2026 MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships: €399M Funding & Application Guide
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 work and career growth. Applications opened on April 9, 2026, and close on September 9, 2026.
Key Details
These fellowships fund advanced training and mobility for researchers in all fields, including Euratom research. The total budget covers researchers from any country. Projects last up to 24 months for European Fellowships. Global Fellowships include 12 to 24 months abroad plus a 12-month return to Europe. Eligible applicants have a PhD and up to eight years of research experience after it.
About the MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships
MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships rank among Europe’s top research funds. They focus on international, cross-discipline, and industry-linked mobility. Researchers pair with top institutions for mentorship and collaboration. This setup helps build skills and networks. Over 30 years, the MSCA program has aided more than 150,000 researchers and linked to 23 Nobel winners.
Types of Fellowships
European Postdoctoral Fellowships
These suit researchers of any nationality. Hosts must be in EU Member States or Horizon Europe associated countries. The stay lasts up to 24 months. Fellows work on projects that match their goals and host needs.
Global Postdoctoral Fellowships
Open to EU nationals or long-term residents. Research happens in a non-EU country for 12 to 24 months. A required 12-month return phase follows in Europe. This builds global ties while keeping European links.
Optional Non-Academic Placement
Fellows can add a six-month stay in a non-academic group, like a company, NGO, or public body in Europe. This connects research to practical uses and boosts job skills.
Eligibility Criteria
You need a PhD by application time. Research experience counts up to eight years post-PhD, with some breaks allowed. Apply with a host organization and supervisor. Hosts can be universities, companies, institutes, governments, NGOs, hospitals, or museums in eligible areas. For Global Fellowships, secure a third-country host too.
Who Should Apply
Researchers worldwide qualify, at any career stage within limits. This includes those restarting careers, displaced by conflict, or returning to Europe. High-potential applicants seeking fresh starts fit well.
ERA Fellowships for Widening Countries
European Fellowship applicants in “widening countries” can join ERA Fellowships. About 40 extra spots go to strong candidates skipped due to funds. Check eligible host countries on the official site.
Application Timeline
The call opened April 9, 2026. Submit by September 9, 2026. Results come in February 2027. Grant agreements sign from February to May 2027. Projects start in May 2027.
Reasons to Apply
Join world-class labs and gain global experience. Build networks for academic or industry jobs. Increase your research’s reach and profile. Mark the 30th anniversary of MSCA success.
How to Apply
Work with your host and supervisor on the proposal. Show strong research quality, clear impact, and solid training plans. Use the six-step guide on the MSCA site. Visit the call page and funding portal for forms and details. Start early to meet the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the application deadline for the 2026 MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships?
Applications opened on April 9, 2026, and close on September 9, 2026.
Who is eligible to apply for these fellowships?
You need a PhD by the application time and up to eight years of research experience afterward, with some breaks allowed.
What are the two main types of MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships?
There are European Fellowships for up to 24 months in EU countries and Global Fellowships with 12-24 months abroad plus a 12-month return to Europe.
How much funding is available for the 2026 call?
The total budget is €399.05 million to support about 1,600 projects.