The Max Planck Institute for Legal History and Legal Theory is offering an exciting chance for early-career researchers through its Doucet Scholarship 2026. This scholarship offers a fully funded three-month research opportunity in Frankfurt, Germany from January 5 to March 31, 2026, with a focus on the history of colonial law, particularly in Hispanoamerica. If you’re passionate about exploring the legal systems during the colonial period and have an interest in Hispanoamerican legal history, this is an opportunity you shouldn’t miss.
The scholarship provides not only financial support, but also travel reimbursements, accommodation, and the chance to engage with one of the world’s most extensive archives on colonial legal history – the Doucet Collection. Below, we’ve outlined everything you need to know about this opportunity, including how to apply, who can apply, and why it is an essential step in furthering your academic career.
Max Planck Institute’s Doucet Scholarship 2026 Is Now Open
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Type | Fully funded three-month research opportunity |
| Location | Max Planck Institute for Legal History and Legal Theory, Frankfurt, Germany |
| Stipend | €1,365 per month |
| Airfare Reimbursement | Up to €1,500 for transatlantic flights, €750 for intra-European flights |
| Accommodation | Optional room rental (€680 per month) |
| Research Focus | Colonial legal history, especially related to Hispanoamerica, using the Doucet Collection |
| Eligibility | Early-career researchers, with a focus on Latin American scholars |
| Application Deadline | September 15, 2025 |
The Doucet Scholarship 2026 at the Max Planck Institute for Legal History and Legal Theory is an incredible opportunity for young researchers to deepen their knowledge of colonial legal history. With access to the Doucet Collection, financial support, and a world-class research environment, this scholarship can help shape the future of your academic career.
If you are passionate about exploring Hispanoamerican legal history and contributing to this vital field of study, be sure to submit your application before the September 15, 2025 deadline. This is your chance to make a lasting impact in the world of legal history.
Why the Doucet Scholarship Matters to Colonial Legal History
Colonial legal history is an often overlooked but crucial field of study that helps to illuminate the ways in which legal systems evolved in the colonies and how these laws impacted indigenous populations. The Doucet Scholarship directly engages with this area by allowing researchers to examine historical texts from the Doucet Collection, which is one of the largest and most important collections of legal history materials focusing on colonial Latin America.
By supporting young scholars in exploring these historical documents, the scholarship helps advance the academic understanding of the complex relationship between colonial powers and the legal structures they imposed on indigenous societies. It provides scholars with access to critical primary sources that are not widely available elsewhere, making it a unique opportunity for anyone in the field.
The Research Environment at the Max Planck Institute
The Max Planck Institute for Legal History and Legal Theory is renowned for providing a dynamic and collaborative research environment. Researchers at the Institute are encouraged to engage with scholars from diverse backgrounds, which creates a vibrant academic community. You will have access to a wide range of resources, including the Doucet Collection, archives, databases, and expert guidance from leading historians in the field.
The Institute fosters interdisciplinary research, making it an ideal environment for exploring the intersections between law, history, politics, and culture. Researchers at the Institute benefit from world-class facilities, cutting-edge research tools, and access to a network of esteemed scholars, ensuring that the work you do during your scholarship will be at the forefront of your field.
How This Scholarship Can Enhance Your Career
Being awarded the Doucet Scholarship offers significant professional and academic benefits. Not only will you have the opportunity to contribute to the field of colonial legal history, but you will also gain international recognition for your research. Having Max Planck Institute listed on your academic resume can be a powerful boost to your career, opening doors to academic positions, speaking engagements, and further research collaborations.
In addition to academic growth, the scholarship provides ample opportunities for networking with top scholars in the field, building connections that can lead to future research opportunities, publication prospects, and even funding for future projects. It also provides an excellent opportunity to expand your professional portfolio, as the work you produce can contribute to books, articles, or future research that could shape the field for years to come.
Success Stories: Impact of the Doucet Scholarship
While specific success stories of previous recipients are not always readily available, the Doucet Scholarship has a proven track record of advancing research in the field of colonial legal history. Past participants have gone on to publish their work in leading journals, collaborate with international experts, and contribute to the broader field of legal history.
For example, scholars who have spent time at the Max Planck Institute have produced significant work on how colonial legal systems shaped the modern legal systems in Latin America. Some have even used their research to advocate for legal reforms in their home countries, demonstrating the real-world impact of the scholarship.
How to Apply: Max Planck Institute’s Doucet Scholarship 2026 Is Now Open Guide
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Before you start your application, ensure you have the following documents ready:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) – Make sure your resume is up to date and includes any relevant research experience, academic qualifications, and publications.
- Project Description – Write a clear and concise description of your proposed research. Make sure it aligns with the Doucet Collection and the focus on colonial legal history.
- Motivation Letter – This is your chance to explain why you’re interested in the Doucet Scholarship and how it will help you advance your academic and professional goals.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application Form
Visit the official Doucet Scholarship Application page to fill out the application form. Be sure to carefully follow the instructions provided.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Ensure that all the required documents are uploaded. Double-check your submission for accuracy, then hit the submit button before the September 15, 2025 deadline.
Step 4: Wait for the Results
After submission, the Max Planck Institute will review your application. If selected, you will be contacted for further details and arrangements.
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FAQs about Max Planck Institute’s Doucet Scholarship 2026 Is Now Open
1. What is the deadline for the Doucet Scholarship 2026?
The application deadline is September 15, 2025. Make sure to submit your materials before this date.
2. How much is the stipend for the Doucet Scholarship?
The scholarship offers a €1,365 monthly stipend to cover living expenses.
3. Can I apply if I am not from Latin America?
Yes, the scholarship is open to researchers worldwide, though there is a particular emphasis on applicants from Latin America.
4. What are the benefits of the Doucet Scholarship?
The scholarship covers living expenses, provides travel reimbursements, and gives you access to the Doucet Collection for research. You will also experience the academic environment of the Max Planck Institute.
5. How long is the Doucet Scholarship?
The scholarship lasts for three months, from January 5 to March 31, 2026.
