Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) Postdoc. Mobility fellowships 2025–2026

Omran Aburayya
May 30
3 min read

If you're a recent doctoral graduate aiming to elevate your research profile through international collaboration, the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) offers an exceptional opportunity. The Postdoc.Mobility fellowships for 2025–2026 are now open for applications, providing researchers with the chance to conduct a research stay abroad. This initiative is designed to enhance scientific independence and expand professional networks, laying a solid foundation for a future academic career in Switzerland.

📌SNSF Fellowship Summary

Location: Global (research stay abroad)
Host Institution: Any recognized research institution outside Switzerland
Academic Level: Postdoctoral
Target Group: Researchers with a PhD or equivalent degree
Fields of Study: All disciplines
Award Value and Coverage:
- Subsistence allowance
- Flat-rate for travel expenses
- Possible contribution to research and conference costs
- Optional return grant covering salary and social security contributions
Award Duration:
- Fellowship: 12 to 24 months
- Return Grant: 3 to 12 months
Application Deadlines:
- 5 August 2025, 17:00 CET
- 3 February 2026, 17:00 CET
Start Date: From 1 August 2026
Eligible Applicants: Swiss nationals, residents, or individuals with significant research experience in Switzerland

🧭 Fellowship Overview

The SNSF Postdoc.Mobility fellowships are crafted to support postdoctoral researchers in conducting a research stay abroad. The primary goal is to acquire in-depth knowledge, extend scientific networks, and enhance research profiles, all of which are pivotal for a future academic career in Switzerland.

Fellowship recipients may also apply for a return grant to finance their initial research period upon returning to Switzerland. This return grant includes salary and social security contributions, facilitating a smooth transition back into the Swiss research environment.

🎁 Fellowship Benefits

Financial Support:
- Monthly subsistence allowance tailored to the cost of living in the host country
- Flat-rate travel allowance
- Optional contributions to research and conference expenses
Return Grant:
- Salary and social security contributions for 3 to 12 months upon return to Switzerland
Additional Support:
- Access to SNSF’s network and resources
- Opportunities for professional development and training

✅ Eligibility Criteria

Academic Qualifications:
- Completed PhD, MD-PhD, or equivalent degree
- Applicants who will complete their doctorate within nine months after the submission deadline are also eligible
Timeframe:
- Application within 3 years after the doctoral exam (PhD, MD-PhD)
- Medical researchers without MD-PhD: within 8 years after the state examination and at least 3 years of clinical activity
Nationality and Residency:
- Swiss nationals
- Holders of Swiss permanent residence, residence, or cross-border commuter permits
- Individuals married to or in a registered partnership with a Swiss national
- Foreign nationals with at least 2 years of research activity at a Swiss research institution

📝 Application Procedure and Required Documents

Registration:
- Create a user account on the mySNF platform at least five working days before the submission deadline.
Application Preparation:
- Develop your research proposal in accordance with the Postdoc.Mobility guidelines.
- Ensure all required documents are prepared, including:
  - Research plan
  - CV and list of publications
  - Confirmation letter from the host institution
  - Letter of support from the mentor at the host institution
  - Mobility statement
Submission:
- Submit the complete application via the mySNF platform before the respective deadline.

📌 Additional Information

Evaluation Process:
- Applications are evaluated based on scientific quality, the applicant's qualifications, and the potential for professional development.
Resubmissions:
- As of 1 January 2025, resubmissions are treated the same as first submissions. Applicants are no longer required to declare resubmissions or provide a written explanation of revisions.
Confidential Reference Letters:
- No longer required for Postdoc.Mobility fellowship applications and Return Grants.
Support:
- For inquiries, contact the SNSF Careers division at pm@snf.ch.