Deadline: 31-Mar-2026
he Post-Doctoral Study Grants provide up to €45,000 per year for researchers to advance their careers through focused post-doctoral projects. Funding supports researchers in fields such as Ethology, Paleontology, Archaeology, Anthropology, Psychology, Epistemology, Logic, and Neuroscience, either in France or abroad.
What Are the Post-Doctoral Study Grants?
The Post-Doctoral Study Grants offer financial support to early-career researchers pursuing specialized post-doctoral projects. The grants cover expenses related to hosting, living, and health insurance, enabling recipients to focus on research and career development. Funding is provided for either 12 months (non-renewable) or 24 months, depending on the project scope.
Eligible Disciplines
Funding is available for post-doctoral research in:
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Ethology
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Paleontology
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Archaeology
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Anthropology
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Psychology
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Epistemology
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Logic
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Sciences of the Nervous System
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants include:
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French or foreign researchers holding a foreign PhD wishing to conduct research in a laboratory in France
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French or foreign researchers holding a French PhD wishing to conduct research in a laboratory abroad (excluding mobility to countries where the doctoral degree was obtained under a joint supervision/co-tutelle agreement)
Additional Eligibility Criteria
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Applicants must be starting their first post-doctoral fellowship with this financial support.
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If already at the host laboratory, applicants must have been there no more than three months as of September 1st, 2026.
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Applicants must be 35 years old or younger on the closing date.
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PhD must be obtained within the last two years or viva thesis completed by December 31st of the application year (PhD must be obtained before the fellowship starts).
Funding Details
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Maximum annual grant: €45,000
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Covers hosting, stay, and health insurance expenses
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Duration: 12 months (non-renewable) or 24 months
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For host laboratories in France, recipients employed under a fixed-term contract must ensure a co-financing agreement is signed to reach the gross salary level.
Why It Matters
These grants provide early-career researchers with:
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Financial support to focus on post-doctoral research projects
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Opportunities to gain international experience in a host laboratory
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Exposure to advanced research networks and collaborations
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Support for career advancement in specialized scientific disciplines
How to Apply
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Check that you meet all academic, age, and PhD completion criteria and verify that your proposed host laboratory qualifies.
Step 2: Prepare Project Proposal
Develop a detailed post-doctoral research project, including objectives, methodology, and timeline. Include hosting arrangements and co-financing agreements if applicable.
Step 3: Submit Application
Submit the application through the official portal, including all required documentation: CV, PhD certificate or viva confirmation, project description, and host laboratory details.
Step 4: Selection and Award
Applications are evaluated based on scientific merit, project feasibility, and alignment with the grant’s objectives. Successful applicants receive funding for the specified duration to conduct their post-doctoral research.
Tips for Applicants
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Ensure PhD completion is verified before fellowship start
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Confirm co-financing agreements with host laboratory if in France
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Prepare a clear, detailed, and feasible research proposal
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Highlight the novelty and impact of the research project
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Check age and first post-doctoral fellowship requirements
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who can apply for the Post-Doctoral Study Grants? French or foreign researchers holding a PhD and meeting age and experience criteria.
2. What is the maximum funding amount? €45,000 per year.
3. How long is the fellowship? 12 months (non-renewable) or 24 months.
4. Can I apply if I am already at the host laboratory? Yes, but you must have been there no more than three months as of September 1st, 2026.
5. Are there age restrictions? Yes, applicants must be 35 or younger on the closing date.
6. Are international host laboratories eligible? Yes, for applicants holding a French PhD, except mobility to countries of joint supervision/co-tutelle.
7. What costs does the grant cover? Hosting, living, and health insurance expenses.
Conclusion
The Post-Doctoral Study Grants 2026 provide essential funding and support for early-career researchers to advance their scientific careers. Eligible applicants can leverage this opportunity to pursue innovative research projects, gain international experience, and strengthen their professional networks in France or abroad.
For more information, visit Fyssen Foundation.
