The iNum program is a new joint initiative between the NSFC (China) and the DFG (Germany) that supports cutting-edge research at the intersection of numerical methods and machine learning. The program offers up to three years of funding for collaborative projects between Chinese and German researchers.This call is designed to encourage fresh approaches that push beyond traditional numerical mathematics and open new directions in applied mathematics, computational science, and engineering.
Key Research Themes:
Projects are expected to address innovative challenges such as:
- Learning of numerical parameters and adaptive criteria.
- Model reduction and multi-scale methods enhanced with AI components.
- Advanced iterative solvers and parallelization strategies.
- Load balancing, error control, and computational performance.
- Scalable algorithms, sparsification, and optimization for machine learning.
These topics highlight the program’s dual focus:
- Learning-based numerics – making classical numerical methods more efficient, robust, and adaptive.
- Numerically efficient learning methods – creating algorithms that make machine learning itself faster and more scalable.
Eligibility:
- German Applicants: Must follow DFG’s Research Grants (Sachbeihilfe) guidelines. Non-university researchers need a university partner.
- Chinese Applicants: Must meet NSFC’s eligibility requirements.
- Restrictions: Projects linked to military institutions or applications will not be considered.
Proposal Submission Process:
- Proposals must be written in English and submitted separately to both funding bodies.
- German PIs: Apply via the DFG elan system. (First-time applicants must register by 23 October 2025.)
- Chinese PIs: Submit through the NSFC portal.
- Applications must include:
- A detailed research plan.
- Information about the project team.
- A coordinated budget for both sides.
Check Also: Free State Of Bavaria One Year Scholarships
Final Submission Deadline: 30 October 2025
Results Announcement: By May 2026
Funding Duration: Up to 3 years
Official Call Details (DFG Website)
Why This Opportunity Matters:
For international students, early-career researchers, and postdocs in applied mathematics, AI, or computational science, iNum 2025 is more than just a funding call. It’s a chance to:
- Build cross-border collaborations between Europe and Asia.
- Gain access to joint publications and international conferences.
- Strengthen your academic profile with high-impact research experience.
- Join a global network of experts working at the frontier of numerical mathematics and AI.
This program is particularly valuable for those seeking co-supervised PhD opportunities or aiming for long-term research careers in interdisciplinary fields.
Apply: https://www.dfg.de/en/news/news-topics/announcements-proposals/2025/ifr-25-61
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Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the iNum 2025 program?
iNum 2025 is a joint initiative by the NSFC (China) and DFG (Germany) that funds collaborative research projects combining numerical methods with machine learning.
Who can apply for iNum 2025 funding?
German researchers must follow DFG’s Research Grants (Sachbeihilfe) rules.
Chinese researchers must meet NSFC eligibility requirements.
Non-university researchers in Germany must partner with a universityWhat kind of projects are supported?
Projects that explore learning-based numerics and numerically efficient learning methods, including: model reduction, scalable algorithms, adaptive solvers, optimization, and computational performance improvements.
