Participant (m/f/d) for our Postgraduate Programme for Sustainability Cooperation (PGP) German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS)

About IDOS and the Postgraduate Programme for Sustainability Cooperation

The German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS) is a renowned research institute and influential think tank. IDOS conducts empirical, theory-led and application-oriented research, facilitates transregional knowledge cooperation and training, and offers policy advice at the intersection of “development” and “sustainability”, with the aspiration to co-shape a collaborative multipolar world for sustainable futures. 

Our Postgraduate Programme for Sustainability Cooperation (PGP) enhances the competence of master’s graduates aspiring to a career in international cooperation for development and sustainability. The Postgraduate Programme offers a comprehensive 360-degree perspective on global cooperation, and participants learn competences for partnership-based cooperation. Participants gain a foundation for reflective and dedicated professional action and are part of our valuable network. Thus, the Programme is more than just a gateway into a career.

The application phase for the 62nd course of the PGP is open until 31 March 2026. 

To the application form!

What requirements do I have to fulfil for the application?

• Good to very good master's degree in economics, social sciences (e.g., political science/international relations, sociology, development research, social anthropology, area studies, social science-oriented sustainability research) or 2nd state examination in law or 1st state examination (teaching degree)
• Qualifying degree must not have been obtained more than five years prior to the start of the course
• Language proficiency in English (C1); proficiency in German (C1) is desired; good knowledge of another language (preferably a UN language or Portuguese) is an asset
• German or EU citizenship (including Schengen area), or a German residence permit
• Stays in or transnational relations to Africa, Asia and Latin America are an asset (e.g., internships, voluntary services, work or study visits)
• Personal motivation to work in global cooperation for sustainable development

Even if, at first glance, your CV does not seem to point straight to the programme at IDOS, we would like to encourage you to apply. Life experiences can be diverse. Perhaps internships or stays abroad were not possible or your studies were prolonged due to COVID-19, finances or health issues. Diversity of experience enriches our professional field.

If the grade for the master’s degree is not yet available, transcripts are required; master’s degree grades are due August 31.

What does the Programme cost?

The programme is free of charge. All participants receive a scholarship of € 1,500 per month. IDOS covers additional costs for the research stays.

How does the application process work?

After a careful internal pre-selection, 48 candidates are given the opportunity to present themselves in person as part of the main digital selection process. An expert committee decides on admission to the Programme, taking particular account of the applicants’ professional qualification, ability to work in a team and social competences, motivation for the professional field and the Postgraduate Programme.

We are happy to answer your questions. Please contact the Postgraduate Programme Team.