The 2026 Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Postdoctoral Fellowships opened for applications on April 9, 2026. This program offers €399.05 million in funding to support about 1,600 projects for PhD holders worldwide. It provides advanced training, international mobility, and career growth in all research fields.
Key Details at a Glance
Here are the main facts about the MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships 2026:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Program | MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships 2026 |
| Funding | €399.05 million |
| Deadline | September 9, 2026 |
| Launch Date | April 9, 2026 |
| Projects Funded | ~1,600 expected |
| Duration | European: Up to 24 months; Global: 12-24 months + 12-month return in Europe |
| Fields | All disciplines (including Euratom research) |
| Eligibility | PhD holders with up to 8 years of research experience |
About the MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships
These fellowships rank among Europe’s top research funding programs. They help researchers gain new skills, build networks, and advance their careers. The focus is on international, interdisciplinary, and inter-sectoral mobility. Fellows join leading institutions around the world and receive strong mentorship and collaboration.
Types of Fellowships
The program offers two main types.
European Postdoctoral Fellowships
These are open to researchers of any nationality. The host must be in an EU Member State or a Horizon Europe associated country. The fellowship lasts up to 24 months. It supports work in top research settings within Europe.
Global Postdoctoral Fellowships
These target EU nationals or long-term residents. Research happens in a third country for 12 to 24 months. A mandatory 12-month return phase follows in Europe. This setup builds global experience with a European base.
Non-Academic Placement Option
Fellows can add a 6-month placement in a non-academic organization. Examples include industry, NGOs, or public sector groups in Europe. This step connects research to practical applications and broadens career options.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, you must hold a PhD by the application time. Research experience after your PhD cannot exceed 8 years. You apply with a host organization and supervisor. Hosts can be universities, research institutes, companies, SMEs, government bodies, NGOs, hospitals, museums, or others in eligible countries. For Global Fellowships, secure a host in a third country too. Some rules differ for Global Fellowships and Euratom research.
Who Should Apply?
The program welcomes researchers from any country and career stage, up to 8 years post-PhD. It suits those restarting careers, displaced by conflict, or reintegrating into Europe. High-potential researchers seeking a boost also fit well.
ERA Fellowships for Widening Countries
European Fellowship applicants hosted in “widening countries” can join ERA Fellowships. This adds about 40 extra spots for strong candidates who miss regular funding due to budgets. Check the list of eligible host countries.
Indicative Timeline
- April 9, 2026: Call opens
- September 9, 2026: Deadline
- February 2027: Results announced (to be confirmed)
- February-May 2027: Grant agreements signed
- May 2027: Projects start
Why Apply for MSCA Fellowships?
You gain access to world-class research environments. International experience strengthens your profile. It boosts academic and non-academic careers. Global networks form, and your research gains more impact and visibility.
30 Years of MSCA Excellence
2026 celebrates 30 years of the MSCA program since 1996. It has supported over 150,000 researchers and linked to 23 Nobel Prize winners. The program has boosted global research ties and mobility.
How to Apply
Work with your host institution and supervisor to build a joint proposal. Start early. Show strong research quality, clear impact, and solid training plans. Visit the official call page for details and preparation steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the deadline for 2026 MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships?
The application deadline is September 9, 2026. Start preparing early with your host institution.
Who can apply for these fellowships?
PhD holders with up to 8 years of research experience after their PhD are eligible. You need a host organization and supervisor.
What types of fellowships are available?
There are European Fellowships for work in Europe and Global Fellowships with time abroad plus a return to Europe. Both last up to 24 months.
How much funding does the program offer?
It provides €399.05 million to support about 1,600 projects worldwide. Funding covers training, mobility, and career growth.
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