The Walter Benjamin Kolleg unites the manifold inter- and transdisciplinary research activities within the Faculty of Humanities at the University of Bern, Switzerland. It is particularly committed to the advancement of early-career researchers. To this end, the Kolleg awards the annual prize „Young Scholars“ (worth CHF 1,500) to one excellent researcher from Switzerland or abroad who vividly communicates their interdisciplinary research to a broad public.
„Young Scholars“ aims to identify and promote young talent by increasing their visibility, creating networking opportunities, and boosting their scientific development. In turn, young scholars at the Kolleg benefit from the exchange with the awardees, enhancing dialogue and collaboration among peers.
The prize will be awarded in fall term 2026 in Bern.
Selection criteria
• Outstanding interdisciplinary research in the humanities in Switzerland or abroad
• Experience in communicating one’s own research to a broad public
• Ph.D. that was awarded no more than five years ago (net academic age)
• Clear intellectual connections and potential points of collaboration with the Kolleg
• International candidates are especially welcome.
