funding: Salary/stipend + relocation allowance (varies by host country)
location: EMBC Member States, Chile, India, Singapore, Taiwan
host: EMBO (European Molecular Biology Organization)
duration: 1-2 years (up to 3 years part-time)
source-url: https://www.embo.org/funding/fellowships-grants-and-career-support/postdoctoral-fellowships/
apply-url: https://my.embo.org/
The EMBO Postdoctoral Fellowships, run by the European Molecular Biology Organization, support postdoctoral researchers who wish to advance their research career through international mobility. With over 1,800 alumni, the programme has a significant track record. The fellowships are awarded for one to two years, depending on the proposal.
Overview
The EMBO Postdoctoral Fellowships programme is designed to support young researchers in the life sciences who are looking to gain international experience and advance their research career.
- Host countries include EMBC Member States, Chile, India, Singapore, and Taiwan.
- Applications can be submitted throughout the year but are evaluated in two cycles.
- Fellowships can be held for a minimum of one year and a maximum of two years.
- The programme includes support for fellows with children, such as childcare costs up to EUR 2,500 per year per child.
- Awardees can also attend an EMBO Laboratory Leadership course and join the global network of EMBO Fellows.
Eligibility
Applicants must hold a doctorate or equivalent at the start of the fellowship, with those who obtained their PhD in the two years prior to the application date being eligible.
- Applicants must have at least one first-author publication accepted in or published in an international peer-reviewed journal at the time of application.
- Applications must involve movement between countries, and applicants cannot return to their country of PhD origin or work with their PhD supervisor.
Funding & Benefits
- Salary or stipend for 1-2 years.
- Relocation allowance.
- Support for fellows with children, including childcare costs up to EUR 2,500 per year per child.
- Access to EMBO Laboratory Leadership course.
- Membership in the global network of EMBO Fellows.
How to Apply
Applications for the EMBO Postdoctoral Fellowships are accepted throughout the year but are evaluated in cycles, with the next deadline being 22 January 2027, 14:00 CET for the Autumn 2027 selection round. Effective from this round onward, re-applications will no longer be permitted -- researchers may submit only one EMBO Fellowship Proposal.
- Applications must be submitted via the online application system.
- Two references and receiving institute acceptance are required as part of the application.
- Only fully completed applications are considered for evaluation.
Why This Matters
The EMBO Postdoctoral Fellowships offer a competitive opportunity for early-career researchers to gain international experience, with a strong track record of supporting over 1,800 alumni. The programme's flexibility, with fellowships lasting from one to two years, allows researchers to tailor their experience to their needs and goals.
Given the prestigious nature of EMBO and the comprehensive support provided to fellows, including a stipend, relocation allowance, and childcare support, this fellowship is highly attractive for postdoctoral researchers in the life sciences looking to elevate their careers through international collaboration and experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply more than once to the EMBO Postdoctoral Fellowship?
For applications submitted before the Autumn 2027 selection round (22 January 2027, 14:00 CET), re-applications were permitted. Effective from the Autumn 2027 round onward, re-applications will no longer be allowed -- researchers may submit only one EMBO Fellowship Proposal.
What is the duration of the EMBO Postdoctoral Fellowship?
The fellowship can last for a minimum of one year and a maximum of two years, depending on the proposal.
Can I apply if I have not yet obtained my PhD?
No, applicants must hold a doctorate or equivalent at the start of the fellowship.
Are there any restrictions on where I can conduct my research?
Yes, applications must involve movement between countries, and you cannot return to the country where you obtained your PhD or work with your PhD supervisor.
What kind of support is available for fellows with children?
Fellows with children under six can claim incurred childcare costs up to EUR 2,500 per fellowship year per child.
How are applications evaluated?
Applications are evaluated in cycles throughout the year, with the next deadline being 22 January 2027, 14:00 CET for the Autumn 2027 selection round.
What benefits are included in the EMBO Postdoctoral Fellowship?
The fellowship includes a salary or stipend, relocation allowance, support for childcare costs, access to an EMBO Laboratory Leadership course, and membership in the global network of EMBO Fellows.