ECTRIMS Postdoctoral Research Fellowship Exchange Program – 2026

Posted by: Smart || Categories: Scholarship

Fully Funded Research Fellowships in Neuroscience & Multiple Sclerosis – Study in Europe

The European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis (ECTRIMS) is now accepting applications for the 2026 Postdoctoral Research Fellowship Exchange Program. This prestigious fellowship is open to talented researchers worldwide who wish to undertake postdoctoral research in neuroscience and multiple sclerosis (MS) at leading European institutions.

The program aims to foster international collaboration, exchange knowledge, and develop a pool of highly skilled MS-focused research scientists. Several fellowships are awarded each year to support outstanding projects in basic, clinical, or applied MS research.

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Program Overview

• Level of Study: Postdoctoral

• Host Institutions: Approved European laboratories or clinics

• Research Focus: Neuroscience & Multiple Sclerosis (basic, applied, or clinical research in any relevant specialty)

• Program Duration: 1–2 years (shorter fellowships under exceptional circumstances)

• Application Deadline: December 1, 2025

• Eligible Nationalities: All countries

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Fellowship Benefits

The ECTRIMS Postdoctoral Research Fellowship provides:

• Annual Stipend: €55,000

• Travel Support: Economy round-trip airfare from home country to host institution (family travel not covered)

• Payment Structure: Funds are paid to the host institution, which employs the fellow and manages salary payments according to its policies.

• Social Benefits: Remaining funds after salary payment may be used for institutional benefits (healthcare, pension, etc.).

• Supplementary Funding: If total costs exceed the ECTRIMS award, the host institution/mentor must cover the difference.

• Congress Participation: Fellows must attend annual ECTRIMS Congresses and present their research (travel and accommodation funded separately).

Note: No additional support is provided for books, journal subscriptions, or miscellaneous expenses.

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Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Hold a PhD, MD, ScD, or equivalent advanced degree before the fellowship start date.

• At application time, have no more than 1 year of postdoctoral training at the same host institution/mentor.

• Have no more than 5 years total of postdoctoral experience beyond the final degree.

• Preferably be under 40 years of age (exceptions considered in special cases).

• Demonstrate sufficient language proficiency for the host institution.

• Be a citizen of any country (research must be conducted in Europe).

• Commit to the proposed research project with a qualified mentor at the host institution.

Returning to the home institution after the fellowship is desirable but not mandatory. Post-fellowship career plans should be detailed in the application.

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Application Process

Step 1 – Online Registration

• Visit the ECTRIMS Fellowship Portal and create an account.

• Complete the online application form.

Step 2 – Required Documents (upload via application system)

1. Abbreviated CV & bibliography (max 5 pages, ECTRIMS biographical sketch format).

2. Career plan statement (max 1 page).

3. Abstract summary of research project (max 250 words).

4. Full research project proposal (max 6 pages, including figures/tables/references).

5. Proof of host country language proficiency.

Step 3 – Additional Required Submissions (emailed to fellowship@ectrims.eu by Dec 1)
These must be sent directly by referees/institution as confidential documents:

• From Host Institution:

  • Letter of support from department chair/official.

  • Signed certification of acceptance of ECTRIMS fellowship terms.

• From Proposed Mentor:

  • Letter of endorsement highlighting candidate suitability and research plan.

  • Abbreviated CV (max 5 pages, ECTRIMS format).

• From Referees:

  • At least three recommendation letters from professionals familiar with the candidate.

  • One letter from degree mentor.

  • (If applicable) Letter from home institution confirming post-fellowship return plans.

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Key Dates

• Application Deadline: December 1, 2025

• Program Start Date: 2026 (exact dates determined with host institution)

APPLY HERE

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