Status: Closed — The application deadlines for the 2027 cycle have passed. The next cycle is expected to open in early 2027.
| Organiser | Human Frontier Science Program |
|---|---|
| Host Country | Multiple countries |
| Deadline | May 12, 2026 (LOI), September 24, 2026 (Full Proposal) |
| Funding | Fully funded (living, research, travel allowances) |
| Eligibility | PhD or equivalent, international applicants |
Note: The application deadlines for the Human Frontier Science Program (HFSP) Postdoctoral Fellowships 2027 cycle have passed, and the programme is now closed for this cycle. The next application cycle is expected to open in early 2027, with deadlines likely in May and September 2027. Prospective applicants should begin preparing their research proposals and supporting documents in advance to meet the upcoming deadlines.
The HFSP Postdoctoral Fellowships offer prestigious, fully funded opportunities for international early-career scientists to conduct interdisciplinary and frontier research in the life sciences. These fellowships support innovative projects that challenge existing scientific paradigms and encourage researchers to move into new fields and countries to broaden their expertise.
About the Human Frontier Science Program Postdoctoral Fellowships
The HFSP Postdoctoral Fellowships are designed to foster high-risk, high-reward research in life sciences through two main fellowship types:
- Long-Term Fellowships (LTF): For life science PhD holders who want to branch into different research topics.
- Cross-Disciplinary Fellowships (CDF): For doctoral graduates in fields such as physics, chemistry, mathematics, engineering, or computer sciences who want to engage in life sciences research.
Funding and Coverage
The HFSP Fellowships provide comprehensive financial support, enabling fellows to fully focus on their research abroad. The funding includes:
- Living allowance covering daily expenses
- Research allowance for project-related costs
- Travel allowance for relocation and conference attendance
- Additional allowances for child care, parental leave, and relocation support depending on circumstances
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must have a PhD or equivalent doctoral degree by the fellowship start date.
- Applicants must plan to conduct research in a country different from where they obtained their PhD or completed their first postdoctoral position.
- Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English.
- At least one lead-author research paper published, accepted, or in press in an international peer-reviewed journal or preprint server is required (English language only; review articles and patents are excluded).
- The programme is open to candidates worldwide.
Application Process for the 2027 Cycle (Now Closed)
The application process consisted of two stages:
- Letter of Intent (LOI): Submitted by May 12, 2026, via the ProposalCentral platform. This included research title, keywords, summary, CV, PhD details, proposed host supervisor and institution, publication list, and disclosure of previous collaborations.
- Full Proposal: Invited candidates submitted full proposals by September 24, 2026, including detailed research plans, significance, host lab fit, updated publications, and recommendation letters.
Preparing for the Next HFSP Postdoctoral Fellowships Cycle
With the 2027 cycle closed, interested applicants should use this time to:
- Develop innovative and interdisciplinary research proposals aligned with HFSP’s focus on frontier life sciences.
- Identify and establish collaborations with potential host supervisors and institutions in eligible countries.
- Gather and update publication records and recommendation letters.
- Monitor the official HFSP Postdoctoral Fellowships page for announcements about the 2028 cycle opening in early 2027.
Alternative Fully Funded Postdoctoral Fellowships
If you are seeking other fully funded postdoctoral opportunities, consider these options:
- Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Postdoctoral Fellowships: European Union-funded fellowships supporting international mobility and interdisciplinary research.
- EMBO Postdoctoral Fellowships: Support for life sciences research in Europe and associated countries.
- Human Frontier Science Program Cross-Disciplinary Fellowships: Specifically for applicants from non-life science backgrounds entering life sciences research.
- National and institutional postdoctoral fellowships: Many countries and universities offer competitive fellowships with full funding; check local opportunities.
Funding Options and Financial Considerations for International Postdoctoral Researchers
While HFSP fellowships provide full funding, understanding the broader financial landscape is important for postdoctoral researchers considering international mobility.
Typical Costs for International Postdoctoral Researchers
| Cost Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Living Expenses | Includes accommodation, food, transport, and personal costs. Varies widely by country and city. |
| Health Insurance | Mandatory in many countries; costs depend on coverage and host institution policies. |
| Research Expenses | Covered by research allowance in fellowships like HFSP; includes consumables, equipment, and travel related to research. |
| Application and Visa Fees | Costs for visa processing and fellowship application portals. |
Funding Sources Beyond HFSP Fellowships
- Education Loans: Some countries offer specialized loans for international researchers, though these are less common at postdoctoral level.
- Research Assistantships and Teaching Positions: Some institutions offer paid positions alongside fellowships.
- Employer Sponsorship: Industry or governmental research institutions may provide funding or salary support.
- Other Scholarships and Grants: National science foundations and private organizations may offer complementary funding.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the Human Frontier Science Program Postdoctoral Fellowships 2027 cycle still open?
No, the 2027 application cycle is closed. The next cycle is expected to open in early 2027.
Who is eligible to apply for the HFSP Postdoctoral Fellowships?
Applicants worldwide with a PhD or equivalent, planning to conduct research in a different country than where they earned their PhD or first postdoc, and with at least one lead-author publication in English.
What does the HFSP fellowship funding cover?
It covers living, research, and travel allowances, plus additional support for child care, parental leave, and relocation where applicable.
How can I prepare for the next HFSP fellowship cycle?
Start developing your research proposal, identify potential host labs, update your CV and publications, and monitor official HFSP announcements.
Are there similar fellowships to HFSP for postdoctoral researchers?
Yes, fellowships like the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions, EMBO fellowships, and various national and institutional programs offer fully funded postdoctoral opportunities.
Where can I find official information about HFSP Postdoctoral Fellowships?
Visit the official HFSP Postdoctoral Fellowships page for the latest updates and application guidelines.
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