In today’s interconnected academic world, fostering global research partnerships and facilitating international access to scholarly resources is more important than ever. In line with this vision, the Max Planck Institute for Legal History and Legal Theory (MPI LHLT) in Frankfurt, Germany, has once again announced its prestigious Doucet Scholarship for 2026.
Designed primarily for young researchers—especially those based in Latin America—the Doucet Scholarship provides an exceptional three-month, fully funded research opportunity at the Institute. This program enables promising scholars to engage deeply with one of the world’s most extensive legal history collections, contributing to a vibrant scholarly community and advancing global academic exchange.
| Host Country | Germany |
| Host Institute | Max Planck Institute for Legal History and Legal Theory |
| Eligible Candidates | Young Researchers |
| Eligible Nationality | International |
| Fellowship Type | Fully Funded |
| Duration | 3 months |
| Closing Date | 15 September 2025 |
Applications are currently open for the upcoming term (5 January–31 March 2026), with the submission deadline set for 15 September 2025. This blog offers a complete guide for aspiring candidates, covering scholarship details, eligibility, application steps, and insights into the research experience at MPI LHLT.
About the Max Planck Institute for Legal History and Legal Theory (MPI LHLT)
Situated in Frankfurt am Main, the MPI LHLT is internationally recognized for its leading-edge research in legal history, legal theory, and comparative law. It forms part of the acclaimed Max Planck Society, Germany’s premier research organization, known for fostering scholarly excellence across multiple disciplines.
The Institute boasts a world-class legal research library, featuring extensive resources across historical periods and regions—with particular strengths in Latin American legal traditions, colonial law, and transnational legal processes. As a hub of interdisciplinary study, it regularly hosts international researchers, conferences, and collaborative projects that contribute to shaping the global discourse on law and society.
The Doucet Scholarship is a key initiative of MPI LHLT, aimed at expanding access to its resources and enhancing scholarly interaction with underrepresented regions, particularly Latin America.
Origins and Mission of the Doucet Scholarship
Named in honor of a key figure instrumental in developing the Institute’s Latin American collections, the Doucet Scholarship embodies MPI LHLT’s commitment to academic diversity and inclusive knowledge production.
Established to support young legal researchers—especially from outside Germany—the scholarship provides funding and institutional support for a three-month research residency at the Institute. It offers participants an immersive environment for critical legal inquiry, scholarly exchange, and intellectual growth.
Each year, the Doucet Scholarship welcomes applications from international candidates who seek to explore the Institute’s resources and contribute to its mission of advancing legal historical scholarship from a truly global perspective.
Doucet Scholarship: Timeline and Key Dates
- Residency Period: 5 January 2026 – 31 March 2026
- Application Deadline: 15 September 2025
Selected scholars are expected to spend the full three-month term at MPI LHLT, participating actively in research discussions, using library resources, and engaging with the scholarly community.
Financial Support and Living Arrangements
The Doucet Scholarship provides generous financial assistance that covers essential expenses associated with the research stay.
Monthly Scholarship Stipend
- €1,365 per month
This amount is intended to cover basic living costs in Frankfurt, including food, public transport, and other day-to-day needs.
Travel Reimbursement
- Up to €1,500 for transatlantic airfare (e.g., from Latin America)
- Up to €750 for European flights
This travel grant helps ensure accessibility for international scholars by covering round-trip flight expenses.
Housing Options
- Institute Residences available at around €680/month
Scholars may rent fully furnished rooms in the Institute’s guest accommodations, which are conveniently located near the MPI LHLT. These are available only for full months and provide a comfortable living experience during the residency.
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Who Should Apply?
The Doucet Scholarship is aimed at early-career legal scholars who would benefit from MPI LHLT’s resources and interdisciplinary academic environment. While applicants from all non-German countries are welcome, the program prioritizes scholars from Latin America.
Suitable Profiles
- Graduate students (Master’s or PhD level) in law, history, legal theory, or related disciplines
- Postdoctoral researchers working on comparative or historical legal systems
- Young professionals in academia interested in global legal development
Evaluation Criteria
- Strong academic credentials in legal or historical research
- A compelling research proposal aligned with the Institute’s focus areas
- A demonstrated interest in Latin American legal cultures, comparative law, or transnational legal studies
- Potential for contribution to ongoing scholarly discourse at MPI LHLT
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Application Process: Step-by-Step
The application process is competitive and requires careful preparation. To maximize your chances, ensure your submission is complete, well-structured, and reflects a strong academic rationale.
Application Components
- Motivational Cover Letter
- Describe why you are applying
- Explain how the MPI LHLT will support your research goals
- Detailed Research Proposal (2–3 pages)
- Include your central research question, objectives, and methodology
- Indicate how the Institute’s resources and environment will aid your work
- Academic Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Include educational background, current position, research experience, publications, and skills
- Reference Letter(s)
- At least one academic recommendation is typically required
- Proof of Enrollment or Institutional Affiliation
- Relevant for students and affiliated researchers
Submission
All documents must be submitted electronically, following the guidelines provided on the Institute’s official Doucet Scholarship webpage. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
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Research Themes of Interest
MPI LHLT encourages projects that align with its broader research agenda. Preferred topics include—but are not limited to:
- Legal history of colonial and post-colonial Latin America
- Transnational legal transfers and cross-border legal interactions
- Legal pluralism and co-existing legal systems
- Law and empire, indigenous legal traditions, and legal anthropology
- Codification, modern legal systems, and legal education
Exploring these themes through the lens of underrepresented perspectives is particularly welcomed.
Living in Frankfurt: A Scholar’s Experience
Frankfurt, one of Germany’s most cosmopolitan cities, offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern innovation. With world-class public transportation, a thriving international academic scene, and diverse cultural life, it’s a fitting home for global scholars.
The MPI LHLT is centrally located and well-connected to libraries, universities, archives, and other research institutions. Past Doucet Scholars have highlighted the enriching experience of working in such a dynamic and inclusive environment.
Voices from Past Scholars
“My Doucet Scholarship transformed my academic journey. I accessed materials unavailable in my country and engaged with brilliant scholars from across the globe.” — Ana L., Argentina
“Frankfurt and the Institute gave me the academic space I needed to grow. The discussions, feedback, and library access were beyond my expectations.” — Carlos M., Mexico
These testimonials speak to the program’s reputation for impact and excellence.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Plan Early
- Begin your application several weeks before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.
- Be Specific in Your Research Proposal
- Tailor your proposal to the Institute’s areas of expertise.
- Demonstrate the Value of the Residency
- Highlight how the stay at MPI LHLT will contribute to your academic and professional development.
- Get Strong References
- Choose referees who know your work well and can provide thoughtful recommendations.
- Proofread and Review
- Clarity, coherence, and correct formatting will make your application stand out.
For details and application process, visit the official website.
Conclusion
The Doucet Scholarship 2026 represents more than just financial aid—it’s an invitation to engage with global legal history, to collaborate across borders, and to contribute to shaping the future of legal research.
For scholars from Latin America and beyond, this three-month residency at the Max Planck Institute for Legal History and Legal Theory offers a rare and rewarding opportunity to immerse yourself in a vibrant academic community and advance your research in profound ways.
With the application deadline approaching on 15 September 2025, now is the time to prepare your proposal, polish your CV, and take a bold step toward becoming part of this transformative program.
FAQs – Doucet Scholarship 2026
Q: Is fluency in German required?
A: No. English is the primary working language at the Institute, and most research resources are available in English or other widely used languages.
Q: Can I apply even if I’m not from Latin America?
A: Yes. While preference is given to applicants from Latin America, candidates from other regions outside Germany are also considered.
Q: Can the scholarship be extended?
A: The Doucet Scholarship is strictly limited to a three-month residency. Extensions are not part of the standard offer.
Q: Will health or travel insurance be provided?
A: Insurance is not covered by the scholarship. Selected scholars are advised to arrange their own health and travel insurance plans.
Q: Can I bring my family with me?
A: The scholarship is calculated for one person. Bringing family members is possible, but scholars must make their own arrangements.
