About SciLifeLab and the PULSE Program
SciLifeLab (Science for Life Laboratory) is Sweden’s leading national research infrastructure for molecular biosciences. It integrates advanced research capabilities with cutting-edge technology platforms, enabling scientists to tackle some of the world’s most complex biological and medical questions. Within this dynamic ecosystem, the PULSE Fellowship (Postdoc for Utilization and Life Science Entrepreneurship) was conceived to transform academic discoveries into meaningful applications.
SciLifeLab’s PULSE Fellowship Call 2 opens in December 2025, targeting exceptional PhD-qualified researchers passionate about translating life science innovations into real-world impact. With structured academic and entrepreneurial tracks, this prestigious Swedish fellowship supports interdisciplinary projects aiming for societal utilization or commercialization. The fellowship officially begins in October 2026.
Backed by the Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation, one of the country’s most respected private research funders, the fellowship bridges academic excellence with entrepreneurial ambition. It empowers researchers to pursue scientific innovation that addresses critical healthcare, environmental, or societal challenges.
Who Should Apply?
The PULSE Fellowship is tailored for ambitious researchers eager to harness their scientific training toward impactful innovation. It offers two parallel tracks:
Academic Track
Focuses
on projects aimed at producing technologies or approaches for societal good, such as therapeutic tools, diagnostics, health platforms, or public health interventions.
Entrepreneurial Track
Designed for researchers intending to commercialize their innovation, including startup development, venture funding strategies, and scalable biotech solutions.
Ideal candidates include:
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- Postdoctoral researchers with demonstrable innovation interests
- Scientists interested in applied or translational research
- Entrepreneurs planning to launch biotech ventures
- Professionals with interdisciplinary collaborative experience
Fellowship Benefits and Funding Support
The PULSE Fellowship offers a robust package to support fellows through every stage of their innovation journey:
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- Competitive full-time salary in line with Swedish research institute standards
- Dedicated project funding for lab work, validation studies, and travel
- Access to SciLifeLab infrastructure: proteomics, genomics, metabolomics, imaging, and bioinformatics platforms
- Dual mentorship from academic supervisors and industry professionals
- Tailored entrepreneurship and innovation training, including IP, business planning, regulatory pathways, and pitch coaching
- Networking opportunities across Swedish universities, hospitals, and life science hubs
This integrated support ensures that fellows can focus fully on turning bold research concepts into tangible societal or commercial solutions.
Applicants are encouraged to propose projects that align with pressing global and national challenges in health, sustainability, or technology. Key themes include:
Preference is given to proposals with well-articulated utilization pathways—either via academic deployment or commercial feasibility.
Applicants of all nationalities are welcome. However, the fellowship must be conducted in Sweden in collaboration with a Swedish academic, clinical, or innovation partner.
The fellowship application window will open in December 2025. Here are the steps to apply:
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for panel interviews and feedback rounds. Final selection will be announced by mid-2026.
Sweden ranks among the top global leaders in research output, innovation, and life science infrastructure. SciLifeLab offers fellows access to a multidisciplinary environment with leading researchers, hospital partners, and industrial networks.
PULSE Fellows benefit from a uniquely collaborative ecosystem that encourages high-risk, high-reward scientific innovation.
The SciLifeLab PULSE Fellowship Call 2 (2025–2026) presents a unique opportunity for early-career researchers to translate scientific excellence into societal value. Whether your aspiration is to develop scalable diagnostics or launch a biotech startup, this fellowship provides the tools, mentorship, and funding to realize your vision.
What is the SciLifeLab PULSE Fellowship in Sweden? The SciLifeLab PULSE Fellowship is a two-year postdoctoral program supporting innovation-driven research in life sciences through academic or entrepreneurial pathways.
Who is eligible for the SciLifeLab PULSE Fellowship? Applicants must hold a PhD in life sciences or related fields and have no more than five years of postdoctoral experience.
When does the SciLifeLab PULSE Fellowship application open? The application period opens in December, with final selections announced by mid-year and the fellowship starting in October.
What are the two tracks in the PULSE Fellowship? You can choose either the academic track for societal research utilization or the entrepreneurial track focused on commercialization and startup development.
Does the PULSE Fellowship support international applicants? Yes, the fellowship welcomes candidates of all nationalities, provided the research is hosted by a Swedish institution.
What funding does the PULSE Fellowship provide? It includes a full-time salary, project funding, commercialization mentoring, infrastructure access, and travel support.
What types of research projects qualify for the PULSE Fellowship? Projects in translational medicine, biotechnology, diagnostics, digital health, and AI in life sciences are highly encouraged.
How competitive is the SciLifeLab PULSE Fellowship? The fellowship is highly competitive and seeks applicants with strong innovation potential and a well-defined utilization plan.
Can I propose a startup idea for the PULSE Fellowship? Yes, the entrepreneurial track supports researchers with commercialization goals, including plans to launch life science startups.
Where can I apply for the SciLifeLab PULSE Fellowship? Applications are submitted through the SciLifeLab website under the PULSE program section during the open call period.
