TheMuseumsLab

About the Open Call

TheMuseumsLab programme has the objective to foster joint learning, perspective exchange, networking and career building among African and European museum professionals. It brings them together to build bridges between individuals, institutions, nations and two continents for an engaged discussion on how museums can confront their past, meet the present needs of society and work towards an equitable future. The programme consists of a digital programme Kick-Off, three seminar modules (online, onsite in Berlin, and onsite in Africa), short residencies at African and European partner museums, and a digital closing event. Programme activities will take place from 6 May to 2 December 2026. The programme is financed by the Federal Government Commissioner for Culture and Media and the German Federal Foreign Office, and is jointly organised by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and the Museum für Naturkunde Berlin (MfN).

What is Offered

The programme covers participation in the complete 2026 programme. For the onsite phases, DAAD covers international and national transport (lowest possible economy class airfare and 2nd class train tickets), local public transport during Module 2, Module 3 and the Residencies, airport transfers (Module 3 in Kigali, Residencies in Africa if applicable), visa fees (reimbursement), health insurance (reimbursement up to 40 Euros), accommodation during the onsite Modules and Residency Locations, programme related entrance fees, and a daily allowance (limited compensation for meals not provided in the programme) during the onsite Modules and Residencies. All programme related travels and accommodations will also be arranged and booked by the DAAD.

Requirements

Applicants must be African or European museum professionals with at least two years' practical experience in the museum, heritage, or art sector, relating to themes such as Archaeology, Architecture, Art, Cultural History, Natural Sciences and Technology. Commitment to participating in all programme activities and adequate English language proficiency (written and spoken) are essential. Applicants must have a place of residence in Africa or Europe at the time of applying and cannot be a former alumna/alumnus of TheMuseumsLab programme.

How to Apply

Applications can be submitted between 21 October and 2 December 2025 (23:59 CET) via the DAAD portal. Applicants must register in the portal, download and complete the DAAD standard online application form, and prepare additional documents including the specific TheMuseumsLab Application Form, CV, and a Letter of Recommendation. Optional documents like Degree Certificates, information about work projects, and language certificates can also be uploaded. All documents must be in English (or translated) and uploaded as PDF files. The application process requires online submission of all documents through the DAAD portal.