Bayer Foundation Fellowship Program to Support International Research Projects, (Funding Available), check out and Apply

The Bayer Foundation offers a range of fellowship programs designed to support international research projects, internships, and training for students, educators, and early career professionals. The application period for the 2025 Fellowships is open from February 14 to April 11, 2025.

Available Fellowships:

1. Scientific Fellowships:

Fellowship in Drug Discovery Sciences: For master's or PhD students from all scientific disciplines, including pharmacy and data science, with research relevant to the pharmaceutical and consumer healthcare industries.

Fellowship for Agricultural Science: For master's or PhD students from all scientific disciplines, including data science, focusing on research relevant to the crop science industry.

Fellowship for Medical Sciences: For students in human and veterinary medicine, or master's and PhD students in medical engineering, applied medical sciences, data science in medicine, and public health.

Fellowship for Climate & Health (New): For students in human or veterinary medicine, or master's and PhD students in natural sciences, pharmacy, public health, or epidemiology, focusing on research related to the impact of climate change on health.

Applicants are eligible for up to €10,000 in funding and can undertake fellowships for up to six months. Those studying in Germany must undertake placements in a different country, while those studying outside Germany should undertake their fellowships at a German research institution. 

2. Fellowship for STEM Student Teachers & Teachers:

Designed for trainee teachers or students of pedagogy (Bachelor, Master, PhD, Staatsexamen) with a focus on STEM subjects.

Also open to newly qualified teachers (less than three years) and primary school teachers specializing in STEM education.

Applicants are eligible for up to €10,000 in funding and can undertake fellowships for up to twelve months. This fellowship is only available to applicants currently working or studying in Germany. 

3. Fellowship for Apprentices & Early Career Professionals:

Aimed at apprentices, dual students, or early career professionals without a university degree and less than five years of employment.

Applicants must be pursuing their current apprenticeship or profession in a German-speaking country (Germany, Austria, or Switzerland).

Applicants are eligible for up to €10,000 in funding and can undertake fellowships for up to twelve months. This fellowship encourages applications from parents with children and individuals with German as a second language. 

How to Apply:

1. Review Guidelines: Before applying, thoroughly read the application guidelines and FAQs available on the Bayer Foundation's website. 

2. Prepare Documentation: Familiarize yourself with the application form and gather all relevant documentation and content prior to starting your application.

3. Submit Application: Applications can only be made through the Bayer Foundation's digital portal during the application phase from February 14 to April 11, 2025.

Application Portal

4. Contact Information: For any questions, reach out via email at bayer.fellowship@bayer.com.

Given your location in Ibadan, Nigeria, you may be particularly interested in the Scientific Fellowships, as they are open to international applicants. Ensure that your proposed fellowship aligns with the program's requirements, such as undertaking the fellowship at a German research institution.

For more detailed information and to access the application portal, please visit the Bayer Foundation's Fellowships & Stipends page. 

Impact of the Bayer Fellowship Program

The Bayer Fellowship Program provides significant benefits to students, researchers, and professionals in various fields, particularly in science, agriculture, medicine, STEM education, and vocational training.

1. Career Advancement & Skill Development

Provides access to cutting-edge research institutions, labs, and companies, particularly in Germany.

Enhances technical knowledge, scientific research skills, and industry experience.

Offers exposure to global best practices in medicine, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and STEM education.

2. Networking & International Collaboration

Fellows build strong networks with leading scientists, professionals, and educators worldwide.

Opens doors to mentorship opportunities from industry leaders and researchers in Germany.

Encourages cross-cultural learning and collaboration.

3. Funding & Financial Support

Provides up to €10,000 to cover travel, accommodation, research, and internship costs.

Removes financial barriers, allowing fellows to fully focus on learning and innovation.

4. Contribution to Global Challenges

Fellows engage in projects that address climate change, public health, food security, and medical advancements.

Supports research that leads to real-world solutions in drug discovery, healthcare, agriculture, and education.

How to Succeed in Getting the Bayer Fellowship

1. Choose the Right Fellowship Category

Select a category that aligns with your education, research focus, or professional background.

Ensure that your chosen field is relevant to science, agriculture, medicine, STEM education, or vocational training.

2. Develop a Strong Research/Project Proposal

Clearly outline your project’s objectives, methodology, expected outcomes, and relevance to global challenges.

Demonstrate how your project aligns with Bayer’s focus areas (healthcare, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, climate & health).

Show how the fellowship will contribute to your academic/professional growth and the wider scientific community.

3. Highlight Academic Excellence & Experience

Maintain a strong academic record, particularly in STEM, medicine, agriculture, or related fields.

Gain relevant research, internship, or industry experience to strengthen your application.

Obtain certifications, publications, or projects that demonstrate expertise.

4. Obtain Strong Recommendation Letters

Get recommendations from professors, employers, or research supervisors who can vouch for your potential.

The letters should highlight your skills, work ethic, and ability to contribute to global research.

5. Demonstrate Leadership & Initiative

Show involvement in scientific research, environmental projects, or community STEM initiatives.

Demonstrate your passion for innovation, problem-solving, and collaboration.

6. Apply Early & Follow Application Guidelines

Applications open from February 14 to April 11, 2025—start preparing well in advance.

Ensure all required documents, including CV, proposal, and recommendations, are ready before submission.

Double-check the format, eligibility criteria, and submission process on the Bayer Foundation website.

Final Tips

Research previous Bayer Fellows and their projects for insights.

Improve your scientific writing skills for a compelling proposal.

Clearly explain why you need this fellowship and how it will impact your career and field.

Show enthusiasm, originality, and a strong vision for your research or training.