ECTRIMS Research Fellowship Program 2026 in Switzerland

The ECTRIMS Research Fellowship Program 2026 offers an exceptional pathway for aspiring neuroscientists seeking to advance their careers through cutting-edge multiple sclerosis research in Europe. This prestigious fellowship opportunity, administered by the European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis (ECTRIMS), specifically targets postdoctoral researchers who are passionate about contributing to groundbreaking basic, clinical, or applied research in the field of multiple sclerosis. The program’s primary mission centers on fostering knowledge exchange and expanding the global community of dedicated research scientists committed to tackling the complex challenges surrounding multiple sclerosis treatment and understanding.

The ECTRIMS Research Fellowship Program provides fellows with comprehensive support for conducting innovative research projects over one to two years at leading European research laboratories or clinical institutions. Successful applicants will collaborate closely with experienced mentors while developing and executing well-defined research proposals that address critical aspects of multiple sclerosis. Beyond the substantial annual stipend and transportation coverage, fellows gain invaluable exposure through mandatory participation in annual ECTRIMS congresses, where they present their funded research findings to the international scientific community. The program’s flexible structure allows fellows to dedicate up to 10% of their time to teaching or clinical activities, creating a well-rounded professional development experience that positions participants as future leaders in multiple sclerosis research and treatment innovation.

Fellowship Summary

• Country: Switzerland
• Host: ECTRIMS (European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis)
• Study Level: Postdoctoral
• Duration: 1-2 years
• Benefits: Partially Funded
• Deadline:  1 December 2025

Benefits

• The ECTRIMS postdoc fellowship offers each fellow an annual stipend of 55,000 EUR.
• It will also cover economy transportation expenses from the fellow’s home location to the training city and back. Reimbursement for transportation costs will be given directly to the fellow upon the submission of receipts to ECTRIMS.
• All fellows receive training and mentorship by professionals.
• In addition, fellows have the opportunity to work in a European laboratory or clinic. Hence, promoting international collaboration and exposure to diverse research environments.
• The fellowship program encourages fellows to present their research findings at annual ECTRIMS congresses. Thus, providing a platform to showcase their work.
• All fellows will get a chance to engage with the global multiple sclerosis (MS) research community.
• Through the ECTRIMS Research Training Fellowship Programme, fellows will get to experience cultural diversity through exposure to different cultures within Europe and the chance to study in Switzerland.

Eligibility Criteria

• The ECTRIMS Research Fellowship Program 2026 is open to scientists and physicians of any nationality holding an MD, PhD, ScD, or equivalent qualification.
• Citizens from any country are eligible to apply. However, the research training itself must be conducted in a European laboratory or clinic.
• Candidates must have an interest in research training revolving around multiple sclerosis (MS).
• Similarly, research topics must be directly related to MS, spanning its various specialties and fields.
• Candidates must have obtained their advanced degree(s) before starting this European fellowship.
• Moreover, at the time of application, fellows should not have more than 12 months of previous postdoctoral training at the same host institution or under the same mentor.
• For senior candidates, the overall postdoctoral experience should not exceed five years beyond their final degree (PhD, MD, ScD, or equivalent).
• Successful applicants, in general, should be under 40 years of age at the time of application. However, there may be exceptions under special circumstances.
• Language proficiency is an essential requirement of the ECTRIMS Research Training Fellowship Programme. Both candidates and mentors must confirm that there will be no language barriers hindering the training experience.
• European citizens applying for the ECTRIMS fellowship 2025 should select a laboratory or clinic situated in a European country different from their own citizenship.

Required Documents for ECTRIMS Research Fellowship Program 2026

The ECTRIMS Research Fellowship Program 2026 requires applicants to submit a comprehensive application package that demonstrates their research capabilities and career objectives. Prospective fellows must prepare several essential documents to be considered for this prestigious postdoctoral opportunity in multiple sclerosis research.

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) and bibliography
• Career Plan (maximum 1 page)
• Abstract/Research project summary (no more than 250 words)
• Research project description (maximum 6 pages)
• Proof of language proficiency (local language of the training venue)

How to Apply?

• Start Your Application
  Click the ‘Apply Now’ button below to begin your application. This will take you to the official ECTRIMS website where you can access the online application form.
• Prepare Your Submission
  The ECTRIMS Research Fellowship Program 2026 is awarded through a competitive review process managed by the ECTRIMS Fellowship Committee. To give yourself the best chance:
  • Ensure your application highlights your qualifications and educational background
  • Clearly outline your career objectives
  • Demonstrate the strength of your chosen mentor and host institution
• Submit Required Documents
  Upload all necessary documents, making sure they meet the specified format and page limits. Required materials typically include:
  • Your CV
  • Research proposal
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Host institution confirmation
• Review and Finalize
  Double-check your application before submitting to ensure all information is complete and accurate.
• Meet the Deadline
  All applications must be submitted before the specified deadline. Late submissions will not be considered.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

The ECTRIMS Research Fellowship Program 2026 supports MS researchers through funded international exchanges. Eligibility requires a doctoral degree, active MS research, and host institution confirmation in Europe/Canada. The competitive selection evaluates scientific merit through a rigorous peer-review process.