Introducing the Young Academy

Scope for innovative research

The Young Academy gives up-and-coming researchers the opportunity to address future trends in disciplines ranging from the humanities and social studies to the natural sciences and technology/engineering. The interfaces between disciplines in particular often offer new perspectives and creative solutions that cut across traditional research boundaries.

A strong network

Appointees to the Young Academy become extraordinary members of the Academy for the duration of their scholarship. The fellows benefit from the networking opportunities within the Young Academy itself and also contribute their expertise to working groups and events of the Bavarian Academy of Sciences and Humanities. This gives rise to new ideas, formats and initiatives.

Targeted funding – lasting success

The Young Academy can have up to 20 members. They receive an annual grant of 12,000 euros for three years, which can be extended for a further three years following a positive evaluation. The programme’s success speaks for itself: Many members leave the Young Academy early because they have been appointed to a chair. Several fellows have also been recipients of prestigious prizes such as the Heinz Maier-Leibnitz Prize of the German Research Foundation (DFG) or top-level international funding like the ERC Starting Grant of the European Research Council.

Scientific dialogue 

Science thrives on dialogue – not just between experts but also with the general public. That is why the members of the Young Academy regularly organise academic symposia, workshops, fireside chats and public debates on issues that are highly relevant to society. In 2025, two members of the Young Academy became the first to participate in the Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting. Members also take part in interdisciplinary working groups on topical cross-cutting issues. 

For information on upcoming events of the Young Academy, see the Academy’s calendar of events.