The ETH Zurich Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026 is a highly competitive and prestigious program designed to nurture the next generation of academic leaders and researchers. Hosted by ETH Zurich, one of the world’s most respected institutions in science and technology, this Fully Funded Scholarship supports outstanding early-career scholars from around the globe in launching independent, high-impact research projects.
As one of Europe’s leading universities, ETH Zurich is recognized for pushing the boundaries of knowledge across disciplines. The fellowship provides unparalleled access to world-class facilities, international research networks, and mentorship from top scientists. The program serves as a powerful career accelerator, often leading to future professorships, high-profile academic roles, or leadership positions in Research Programs and beyond.
Ideal for those aiming to transition from doctoral research to academic independence, the fellowship empowers recipients to lead their own projects in a dynamic, collaborative, and innovation-driven environment.
Program Details
Host Country:
Switzerland
Program Location:
ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
Program Dates:
Two-year fellowship beginning in 2026
Program Themes or Focus Areas:
Open to all academic disciplines, including:
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Natural Sciences
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Engineering and Technology
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Life Sciences
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Environmental Sciences
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Humanities and Social Sciences
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Interdisciplinary Research Projects
The program is designed to support new ideas and innovative research across the full academic spectrum.
Benefits
The ETH Zurich Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026 offers comprehensive support for research and living expenses:
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Full salary in line with ETH Zurich standards
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CHF 10,000 per year allocated for research-related costs (e.g., materials, publications, software)
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Dedicated mobility allowance for travel to conferences and collaborative institutions
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Access to ETH Zurich’s cutting-edge laboratories, infrastructure, and research platforms
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Individual mentorship by leading scientists and participation in global research networks
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Opportunities to lead independent research, publish in high-impact journals, and contribute to scientific innovation
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Experience working and living in one of Europe’s most advanced and livable countries
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet strict eligibility conditions to be considered:
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Must have completed a PhD at a university other than ETH Zurich or the University of Zurich
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PhD must have been awarded within two years before the application deadline (or proof of expected defense must be provided)
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Must not have resided or carried out main activities (work/study) in Switzerland for more than 12 months in the last 3 years before the deadline
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Must not have worked or studied at ETH Zurich or the University of Zurich for more than 6 months in the last 3 years
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Must have at least one peer-reviewed scientific publication
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Must identify and secure support from an ETH Zurich professor willing to act as host and mentor
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Only one application per professor per evaluation round is permitted
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Fellowship applications should demonstrate a high level of independence and minimal prior collaboration with the prospective mentor
Applicants who do not fulfill these requirements will be automatically disqualified.
How to Apply
Follow these detailed steps to submit a successful application:
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Find a Mentor:
Identify a professor at ETH Zurich in your field of study who agrees to serve as your host. Secure a formal invitation letter from the mentor. -
Develop Your Project Proposal:
Use the official ETH Zurich template to prepare a well-structured research proposal (maximum five pages), including objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes. -
Prepare Application Documents:
Gather the following materials in PDF format:-
Copy of your passport
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Curriculum Vitae including complete publication list
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Research project description (using ETH template)
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Motivation letter outlining career goals and alignment with ETH Zurich
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Invitation letter and CV of the host professor
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Proof of expected PhD defense date (if applicable)
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Two confidential reference letters submitted directly to the ETH Zurich Grants Office
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Submit Application via eResearch System:
Applications must be submitted through ETH Zurich’s official eResearch platform. Ensure all components are complete and submitted by the deadline.
Important Note:
The application must reflect the candidate’s potential for academic independence. Prior collaboration with the host professor should be minimal. Professors can support only one candidate per cycle.
Application Deadline
1 September 2025 at 17:00 (Swiss local time)
It is highly recommended to start preparing well in advance. Securing a mentor, drafting a high-quality proposal, and collecting documents will take time. Incomplete or late submissions will not be reviewed.
Why ETH Zurich?
ETH Zurich is ranked among the top universities globally, known for its cutting-edge research and strong emphasis on real-world impact. Fellows at ETH Zurich benefit from:
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A dynamic and interdisciplinary research culture
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Proximity to top European institutions and collaborative partners
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Academic freedom and support for exploratory research
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Strategic location in Zurich, one of Europe’s innovation capitals
Moreover, Switzerland’s reputation for stability, safety, and high quality of life makes it an ideal destination for international scholars seeking to advance their research and careers in an intellectually stimulating and supportive environment.
Pathway to Academic Leadership
The ETH Zurich Postdoctoral Fellowship has a proven track record of supporting scholars who go on to secure professorships, postdoc-to-PI transitions, and long-term careers in academia, industry, and public policy. Fellows have published extensively in top-tier journals, developed independent labs, and influenced major research directions in their fields.
By enabling scholars to lead their own research from an early stage, this fellowship provides a crucial bridge between doctoral study and independent academic leadership. It is particularly valuable for those aiming to contribute meaningfully to global challenges and drive innovation in their disciplines.
Final Considerations
The ETH Zurich Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026 is more than a funding opportunity—it’s an investment in the future of science and academic leadership. With competitive benefits, world-class resources, and a culture of excellence, this Fully Funded Scholarship is ideal for emerging researchers ready to make their mark on the global academic landscape.
If you are passionate about your field, driven by curiosity, and eager to shape the future of knowledge, this fellowship could be the defining step in your academic journey.
Application Deadline:
1 September 2025 at 17:00 Swiss local time
