The European Commission has launched its 2026 call for the prestigious Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Postdoctoral Fellowships, committing nearly €400 million to
support early-career researchers. With a total budget of €399.05 million, the initiative aims to help PhD holders advance their careers through international research, cross-sector collaboration, and cutting-edge innovation.
Applications are now open and will run until 9 September 2026.
A flagship programme for research careers
The MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships are among the European Union’s most competitive and respected funding schemes. They enable researchers to work abroad, gain new skills, and collaborate with leading scientific teams across disciplines—from life sciences to engineering and social sciences.
Since its launch in 1996, the programme has supported over 150,000 researchers, including 23 Nobel Prize winners. Today, it stands as a cornerstone of Europe’s strategy to strengthen its research and innovation ecosystem.
Part of the broader Horizon Europe framework (2021–2027), the 2026 MSCA budget exceeds €1.25 billion, reflecting the EU’s continued investment in scientific excellence and global talent attraction.
What are MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships?
MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships are designed for researchers who already hold a PhD and want to:
- Conduct research in another country (within or beyond Europe)
- Expand their expertise across disciplines or sectors
- Build international networks and career opportunities
- Gain transferable skills such as leadership, communication, and entrepreneurship
Fellowships typically last between 1 and 2 years and can take place in universities, research institutions, companies, or other organisations. A key feature is their emphasis on mobility—applicants must move to a different country to carry out their project.
EU leadership underscores importance of research
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen highlighted the programme’s long-term impact:
“Europe's future is built on knowledge, discovery and talent. For 30 years, the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions have empowered researchers to push the boundaries of science and to turn ideas into progress for society.”
Her message to global researchers was clear: Europe remains open and competitive as a hub for innovation and scientific careers.
Celebrating 30 years of impact
In 2026, the MSCA programme marks its 30th anniversary under the theme 30 years of curiosity that changes the world. The celebrations will showcase success stories, milestones, and contributions from the global MSCA community—including voices like Hélène Langevin-Joliot.
More funding opportunities ahead
Beyond the postdoctoral fellowships, the Commission is rolling out several additional MSCA calls in 2026:
- Doctoral Networks (€593 million): Training and recruiting PhD candidates across academia and industry
- Choose Europe for Science (€51 million): Tackling brain drain by improving research careers and working conditions
- Staff Exchanges (€97.9 million): Supporting global collaboration and knowledge sharing
- COFUND (€105.5 million): Helping organisations develop their own fellowship programmes
Strengthening Europe’s research future
From its early days as a fellowship scheme to its current status as a global benchmark, the MSCA programme continues to shape research careers and foster international cooperation. By investing in mobility, skills, and collaboration, the European Commission aims to reinforce Europe’s position as a leading destination for scientific talent.
For researchers worldwide, the message is simple: Europe is investing—and the door is open.