The 2026 Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Postdoctoral Fellowships offer a major chance for researchers. With €399.05 million in funding, these fellowships support about 1,600 projects. They help PhD holders gain new skills through international moves and career growth in any field.
Key Details
The MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships 2026 opened on April 9, 2026. The deadline to apply is September 9, 2026. Projects last up to 24 months for European Fellowships. Global Fellowships run 12 to 24 months abroad, plus a 12-month return to Europe. All research fields qualify, including Euratom work. You need a PhD and no more than eight years of research experience after it.
What Are MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships?
These fellowships rank among Europe’s top research funds. They let researchers build skills, networks, and careers. You move to new places, work across fields, and partner with different sectors. Fellows join top institutions worldwide. They get strong guidance from mentors and collaborators.
Types of Fellowships
European Postdoctoral Fellowships
These suit researchers of any nationality. You work at a host in an EU Member State or Horizon Europe associated country. The stay lasts up to 24 months. This option keeps you in Europe for hands-on training.
Global Postdoctoral Fellowships
EU nationals or long-term residents apply here. You do research in a third country for 12 to 24 months. Then you return to Europe for 12 months. This builds experience outside Europe before coming back.
Extra Placement Option
Fellows can add a six-month stay in a non-academic group. Think industry, NGOs, or public offices in Europe. This links your research to real-world uses.
Who Meets the Eligibility Rules?
You must have your PhD by the application date. Count no more than eight years of research after your PhD. Some breaks, like career pauses, do not count against you. Work with a host group and supervisor on your proposal. Hosts can be universities, research centers, companies, governments, NGOs, hospitals, or museums. For Global Fellowships, line up a third-country host too.
Best Fits for Applicants
Researchers from any nation can apply. The program welcomes those restarting careers, conflict-displaced people, or those returning to Europe. Early-career researchers with strong potential stand out.
Special ERA Fellowships
If you apply for a European Fellowship in a “widening country,” check ERA Fellowships. They offer about 40 extra spots for top applicants who miss regular funding. See the list of eligible host countries on the official site.
Application Timeline
- April 9, 2026: Call opens.
- September 9, 2026: Deadline.
- February 2027: Results out (expected).
- February to May 2027: Sign grants.
- May 2027: Projects start.
Reasons to Pursue These Fellowships
Join world-class labs and teams. Get global experience that boosts your resume. Build networks for academic or industry jobs. Raise your research profile. In 2026, MSCA celebrates 30 years. It has aided over 150,000 researchers and linked to 23 Nobel winners.
Steps to Apply
Team up with your host and supervisor early. Show research quality, clear benefits, and solid training plans. Check the six-step guide on the MSCA site. Visit the official call page for details. This funding opens doors for your next research step.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the application deadline for the 2026 MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships?
The deadline to apply is September 9, 2026. The call opened on April 9, 2026.
Who is eligible for these fellowships?
You need a PhD by the application date and no more than eight years of research experience afterward. Career breaks do not count against your time.
What are the two main types of fellowships?
European Fellowships let you work in Europe for up to 24 months. Global Fellowships include 12-24 months abroad plus 12 months back in Europe.
When do projects start and when are results announced?
Results are expected in February 2027, grants are signed from February to May 2027, and projects start in May 2027.
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