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Dear DAAD Friends and Alumni!🎓
Welcome to the Spring edition of the DAAD Australia Newsletter!
As the academic year progresses, we are pleased to bring you the latest news, opportunities and activities connecting Australia and Germany in higher education, research and culture.
This issue highlights the people and programmes supporting international exchange — from DAAD Teaching Assistants and Lecturers to new perspectives on Science Diplomacy and the DAAD International Podcast Project.
We also look at exciting developments in research cooperation, including Australia’s strengthened participation in Horizon Europe and the success of German universities in the European Universities Initiative.
Across Australia, German Weeks 2026 are celebrating the diverse connections between our two countries, while Germany Cultural Day in Sydney will showcase German culture, science and education.
Key topics in this issue include:
- Deutschlehren.International Programme: Teaching German Abroad with the DAAD
- DAAD Teaching Assistants 2026 in Australia
- From DAAD Teaching Assistant to DAAD Lecturer: A Career Journey
- Science Diplomacy in Focus: Highlights from the DAAD Summer School for Lecturers
- DAAD International Podcast Project
- German Weeks Australia 2026: Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Darwin, Melbourne and Perth
- Germany Cultural Day 2026 in Sydney
- Horizon Europe: Australia Strengthens Research Cooperation with the European Union
- German Universities Once Again Successful in the European Universities Initiative
- Research in Germany Spotlight: Postdocs and Advanced Research
- Scholarships, Grants and Programmes
We hope you enjoy this edition!
With kind regards,
Silke Schoppe and Michael Rieke
Photo: IC Sydney
| | DAAD Australia Information Centre Sydney Contact Details | | |
For enquiries and information, please contact the DAAD Information Centre in Sydney:
Telephone: +61272088119
Email: info@daad-australia.org
Teleconferencing: please contact us via email, and our friendly staff will arrange an appointment and provide you with an access link.
Photo: IC Sydney
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Deutschlehren.International Programme:
Teaching German Abroad with DAAD
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Teaching Assistant Scholarships for German at Universities in Australia for 2028.
‘Deutschlehren.International’ is the new name of the DAAD Language Assistant Programme. It is designed for recent university graduates who are eager to gain hands-on teaching experience in German as a foreign language while engaging in intercultural exchange.
The programme offers the opportunity to teach German at a university abroad — including in Australia — for a period of 10 to 12 months, supported by a DAAD scholarship.
The global call for applications for the 2027/2028 academic year has already begun.
The deadline for applications is 24 November 2026.
The programme is funded by the DAAD with funds from the German Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space.
Find the full programme details, including a list of global placement locations, contact information, and a link to the application portal, here.
The following section provides insights into the work experience of current DAAD Teaching Assistant Programme 2026 scholarship holders at their respective Australian universities.
Photo: IC Sydney
| | DAAD Teaching Assistants 2026 in Australia | | |
My time as a DAAD-Teaching Assistant in Adelaide has been incredibly rewarding, both professionally and personally. Being so far from home was challenging at times, but it taught me to become more independent and adaptable. One of my highlights was seeing what I had learned during my studies come to life in the classroom, working with motivated students and experiencing university life from a teacher’s perspective.
Teaching German as a Foreign Language has always fascinated me and teaching it abroad has given me a new perspective on the German language and culture, while also discovering South Australia’s German heritage.
I highly recommend applying for a DAAD-Teaching Assistant position since it is a unique opportunity to gain confidence as a teacher, build lasting connections and discover Australia as a place to live, work and call home.
Text: Alina Bergkemper, DAAD Teaching Assistant, Adelaide University
Photo: Goethe-Institut, China
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From a small town in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany, to a vibrant metropolis on the other side of the world – the DAAD Deutschlehren.International scholarship makes this unique experience possible. As a DAAD-Teaching Assistant at Monash University, I have already gained valuable teaching experience in an international academic environment while immersing myself in a new culture. In my free time I love to explore Melbourne, one of the world’s most liveable cities. Moreover, I enjoy discovering Australia’s breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife on road trips, creating many unforgettable memories along the way.
Text and photo: Susan Buchmann, DAAD Teaching Assistant, Monash University, Melbourne
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Down Under - Hoch hinaus!
You want to know what my life as a DAAD-Teaching Assistant at the University of Melbourne looks like?
From a German lecture hall with bottles of Club-Mate on the desks to an Australian classroom with Aussie mates behind them, waiting for me to explain der, die, das and Lokalpräpositionen - that's roughly my daily routine.
Along the way, I haven’t just swapped German bread for Vegemite on toast and German winter for Melbourne’s famous 4 seasons in a day. No, I have also traded my seat as a student for the front of the classroom!
It’s this literal shift from listening to teaching that makes the DAAD assistantship so rewarding. Moving not only halfway across the globe, but also taking my theoretical knowledge straight into practice, while supporting international exchange and contribute to cultural events in and outside the university. That's why, the Deutschlehren.International Program is the perfect opportunity to gain real higher-ed teaching experience without needing a PhD and backed by dedicated academic and financial support.
Text and photo: Sara-Marie Weinkopf, DAAD Teaching Assistant, University of Melbourne
| A journey from DAAD Teaching Assistant to DAAD Lecturer | |
Melbourne, Wuhan and the DAAD in between
When I arrived in Melbourne at the beginning of 2025 to start my time as a DAAD Teaching Assistant at Monash University, I had, as so often, many ideas and options for my future career in mind, but I was not yet entirely sure which path I wanted to take. While in Melbourne, I learned a great deal - not only about the university, but also about the DAAD and the day-to-day life, as well as the wide-ranging and exciting responsibilities of a DAAD lecturer.
On paper, becoming a DAAD lecturer had already seemed like a kind of “natural next step” for me after my teaching assistantship. Yet I was still unsure whether it was really the right path for me. After several weeks of reflection and some motivating conversations with my colleagues at Monash, I finally decided to apply for a lectureship.
I am now very proud to be starting my new role as a DAAD lecturer at Wuhan University in China in September 2026. Taking such a big step into the future always comes with a fair amount of excitement and nervousness - but now, so shortly before the start, there is not much of the latter left.
I am very much looking forward to working with the students and to soon welcoming Wuhan as my new home.
Photo and text: Leonie Rotsche (translation by IC Sydney)
| | Science Diplomacy in Focus at the DAAD Summer for Lecturers | | |
Annual DAAD Lecturers' Meeting in Bonn
From 14. – 17. July, more than 200 DAAD lecturers from around the globe, among them the lecturers at Australian universities, followed DAAD’s invitation to join the 2026 edition of the annual lecturers’ summer meeting in Bonn.
After last year’s 100-year jubilee celebrations, DAAD General Secretary Kai Sicks brought future perspectives into focus. One of the event’s central themes was Science Diplomacy and Knowledge Security. Prof. Ulrich Schlie, Director of the Center for Advanced Security, Strategi and Integration Studies (CASSIS), elaborated on the topic in his keynote on “The Impact of the Current Geopolitical Situation on Foreign Cultural and Educational Policy”. A DAAD-Impulse session later expanded further on the topic, fostering discussion about international scientific cooperations in the increasingly complex landscape of science security.
Overall, the four-day event prioritized knowledge and network expansion through exchange among lecturers, DAAD program representatives, and other DAAD officials in different formats, such as workshops led by DAAD lecturers and external experts on practical, teaching-related, and career-shaping topics.
The Oceanic region was represented at the poster walk with the project ‘Regional meeting for DAAD lecturers of the Indo-Pacific’ that took place in Auckland in November 2025.
Text: Jessica Lesjak, DAAD-Lecturer Monash University, Melbourne
Photo: Michael Jordan
| | DAAD International Podcast Project | |
Kiwi, Kuckuck & Känguru: International Podcasting as Authentic Language Learning
How can students from Australia, New Zealand, and Germany use German not only in the university classroom but as a genuine communication skill?
Our answer was an international podcast project:
Kiwi, Kuckuck & Känguru – Studentische Stimmen im Gespräch brought together students from the University of Melbourne, the University of Auckland, and the University of Augsburg in multinational teams to produce German-language podcasts on various topics connected to the semester theme Self, Language and Identity.
Rather than completing a traditional assignment, students created podcasts for a public audience, which can be listened to on Spotify and wherever podcasts are available.
Topics ranged from Freudian dream analysis and multilingualism to children's literature, authenticity, colonial history, and the relationship between humans and nature. Throughout the project, students developed not only their German language proficiency but also essential future skills, including intercultural communication, digital storytelling, collaboration, and project management.
The project demonstrated how powerful authentic, project-based learning can be. As a lecturer, I found myself acting less as a transmitter of knowledge and more as a facilitator, and mentor. The collaboration with colleagues in Auckland and Augsburg, supported by the DAAD, highlighted the potential of Virtual Exchange to connect students across continents and create meaningful learning experiences that extend well beyond the classroom.
Tune into the podcast here.
Text and image: Andreas Wiebel, DAAD-Lecturer University of Melbourne
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German Weeks Australia:
Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Darwin, Melbourne and Perth
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German Weeks 2026: 🇩🇪🇦🇺
Celebrating German-Australian Connections
German Weeks are back across Australia in 2026! From culture and language to education, science and innovation, events across the country will celebrate the many connections between Germany and Australia.
German Weeks offer a chance to experience Germany through music, film, literature, food and language, while also bringing together people interested in German-Australian exchange and cooperation.
The DAAD is pleased to contribute to selected events in Melbourne, Canberra and Sydney, supporting activities that highlight the close links between our two countries in education, research, science and culture.
In Melbourne, the programme includes the Science and Arts Slam at Monash University, bringing science, creativity and the German-Australian connection together in an engaging format.
In Canberra, the DAAD Information Centre Sydney will contribute to Science and Innovation Day on 22 October, highlighting the strong connections between Germany and Australia in research and innovation.
Further details on the DAAD’s activities will follow soon – stay tuned!
Read on on the German Weeks in Australia 2026 website.
Photo: Canva
| Germany Cultural Day 2026 Sydney | |
Community Festival at the Goethe Institut
A celebration of German culture, community and creativity returns to Sydney this spring! On Saturday, 17 October 2026, from 1pm to 9pm, the Goethe-Institut in Woollahra will once again open its doors and gardens for a lively day of German-inspired entertainment and activities.
Now in its fourth year, German Cultural Day brings together music, dance, food and drink, language, information and plenty of activities for visitors of all ages. The beautiful heritage grounds of the Goethe-Institut, together with the iconic piece of the Berlin Wall in the surrounding park, provide a unique setting for performances, market stalls, family activities and more.
The DAAD Australia will also be there! Drop by for a chat and discover opportunities to study and research in Germany, explore the German higher education system and find out more about DAAD scholarships and funding programmes.
Whether you have a connection to Germany or are simply curious to discover more, come along and enjoy a day of German culture right in the heart of Sydney.
Wir freuen uns auf Euch – we look forward to seeing you there!
Find further information here.
Image: Goethe-Institut Australia
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Horizon Europe:
Australia Strengthens Research Cooperation with the European Union
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Horizon Europe
Opportunities for researchers, industry and business to join projects through the world’s largest pooled funding program for international science and innovation collaboration.
An agreement with the European Commission will enable Australia to associate with Pillar II of the EU’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme from 2027. In addition to access to funding opportunities, this will enable Australian researchers and universities to lead international collaborations, deepen European partnerships and actively contribute to shaping research agendas. The focus is on addressing global challenges in areas such as climate, health and digital technologies.
Horizon Europe is the European Union’s main funding programme for research and innovation with a budget of roughly €95.5 billion.
It is much more than a traditional research grant programme. Its central purpose is to bring researchers, universities, research organisations, companies and other partners together in large international collaborative projects addressing major scientific, technological and societal challenges.
Read the full article on Universities World News website
Further information can be found here and here
Photo: Canva
| German Universities Once Again Successful in the ‘European Universities’ Initiative | |
EU Rankings
The European Commission announced the results of the latest selection round of the ‘European Universities’ initiative: 23 German universities were successful with their applications. This means that 68 German universities are now involved in European university alliances. German universities are also represented in all 20 alliances selected in this round. The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) ongratulates the successful universities.
The European Commission has selected 19 existing European University Alliances for continued funding, with one new alliance added. German universities are involved in all 20 selected alliances. Around 146 million euros are available for the current call for proposals. Each alliance will thus receive up to seven million euros for the next two years.
The DAAD and the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR) are providing additional funding to the successful German universities as part of the national accompanying programme ‘European University Networks (EUN) – National Initiative’.
Read the press release here
Photo: Canva
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A Spotlight on:
Postdocs and Advanced Research
Coming to Germany to start your postdoc career can feel challenging. There are many different opportunities but no fixed guidelines on what this phase is supposed to look like. With more than 25,000 research institutions, Germany offers a wide choice of universities and non-university research institutes across all disciplines at which you can do your postdoc research.
Research in Germany offers lots of information on research and work in Germany. You will find details on various opportunities in science and research. The website specifically addressing postdocs provides links to career options as well as dual careers, funding programmes and funding organisations. Furthermore, it links to funding databases and job portals. Your postdoc should open doors, not create uncertainty. Discover how Germany can support your next career step and start exploring your opportunities.
Find further information here.
Photo: iStock/RealPeopleGroup
| DAAD Magazine Letter: Space | |
Shaping the Future of Space Together
Ready to look beyond our atmosphere? The latest issue of DAAD Letter takes you on a journey into outer space. This issue explores how space has transformed into a critical strategic and political arena. From astrophysics to space policy, discover how international collaboration shapes the rules of governance beyond Earth.
Do not miss these fascinating insights into the new space age and get inspired by breakthrough research from global experts and DAAD alumni.
Read the complete digital edition in German or English here.
Image: DAAD Letter
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ZEIT GERMANY:
Study and Research 2026-27
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Every year, German magazine ZEIT publishes 'ZEIT GERMANY: Study and Research' for international high-school graduates, university students and young scientists around the globe who want to study or research in Germany.
In each issue, you’ll find everything you need to know about moving to the country to study, research in a field of science, and experience the culture.
Read the latest online edition here.
Image: Zeitverlag
| Scholarships, Grants and Programmes | | |
Call for Applications
DAAD Study Scholarships - Postgraduate Studies in the Field of Architecture
This scholarship offers funding for projects in the area of design and planning. Lasting 10-24 months, the scholarship is suitable for foreign applicants who have gained a first university degree in the areas of Architecture, Interior Design, Monument Conservation, Urban Planning/Urban Development, Regional Planning, Landscape Architecture & Landscape Planning.
Application deadline: 23 September 2026
(Start of funding in September 2027)
Funded by the DAAD with funds from the German Federal Foreign Ministry.
Further information is available here.
Photo: Canva
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Call for Applications
DAAD Study Scholarships - Postgraduate Studies in the Field of Music
This scholarship programme offers students with a first degree the opportunity to continue their academic education in Germany with a postgraduate or continuing course of study in the field of music. The scholarships also promote the exchange of experience and networking amongst colleagues.
Application deadline: 24 September 2026 (Start of funding in October 2027)
Funded by the DAAD with funds from the German Federal Foreign Ministry.
Further information is available here.
Photo: Canva
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Call for Applications
DAAD RISE Worldwide - Hosting German Bachelor students for internships in 2027
Are you a researcher, doctoral student or part of a research group or laboratory? The DAAD RISE Worldwide program offers you the opportunity to host a Bachelor student from a German university as a research intern to support your project.
Students come from diverse fields - biology, chemistry, physics, earth sciences, engineering, computer science, medicine, and related disciplines - and receive a DAAD scholarship to carry out a research stay in your working group for up to 3 months, between Juni and October 2027.
Internship offers can be submitted by 30 September 2026.
Funded by the DAAD with funds from the German Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space.
Further information is available here.
Photo: Canva
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Call for Applications
DAAD Research Grants in Germany for Doctoral Candidates and Postdocs
Doctoral students interested in pursuing a research project in Germany are invited to apply for funding for a period of between 2 and 12 months. Similarly, postdoctoral researchers who have already obtained a PhD are eligible to apply for funding periods of between 2 and 6 months.
Application deadline: 7 October 2026
(Start of funding in Mai 2027)
Funded by the DAAD with funds from the German Federal Foreign Ministry.
Further information is available here.
Photo: Canva
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Call for Applications
DAAD Alumni - Re-invitation Programme
for former Scholarship Holders
This funding programme invites previous holders of scholarships and grants to return to Germany for research and working projects. DAAD Alumni in Australia can establish new contacts, promote cooperation and extend their network in Germany for up to 3 months.
Application deadline: 7 October 2026
(Start of funding in Mai 2027)
Funded by the DAAD with funds from the German Federal Foreign Ministry.
Further information is available here.
Photo: Canva
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Call for Applications
DAAD Study Visits for Academics: Artists and Architects
This Study Visit Programme for Artists and Architects promotes artistic cooperation between Australia and Germany. Academic teachers of Architecture, Fine Art, Design, Visual Communications, Performing Arts and Music are invited to work on a research project in cooperation with a German host institution. The artistic cooperation stay is funded for a period up to 3 months.
Application deadline: 7 October 2026
(Start of funding in Mai 2027)
Funded by the DAAD with funds from the German Federal Foreign Ministry.
Further information is available here.
Photo: Canva
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Call for Applications
DAAD Study Scholarships - Postgraduate Studies in the Fields of Fine Arts, Design, Visual Communication and Film
This scholarship programme offers you the opportunity to continue your education in Germany with a postgraduate or continuing course of study in the fields Fine Art, Design, Visual Communication and Film. The scholarships also promote the exchange of experience and networking amongst colleagues.
Application deadline: 15 October 2026
(Start of funding in October 2027)
Funded by the DAAD with funds from the German Federal Foreign Ministry.
Further information is available here.
Photo: Canva
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Call for Applications
DAAD Study Scholarships - Postgraduate Studies in the Field of Performing Arts
This scholarship programme offers students with a first degree the opportunity to continue their education in Germany with a postgraduate or continuing course of study. The scholarships also promote the exchange of experience and networking amongst colleagues.
Application deadline: 15 October 2026
(Start of funding in October 2027)
Funded by the DAAD with funds from the German Federal Foreign Ministry.
Further information is available here.
Photo: Canva
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Call for Applications
DAAD Study Scholarships - Master Studies for All Academic Disciplines
This 10-24 month scholarship provides excellently-qualified graduates who have completed a first degree (Bachelor, Diplom or comparable academic degree, with the opportunity to continue their academic education in Germany.
Application deadline: 21 October 2026
(Start of funding in October 2027)
Funded by the DAAD with funds from the German Federal Foreign Ministry.
Further information is available here.
Photo: Canva
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Call for Applications
DAAD Grants: Bi-nationally Supervised Doctoral Degrees/ Cotutelle
This programme offers the opportunity to pursue a bi-national doctoral degree at a home university and at a university in Germany.
There are two options available:
a) Doctorate with bi-national supervision
b) Doctorate following the “Cotutelle” procedure.
Application deadline: 21 October 2026
(Start of funding in October 2027)
Funded by the DAAD with funds from the German Federal Foreign Ministry.
Further information is available here.
Photo: Canva
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