DZIF Rising Star Award

This year, for the first time, the German Center for Infection Research (DZIF) is presenting the DZIF Rising Star Award to recognize outstanding young DZIF researchers in the field of translational infection research. Researchers can apply to the DZIF Academy until October 31st, 2026.
With a prize of 2,500 euros, the award recognizes outstanding scientific achievements in the field of translational infectious disease research. The DZIF Rising Star Award is presented annually. The winner will have the opportunity to present their award-winning work at the annual DZIF Joint Meeting.

The call for applications is open to all clinicians and researchers working at a DZIF institution who are on the path to scientific independence. The award recognizes application-oriented, translational work in the field of infectious disease research. The evaluation criteria include the degree of innovation, scientific quality, translational potential, and individual career development. Examples include innovative prevention or treatment approaches, new diagnostic developments, the patenting of a new methodology or therapy, and publications in prestigious journals.

Candidates may apply directly to the DZIF Academy or be nominated by a mentor. The consent of the nominated person must be obtained for a nomination.

DZIF early-career researchers whose doctoral degree was awarded no more than 8 years prior to the application deadline are eligible to apply. Family and caregiving leave, as well as other career interruptions to be considered under DFG regulations, will be taken into account appropriately. Such periods may be briefly noted in the resume.

The following documents must be submitted with the application:

• A description of no more than one page outlining the focus of the research, the most important results, and their scientific and translational significance
• A curriculum vitae of no more than five pages, including details on the current position, the date of the Ph.D., prizes and awards, and relevant third-party funding
• A complete list of publications, with up to five of the most important publications for the application highlighted
• Two letters of recommendation, one of which should ideally be from an independent person outside the applicant’s immediate work environment
• Information on third-party funding secured and the applicant’s role in securing it, if applicable

Please submit your application electronically as a PDF file to the DZIF Academy.