The MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships 2026 provide a €399 million opportunity for early-career researchers to advance their careers through international mobility and interdisciplinary research. This flagship European Commission program supports PhD holders in conducting independent projects at top host institutions across Europe and globally, fostering collaboration and skill development.
The Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) are a key part of the European Union’s research and innovation framework, managed by the European Commission. They aim to enhance researchers’ creative and innovative potential through cross-border mobility and exposure to diverse sectors, strengthening Europe’s research landscape.
MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships Benefits
- Competitive monthly salary aligned with EU standards.
- Mobility allowance for relocation.
- Family allowance (where applicable).
- Research, training, and networking costs.
- Optional 6-month placement in a non-academic organisation (industry, policy, etc.).
MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships Eligibility Criteria
- Hold a PhD.
- Have no more than 8 years of postdoctoral research experience.
- Apply jointly with a host institution (university, research institute, company, NGO, public body, etc.) in an EU Member State or Horizon Europe associated country.
- For Global Fellowships, applicants must be EU/associated country nationals or long-term residents.
- Global eligibility (any nationality).
How are Candidates Selected?
- Based on research excellence, publication record, and strength of the proposed project.
- Alignment with host institution and potential for interdisciplinary or inter-sectoral impact.
- Consideration for reintegration, career restart, or displacement due to conflict.
How to Apply for MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships
- Identify and secure a host institution in Europe (or a third country for Global Fellowships).
- Develop a research proposal jointly with your supervisor.
- Submit application via the European Commission Funding & Tenders Portal.
- Deadline: 9 September 2026.
- Results expected February 2027; projects start May 2027.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships 2026. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply, based on the official call information.
What is the application deadline for the MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships 2026?
The application deadline is 9 September 2026. Applications must be submitted via the European Commission Funding & Tenders Portal by this date.
Who is eligible to apply for the MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships?
Applicants must hold a PhD and have no more than 8 years of postdoctoral research experience. They must apply jointly with a host institution in an EU Member State or Horizon Europe associated country. For Global Fellowships, applicants must be EU/associated country nationals or long-term residents.
What are the benefits of the MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowship?
The fellowship provides a competitive monthly salary, mobility allowance, family allowance (where applicable), and coverage for research, training, and networking costs. It also includes an optional 6-month placement in a non-academic organisation.
What types of fellowships are available under MSCA?
There are two types: European Fellowships for research in EU or associated countries (up to 24 months) and Global Fellowships for research in a third country (12–24 months) followed by a 12-month return phase in Europe.
How many fellowships are awarded?
Approximately 1,600 fellowships are expected to be awarded in 2026 from the €399.05 million budget.
What fields of study are eligible?
All scientific disciplines are eligible, including Euratom research. Applicants design their own research projects.
How are candidates selected?
Selection is based on research excellence, publication record, strength of the proposed project, alignment with the host institution, and potential for interdisciplinary or inter-sectoral impact. Consideration is also given for reintegration, career restart, or displacement due to conflict.
When do successful projects start?
Results are expected in February 2027, and projects start in May 2027.
What is the total budget for the 2026 call?
The total budget is €399.05 million for the 2026 MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships call.
Where can I find the official application webpage?
The official application details and webpage are available at the European Commission’s Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions website, as linked in the content.
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