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.
About the Fellowship Program
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.
Fellowship Benefits
Successful fellows will receive excellent financial and academic support, including:
- Full salary coverage based on ETH Zurich standards
- CHF 12,000 per year for research-related costs
- Travel and mobility allowance
- Access to world-class laboratories and research facilities
- Opportunity to work with globally renowned professors
- International research exposure in Switzerland
- A strong pathway toward future professorships and academic leadership
Notably, ETH Zurich states that many previous fellows advanced to professorship positions within a few years after completing the fellowship.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the ETH Zurich Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a PhD from a university other than ETH Zurich or the University of Zurich
- Have completed the PhD within two years before the submission deadline
- If still completing the PhD, provide an official certificate stating the planned defense date
- Must not have lived or worked in Switzerland for more than 12 months in the last 3 years
- Must not have spent more than 6 months at ETH Zurich or the University of Zurich in the previous 3 years
- Must have at least one peer-reviewed scientific publication or an award for the doctoral thesis
- Must secure support from an ETH Zurich professor
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Required Documents
Applicants need to prepare the following documents:
- Valid passport copy
- Detailed research project proposal
- Academic CV with publication list
- Recent photograph
- Host professor’s brief CV
- One-page motivation letter
- Invitation letter from host professor
- PhD defense certification (if applicable)
- Two reference letters sent directly by referees
How to Apply
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.
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Application Deadline
The next confirmed deadline is:
1 September 2026 (17:00 Swiss local time)
Official Link & Apply Now
Official Link / Apply Here:
https://grantsoffice.ethz.ch/funding-opportunities/internal/eth-fellowships.html
Conclusion
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.
