My First DFG Proposal in the Natural, Life and Engineering Sciences: From Research Idea to a Convincing Funding Application

A strong research idea is essential – but a successful proposal must convince reviewers that the research question matters, that there is a clearly defined gap, and that the proposed project is both innovative and feasible. It should guide reviewers through a coherent scientific argument.

In this highly interactive two-day workshop, you will learn how to turn your research idea into a coherent and convincing DFG proposal. You will work on the core elements of a successful application: 

• navigate relevant DFG funding opportunities and understand what the DFG expects from applicants
• translate a research idea into a clear and compelling proposal logic
• articulate the scientific problem, research gap, objectives and significance of a project
• create a coherent storyline connecting the state of the art, objectives, methodology and work programme
• anticipate critical reviewer questions and identify weaknesses before submission

We will also explore how generative AI can support the proposal development process – for example, by challenging your project logic, testing your storyline, identifying potential weaknesses, structuring ideas, and simulating reviewer questions.

The workshop is strongly practice-oriented. You will work with authentic DFG materials and proposal examples, apply the concepts directly to your own project, exchange peer feedback, and experience proposal evaluation from the reviewer’s perspective.

Date: Tue, 16 + Wed, 17 February 2027, 09:00–15:00 h
Location: online via Zoom
Target group: Postdocs in the Natural, Life and Engineering Sciences of the UA Ruhr Universities (max. 12 participants)
Trainer: Dr. habil. Alexander Schiller
Registration deadline: 02 February 2027
Contact for organizational Questions: event@rs.rub.de

Further information and registration