Call for Applications: GAIN26 Annual Conference & Talent Fair

Applications are now open for the GAIN26 Annual Conference & Talent Fair, taking place from August 21–23, 2026, in San Francisco, California. The event is the largest German science and research career fair for postdoctoral researchers in North America.

GAIN (German Academic International Network) is a joint initiative of the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation (AvH), and the German Research Foundation (DFG). The annual conference brings together postdocs, researchers, and representatives of leading German universities, research institutions, and funding organizations.

Over the course of three days, participants will have the opportunity to connect with more than 500 postdocs, scientists, and experts, explore a talent fair featuring over 70 German institutions, and attend a wide range of workshops offered in both English and German. The program also includes one-on-one meetings with recruiters to discuss career opportunities and funding options, as well as the chance to present research at the GAIN Science Slam.

Postdoctoral researchers from all disciplines based in the United States and Canada are eligible to apply for a GAIN participation scholarship. The scholarship covers conference fees, meals, and two nights of accommodation at the conference hotel.

For those unable to attend the full program, a free Saturday afternoon workshop series is also available.

Application and registration: https://gain26.converve.io
Free Saturday program: https://www.gain-network.org/en/annual-gain-conference-2/gain26-registration-for-free-program-on-saturday-afternoon/
More information: https://www.gain-network.org/en/annual-gain-conference/

Contact Jana Groh at groh@daad.de

This conference offers an excellent opportunity for postdoctoral researchers to expand their professional network, explore career prospects in Germany, and engage directly with key players in the German research landscape.