Ikerbasque Research Fellows 2026 is a prestigious opportunity for early-career researchers who aim to build a long-term academic career in Europe. This highly competitive program offers fully funded postdoctoral fellowships to outstanding researchers from around the world who are ready to lead independent research and grow as future principal investigators. Hosted by Ikerbasque, the Basque Foundation for Science, the fellowship is designed for scholars seeking research freedom, career stability, and a strong academic environment in Spain.
Through the Ikerbasque Research Fellows 2026 program, selected fellows will work at leading research institutions while developing leadership skills and advancing their research profiles. The fellowship supports long-term career progression and provides a clear pathway toward a permanent academic position. Applications from women researchers are strongly encouraged, and eligibility periods may be extended in special cases such as maternity, ensuring a fair and inclusive selection process.
Benefits
The Ikerbasque Research Fellows program is a fully funded postdoctoral fellowship, offering comprehensive support:
- Competitive salary for 5 years (46,195 € per year + other benefits)
- Full employment contract in Spain
- Research funding support through host institutions
- Access to European and international grants
- Social security and employment benefits
- Long-term career evaluation for permanent position
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Ikerbasque Research Fellows 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- PhD completed between 1 January 2015 and 31 December 2023
- Open to all nationalities
- Strong postdoctoral research profile with international potential
- Acceptance letter from a Basque host institution
- Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research
Notes: - Applications from women researchers are strongly encouraged
- The eligibility period may be extended for maternity or other justified career breaks
Available Research Fields
Ikerbasque Research Fellowships are open to all academic disciplines, including but not limited to:
- Natural Sciences
- Engineering and Technology
- Life Sciences and Medicine
- Environmental and Climate Sciences
- Mathematics and Computer Science
- Social Sciences and Economics
- Humanities and Arts
How to Apply?
- Carefully review the fellowship call to confirm you meet the eligibility requirements and understand the research expectations.
- Prepare all required documents in advance, including your CV, research proposal, academic records, and supporting materials.
- Identify a suitable host institution in the Basque Country that matches your research profile and secure their agreement to host you.
- Complete the online application form with accurate personal, academic, and professional information.
- Upload all required documents in the correct format and ensure everything is complete and clearly presented.
- Review your full application carefully to avoid errors or missing information.
- Submit the application before the deadline, as late or incomplete submissions are not accepted.
- Monitor your email for updates, as shortlisted candidates may be contacted for interviews or additional evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Ikerbasque Research Fellows 2026 offers 15 five-year postdoctoral positions funded by the Basque Government, European Commission, and host institutions. Applicants must have a PhD from 2015–2023, secure a host acceptance letter, and apply by 10 March 2026.
What is the Ikerbasque Research Fellows 2026 programme?
The Ikerbasque Research Fellows 2026 programme offers 15 long-term postdoctoral fellowships for promising young researchers. These five-year positions support independent research and leadership development, and aim to prepare fellows for future principal investigator roles.
How long is the fellowship under Ikerbasque Research Fellows 2026?
The Ikerbasque Research Fellows 2026 fellowship lasts for five years. During this period, selected researchers get long-term support to build their research projects and acquire skills needed for independent research leadership.
How many positions are available in the Ikerbasque Research Fellows 2026 call?
There are 15 postdoctoral fellowship positions available in the Ikerbasque Research Fellows 2026 call. These slots are competitive and targeted at talented early-career researchers ready to lead independent research.
Who funds the Ikerbasque Research Fellows 2026 fellowships?
The Ikerbasque Research Fellows 2026 awards are financed by the Basque Government, the European Commission, and the host institution where the researcher will conduct their research.
What are the eligibility requirements for Ikerbasque Research Fellows 2026?
To be eligible for Ikerbasque Research Fellows 2026, applicants must have completed their PhD between 1 January 2015 and 31 December 2023 and must secure an acceptance letter from a host institution in the Basque Country.
Can international researchers apply to the Ikerbasque Research Fellows 2026?
Yes, researchers of all nationalities can apply for the Ikerbasque Research Fellows 2026 programme, as long as they meet the PhD completion and host institution acceptance requirements.
Are women researchers encouraged to apply for Ikerbasque Research Fellows 2026?
Applications from women researchers are especially welcomed in the Ikerbasque Research Fellows 2026 call, and the eligibility period may be extended under special circumstances such as maternity.
Is a host institution acceptance letter required for Ikerbasque Research Fellows 2026?
Yes, a formal acceptance letter from the host institution where the research will be carried out is mandatory for the Ikerbasque Research Fellows 2026 application.
Does the fellowship offer a path to a permanent position?
The Ikerbasque Research Fellows 2026 programme offers a pathway toward longer-term career prospects, and fellows can be evaluated for permanent positions in their fifth year.
Where is the research conducted?
The Ikerbasque Research Fellows 2026 research is carried out at accredited host institutions located in the Basque Country, Spain. Fellows join universities or research centers that provide infrastructure, integration, and support while they lead independent projects aligned with their expertise.
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