ECTRIMS Postdoctoral Research Fellowship Program 2026 | Opportunity in Switzerland
Are you a young neuroscientist passionate about advancing multiple sclerosis (MS) research? The ECTRIMS Postdoctoral Research Fellowship Program 2026 offers a fully funded opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research in Europe, with a focus on Switzerland and other leading research hubs. Administered by the European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis (ECTRIMS), this prestigious fellowship supports postdoctoral researchers in basic, clinical, or applied MS research. With a generous €55,000 annual stipend, travel support, and access to world-class laboratories, this program fosters international collaboration and career growth. Don’t miss your chance to join the global MS research community abd apply by December 1, 2025.
Overview of ECTRIMS Postdoctoral Research Fellowship Program 2026
- Host Organization: European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis (ECTRIMS)
- Location: European research laboratories or clinics (including Switzerland)
- Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
- Eligible Applicants: International and European postdoctoral researchers (MD, PhD, ScD, or equivalent)
- Program Duration: 1 or 2 years (shorter durations considered under special circumstances)
- Application Deadline: December 1, 2025
The ECTRIMS Postdoctoral Research Fellowship Program 2026 is designed to train young neuroscientists and physicians in advanced research on multiple sclerosis (MS) and related neurological disorders. By fostering cross-border collaboration, ECTRIMS aims to expand the pool of skilled MS researchers and enhance knowledge exchange. Fellows work under the guidance of experienced mentors in top European labs or clinics, contributing to groundbreaking solutions for MS challenges. With a focus on Switzerland and other European hubs, this fellowship offers a unique platform for career-defining research.
Fellowship Focus and Opportunities
The ECTRIMS Fellowship supports research in basic, clinical, or applied areas of multiple sclerosis, covering specialties like neuroscience, neurology, and related fields. Key opportunities include:
- Research Projects: Develop and execute a clear MS-related research project in collaboration with a mentor.
- ECTRIMS Congress Participation: Present findings at annual ECTRIMS congresses, with travel and accommodation support provided.
- Cross-Border Collaboration: Work in a European lab or clinic in a country different from your own, promoting diverse perspectives.
- Flexible Engagement: Allocate up to 10% of time to teaching or clinical care unrelated to the research project.
This fellowship is ideal for researchers seeking to make a global impact in MS research while gaining international exposure.
Benefits of the ECTRIMS Postdoctoral Research Fellowship 2026
The ECTRIMS Fellowship 2026 offers comprehensive support to ensure fellows can focus on their research:
- Annual Stipend: €55,000 per year to cover living expenses during the 1- or 2-year fellowship.
- Travel Expenses: Economy round-trip transportation from your home location to the host institution, reimbursed upon submission of receipts.
- Congress Support: Separate funding for travel and accommodation to attend annual ECTRIMS congresses.
- Mentorship: Guidance from leading MS researchers at top European institutions.
- Research Facilities: Access to state-of-the-art laboratories or clinics in Europe, including Switzerland.
- International Collaboration: Engage with the global MS research community and experience cultural diversity across Europe.
- Career Development: Enhance your CV with prestigious research experience and potential publications in leading journals.
These benefits make the ECTRIMS Fellowship a premier opportunity for postdoctoral researchers.
Eligibility Criteria for ECTRIMS Postdoctoral Research Fellowship 2026
To qualify for the ECTRIMS Postdoctoral Research Fellowship 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Academic Qualifications: Hold an MD, PhD, ScD, or equivalent degree, conferred before the fellowship start date.
- Nationality: Open to applicants of any nationality, but research must be conducted in a European laboratory or clinic.
- Research Focus: Project must focus on multiple sclerosis (basic, clinical, or applied research in any relevant specialty).
- Postdoctoral Experience:
- Less than 5 years of postdoctoral experience beyond the final degree (PhD, MD, ScD, or equivalent).
- No more than 12 months of prior postdoctoral training at the proposed host institution or under the proposed mentor.
- Age Limit: Generally under 40 years at the time of application (exceptions considered for special circumstances).
- Cross-Border Requirement:
- European citizens must select a host institution in a different European country from their citizenship.
- Non-European citizens must conduct research in a European country.
- Language Proficiency: No language barriers between the applicant and mentor, with proficiency in English or the host institution’s local language.
- Mentor and Institution Restrictions:
- Applicants cannot have previously worked at the proposed host institution or under the proposed mentor.
- Mentors can be proposed in only one application per cycle, and institutions are limited to 3 awards total (1 per fellowship category).
These criteria ensure a diverse and qualified cohort of fellows dedicated to MS research.
Required Documents
To apply for the ECTRIMS Postdoctoral Research Fellowship 2026, submit the following:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) and Bibliography: Detailing academic qualifications, research experience, and publications.
- Career Plan: A 1-page document outlining your career goals and how the fellowship aligns with them.
- Abstract/Research Project Summary: A concise summary (max 250 words) of your proposed MS research project.
- Research Project Description: A detailed proposal (max 6 pages) outlining the project’s objectives, methodology, and significance.
- Proof of Language Proficiency: Documentation confirming proficiency in English or the host institution’s local language (e.g., certificate or mentor confirmation).
- Letters of Endorsement:
- Letter from the proposed mentor supporting the project and training plan.
- Letter from the host institution confirming their commitment to host the fellow.
- Two professional reference letters from individuals familiar with your work.
All documents must be submitted via the myECTRIMS online application system, with endorsement letters emailed to secretariat@ectrims.eu by December 1, 2025.
Application Deadline for ECTRIMS Postdoctoral Research Fellowship 2026
- Application Opening: August 1, 2025
- Application Deadline: December 1, 2025 (23:59 CET)
- Notification of Results: March–April 2026
- Fellowship Start Date: Typically June–September 2026
Submit your application early to ensure all documents and endorsements are complete by the deadline.
How to Apply for ECTRIMS Postdoctoral Research Fellowship 2026
Follow these steps to apply for the ECTRIMS Postdoctoral Research Fellowship 2026:
- Review Eligibility: Confirm you meet the eligibility criteria and have the required documents.
- Identify a Mentor and Host Institution: Select a European lab or clinic and a mentor who aligns with your research interests (ensure they haven’t been proposed in another application).
- Create an Account: Register and verify a new account on the myECTRIMS Application Portal.
- Complete the Application Form: Log in, enter personal and professional details, select two professional roles/specialties, and agree to the terms and conditions.
- Upload Documents: Submit your CV, bibliography, career plan, project summary, research project description, and proof of language proficiency.
- Secure Endorsements: Arrange for your mentor, host institution, and referees to submit letters of endorsement to secretariat@ectrims.eu by December 1, 2025.
- Submit Application: Review your application for completeness and submit via the myECTRIMS portal before the deadline.
- Await Review: Applications are evaluated by the ECTRIMS Fellowship Committee based on your qualifications, research proposal, and mentor/host institution suitability.
For detailed guidelines, visit the ECTRIMS Fellowship Program Official Website or contact the ECTRIMS Secretariat.
Why Choose the ECTRIMS Postdoctoral Research Fellowship?
The European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis (ECTRIMS) is the world’s largest professional organization dedicated to MS research, making this fellowship a prestigious opportunity. Here’s why it stands out:
- World-Class Research: Conduct cutting-edge MS research in leading European labs, including Switzerland’s renowned institutions.
- Global Networking: Engage with the international MS research community through ECTRIMS congresses and collaborations.
- Cultural Exposure: Experience Europe’s diverse cultures while working in a new country.
- Career Advancement: Gain mentorship, present at high-profile events, and enhance your CV with impactful research.
- Flexible Research Focus: Pursue basic, clinical, or applied MS research tailored to your expertise.
This fellowship is a gateway to becoming a leader in MS research while fostering international collaboration.
Additional Opportunities
Explore other international fellowships:
- NIAS Safe Haven Fellowship 2026
- Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme
- Toronto Metropolitan University Journalism Fellowship
Tips for a Successful ECTRIMS Fellowship Application
To increase your chances of securing the ECTRIMS Postdoctoral Research Fellowship 2026, follow these tips:
- Craft a Strong Research Proposal: Develop a clear, innovative MS research project with a feasible methodology and significant impact.
- Choose the Right Mentor: Select a mentor with expertise in MS research who can provide robust guidance.
- Highlight Qualifications: Emphasize your academic background, research experience, and publications in your CV and career plan.
- Secure Strong Endorsements: Ensure your mentor and referees provide compelling letters that highlight your readiness for the fellowship.
- Submit Early: Complete your application by mid-November 2025 to allow time for document preparation and endorsement submissions.
Conclusion
The ECTRIMS Postdoctoral Research Fellowship Program 2026 is a transformative opportunity for young neuroscientists and physicians to advance multiple sclerosis research in Europe. With a €55,000 annual stipend, full travel support, and access to top-tier laboratories, this fully funded fellowship empowers fellows to make a global impact. Don’t miss your chance to join the ECTRIMS community and contribute to groundbreaking MS solutions and apply now by December 1, 2025!
For more information or to apply, visit the ECTRIMS Official Website and start your journey toward a career-defining research experience in Europe.