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 worldwide. They help PhD holders gain new skills through international work and training in any field.
Key Details
These fellowships launched on April 9, 2026. The deadline to apply is September 9, 2026. European Fellowships last up to 24 months. Global Fellowships run 12 to 24 months abroad, plus a 12-month return to Europe. All disciplines qualify, including nuclear research under Euratom. You need a PhD and no more than eight years of research experience after it.
What Are MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships?
This program is one of Europe’s top funding options for researchers. It focuses on building skills, networks, and careers. Fellows move between countries, fields, and sectors like academia or industry. They partner with top institutions and get strong guidance from mentors. The program marks its 30th year in 2026, having helped over 150,000 researchers and linked to 23 Nobel winners.
Types of Fellowships
European Postdoctoral Fellowships
These suit researchers of any nationality. You work at a host in an EU country or a Horizon Europe partner nation. The stay lasts up to two years. This option builds experience in a leading European research setting.
Global Postdoctoral Fellowships
Open to EU citizens or long-term residents. You spend 12 to 24 months in a non-EU country, then return to Europe for 12 months. You need hosts in both places. This path creates worldwide ties and fresh perspectives.
Extra Options
Fellows can add a six-month placement in a non-academic group, such as a company, NGO, or public body in Europe. This links research to practical use. For European Fellowships in “widening countries,” ERA Fellowships offer about 40 more spots. These go to strong applicants who miss regular funding.
Who Can Apply?
You must have a PhD by the deadline. Limit research experience to eight years post-PhD, with some breaks allowed. Work with a host organization and supervisor on your application. Hosts can be universities, companies, institutes, governments, NGOs, or others in eligible areas. Global applicants also need a third-country host.
The program welcomes researchers from anywhere. It supports career restarts, those displaced by conflict, or high-potential people returning to Europe.
Application Timeline
- April 9, 2026: Call opens.
- September 9, 2026: Deadline.
- February 2027: Results (expected).
- February to May 2027: Sign grants.
- May 2027: Projects start.
Why Choose These Fellowships?
You join world-class labs and gain global experience. They boost your career in academia or beyond. Build lasting networks and raise your work’s profile. The funding covers living costs, travel, and research needs.
How to Prepare and Apply
Team up early with your host and supervisor. Show strong research quality, clear benefits, and solid training plans. Check official guides for the six steps to a good application. Visit the call page for details and submit through the funding portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the application deadline for the 2026 MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships?
The deadline is September 9, 2026. Make sure to submit your application through the funding portal by then.
Who can apply for these fellowships?
You need a PhD by the deadline and no more than eight years of research experience after it. Researchers from any country can apply if they meet the rules.
What are the two main types of fellowships?
European Fellowships last up to 24 months in an EU country or partner nation. Global Fellowships include 12-24 months abroad plus 12 months back in Europe.
When does the call open and when do projects start?
The call opens on April 9, 2026. Projects are expected to start in May 2027 after results in February 2027.