GrACe

The Freie Universität Berlin and the network ''Single Parents in German Academia'' are calling for submissions to the first Germany-wide essay competition for single and separated parents in academia.

Students, doctoral candidates, postdocs and professors who would like to share their story are invited to take part. The essay call invites reflection on the challenges and strategies of parenthood in academia - such as precarious employment conditions, mobility requirements and balancing care responsibilities with an academic career.

The three winners will receive cash prizes of 1,000€, 600€ and €400 respectively.

To apply, submit your 7-10 page essay together with a short biographical note and your contact details in a single document to both email addresses: Bianca Scholtyssek and Dr. Elisa-Maria Hiemer.

Submission deadline: 18 October 2026.

Further information can be found here.