required. An extensive record of academic publications is not mandatory, but candidates must demonstrate strong analytical and research capabilities.
- Professional Sectors: Candidates may come from academia, investigative journalism, civil society organizations (NGOs), public administration, or private enterprises specializing in sustainability or AI ethics.
- Skills & Mindset: Strong interest in systematic impact assessment methodologies, ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in interdisciplinary teams.
- Project Proposal: Applicants may propose a specific AI use case to evaluate, though HIIG can also assist accepted fellows in selecting an appropriate case study.
- Nationality: Candidates of all nationalities are eligible to apply.
Scholarship Description & Benefits
The HIIG Impact AI Fellowship is designed to bridge theoretical discussions on responsible AI with practical, field-tested impact evaluations. Over the 10-week tenure, fellows learn to apply the Impact AI Method by conducting interviews, evaluating empirical data, and formulating an in-depth case study report as primary authors.
Key Benefits Include:
- €5,000 Financial Stipend: A direct fellowship allowance provided for the duration of the 10-week program.
- Expert Mentorship: Direct guidance and academic supervision from the HIIG Impact AI research team.
- Lead Authorship: Opportunities to serve as the lead author of a published impact report, establishing leadership in responsible AI evaluation.
- In-Person Workshop Access: Participation in workshops, networking events, and collaborative sessions in Berlin.
- Travel Support: Depending on institutional capacity and individual circumstances, supplementary financial assistance for travel and lodging for the Berlin workshop may be provided.
How to Apply
Eligible candidates should prepare their application materials and submit them through the official portal. Applicants can also attend online information sessions organized by HIIG prior to submission to learn more about the methodology and selection criteria.
Required Documents:
- Completed Online Application Form
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume
- Motivation Letter
- Valid Passport copy
- Criminal Record Certificate
- Proposed AI Project Description (Maximum 2 pages, optional)
- Other relevant supporting academic or professional documents
To submit your application or review complete program guidelines, visit the HIIG Official Application Link.
Last Date for Apply
The deadline to submit applications for the HIIG Impact AI Fellowship Program 2027 is January 15, 2027.