International Research Training Groups
International Research Training Groups (IRTGs) are a programme variation of Research Training Groups. As structured doctoral programmes run by German universities in conjunction with institutions abroad, they serve to encourage and deepen bilateral collaboration. They promote systematic research cooperation through joint research and qualification programmes as well as cooperative, cross-border supervision of doctoral researchers from both partner groups and longer-term, coordinated and reciprocal research visits by doctoral researchers at the respective partner institutions.
The added value of International Research Training Groups includes synergy effects deriving from the use of complementary expertise, equipment and resources at the partner institutions and the consolidation of institutionalised university partnerships, as well as the early integration of doctoral researchers in international scientific networks.
26 International Research Training Groups
Stand 6/24
Approximately one in six DFG-funded Research Training Groups are IRTGs. The figure provides an overview of the partner countries involved in the IRTGs that currently receive funding. In principle, it is possible to apply for an IRTG at any time and with partner institutions in any country. One requirement is the provision of sufficient matching funding in the partner country. In some countries, the DFG also has agreements with partner organisations abroad that enable joint proposal submission and funding of IRTGs. We will be happy to advise you in person on country specifics.
Further Information
Due to the complexity of planning an International Research Training Group, the DFG Head Office offers consultation sessions on request to assist you in planning your project. These should be based on a concept paper showing the planning status to date and the researchers and institutions involved. Please do not hesitate to contact the person responsible for the world region in question.
The DFG offers financial support for travel in preparation for a proposal to establish an International Research Training Group. Trips to preparatory workshops held jointly with foreign partners are eligible for funding once per planned initiative. Such a workshop may take place abroad or in Germany. Funding can be granted only if research cooperation is already underway and plans for the International Research Training Group have already been solidified.
- For further information, see Proposal Preparation Instructions 1.30
The RISE programme offers the opportunity to intensify transatlantic research cooperation in Research Training Groups: Funding is provided for the temporary integration of American, British and Canadian students as research fellows in dissertation projects at Research Training Groups in Germany. The programme is primarily aimed at the life sciences, natural sciences and engineering sciences, but is not limited to these if the dissertation project is appropriately related to the subject. The research fellows are given the opportunity to work with local doctoral researchers in their research area for six to twelve weeks each summer.