YBB - Applications are now open for the ETH Zurich Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026 in Switzerland, a prestigious fully funded opportunity for outstanding early-career researchers worldwide. This two-year fellowship is designed to support talented postdoctoral scholars who have already demonstrated strong scientific excellence and are ready to advance their independent research careers.
Moreover, ETH Zurich is globally recognized as one of the leading institutions in science, engineering, and technology. Therefore, this fellowship offers not only financial support but also access to world-class laboratories, advanced research facilities, and an international academic environment.
According to ETH Zurich, the fellowship covers the fellow’s full salary based on ETH standards and provides an additional CHF 12,000 per year for research-related expenses, including travel and mobility support.
The ETH Fellows Program aims to foster academic independence among exceptional young researchers. In addition, selected fellows will conduct their own proposed research project under the mentorship of an ETH Zurich professor.
Importantly, applicants must secure the support of an ETH Zurich professor before applying, as each professor may endorse only one candidate per evaluation round.
Furthermore, the program strongly prioritizes original and independent research ideas. Applicants are encouraged to design their own project proposals that align with the expertise of the mentor and the host research group.
Successful fellows will receive excellent financial and academic support, including:
Notably, ETH Zurich states that many previous fellows advanced to professorship positions within a few years after completing the fellowship.
To apply for the ETH Zurich Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Applicants need to prepare the following documents:
To apply for the ETH Zurich Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026, follow these steps:
First, contact a suitable ETH Zurich professor whose research area matches your project idea.
Next, work closely with the mentor to prepare your research proposal and required documents.
After that, submit the application through ETH Zurich’s eResearch grant application system.
Then, ensure that your host professor uploads the required supporting documents before the deadline.
Finally, ask your referees to send their recommendation letters directly to the Grants Office at least 10 days before submission.
The next confirmed deadline is:
1 September 2026 (17:00 Swiss local time)
Official Link / Apply Here:
https://grantsoffice.ethz.ch/funding-opportunities/internal/eth-fellowships.html
In conclusion, the ETH Zurich Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026 is one of the most prestigious fully funded opportunities for early-career researchers aiming to build a strong academic future. With full salary support, an annual research allowance, and access to one of the world’s top universities, this fellowship can significantly strengthen your research career.
Therefore, if you are ready to pursue independent research in a globally competitive environment, this is an opportunity you should not miss.