SNSF Postdoc.Mobility
The SNSF Postdoc.Mobility fellowships are aimed at researchers who have obtained a doctorate and who wish to pursue an academic career in Switzerland. A research stay abroad enables such researchers to acquire more in-depth knowledge, increases their scientific independence and enhances their research profile.
The fellowships include a grant for subsistence costs, a flat-rate for travel expenses and a possible contribution to research, conference costs and matriculation fees. In addition, fellowship holders can apply for a return grant to finance their initial period of research after returning to Switzerland.
August 4, 2026: Final submission deadline
The SNSF is reforming its career funding. The final submission deadline for Postdoc.Mobility is set for August 2027. The eligibility criteria for the remaining calls are being adjusted. A new postdoctoral funding scheme will be launched in 2028. Researchers with an ongoing Postdoc.Mobility fellowship will have the possibility to submit an application for a return grant even after the final submission deadline.
Revised eligibility criteria for Postdoc.Mobility:
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Applicants must have Swiss citizenship or a Swiss permanent settlement permit, or be married to or in a registered partnership with a Swiss citizen. Otherwise, they must hold a degree from a Swiss institution (doctorate [PhD, MD]) or state examination) and not have already had a postdoctoral position abroad.
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Proposals can be submitted no earlier than 6 months before the thesis defence (instead of 9 months at present).
Duration of fellowships
In principle 24 months (fellowship) and 3 to 12 months (return phase)
Eligibility requirements
- Submission at the earliest 9 months before completion of the doctorate (PhD, MD-PhD) and up to 3 years afterwards
- Medical researchers without MD-PhD: submission up to 8 years after the state examination (and at least 3 years of clinical activity after the state examination)
- Swiss nationality, holder of valid Swiss permanent residence, residence or cross-border commuter permit
- Foreign nationals: at least 2 years of research activity at a Swiss research institution