MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships 2026

Overview

Funding for postdoctoral researchers of any nationality to conduct research and innovation projects in Europe or for European nationals/residents to work in non-associated third countries, with a mandatory return phase. Supports skill development, international mobility, and career advancement in academia and beyond.

Who Can Apply

Postdoctoral researchers of any nationality (for European Fellowships) or European nationals/long-term residents (for Global Fellowships). Applications must be submitted jointly with a host organization in the academic or non-academic sector based in an eligible country.

Funding Details

• European Postdoctoral Fellowships: Duration of 12–24 months.
• Global Postdoctoral Fellowships: Outgoing phase of 12–24 months in a non-associated third country, followed by a mandatory 12-month return phase in an EU Member State or Horizon Europe Associated Country.
• Additional Placement: Up to 6 months in a non-academic sector organization (EU/Associated Country) at the end of the project.
• Funding Rate: 100% of eligible costs (living allowance, mobility allowance, research costs, and overheads).
• Total Budget: Indicative annual contribution of EUR 1 million for Euratom-related research.

What Is Funded

• International mobility for postdoctoral researchers.
• Research and innovation projects across all disciplines.
• Training in transferable skills (e.g., digital tools, Open Science, knowledge valorization).
• Optional secondments (up to 50% of the fellowship duration) and non-academic placements (up to 6 months).
• Career development plans, including publications, conferences, and citizen engagement.

Technology / Maturity Requirements

Targeted Technology Readiness Levels (TRL): 4–6.

Key Dates

• Open Date: 2026-04-08
• Deadline: 2026-09-08

Application Process (High-Level)

Single-stage submission via the Funding & Tenders Portal. Proposals must include a joint application by the researcher and host organization, detailing the research project, training plan, and career development objectives.

Post-Award Obligations

• Submission of a Career Development Plan as a project deliverable.
• Regular reporting on research progress, training activities, and knowledge transfer.
• Dissemination of results, including Open Science practices and public engagement.

Geographic Scope & Language

• Eligible Countries: EU Member States, Horizon Europe Associated Countries (Norway, Iceland, UK, Switzerland), and non-associated third countries for outgoing phases.
• Application Language: English.

Notes

• Secondments and non-academic placements must align with project objectives and add value to the fellowship.
• Proposals in Euratom-related research areas have specific eligibility conditions.
• ERA Fellowships provide additional support for researchers working in "widening countries" to promote balanced brain circulation.