The Fritz Thyssen Foundation awards 50 sponsorships every year to junior researchers who wish to undertake autonomous, fixed-term research immediately following their doctorates. Highly qualified post-doctoral candidates from all disciplines are eligible to apply. They carry out research at a higher-education institution or a non-profit research institution and receive a monthly sponsorship of EUR 1,800, independent of age. To cover material and travel expenses, i.e. for books or trips to other work groups which are directly related to the research work, candidates may be granted an allowance of EUR 200 per month. In addition, contributions to the stipendee's travel to the research location are paid and, if necessary, a child allowance is also provided. Applications for stipends can be submitted at any time. An answer is generally provided within eight weeks.