Swedish Research Council – International Postdoc Grant: A Fully Funded International Research Fellowship for Emerging PhDs

Early-career researchers looking to expand their international academic presence can now apply for one of Sweden’s most prestigious postdoctoral funding opportunities—the International Postdoc Grant, offered by the Swedish Research Council (Vetenskapsrådet). This fully funded program is designed to support researchers who have recently earned their PhD and wish to undertake independent research at a reputable institution outside Sweden.

By facilitating cross-border collaborations and encouraging the return of globally trained scholars to Swedish academia, this initiative not only contributes to the professional development of the individual but also strengthens the national research environment through knowledge exchange.

The Swedish Research Council’s International Postdoc Grant is a premier funding opportunity for early-career researchers aiming to build global academic careers. Offering up to 36 months of full support for research abroad, it empowers scholars from all disciplines to collaborate internationally and strengthen Sweden’s long-term research excellence.

What is the International Postdoc Grant?

The International Postdoc Grant is a competitive funding program established to support early-career researchers affiliated with Swedish institutions. The grant allows recipients to conduct high-quality, independent research at a recognized institution outside of Sweden for up to three years. This outward mobility is intended to enhance global partnerships, promote knowledge transfer, and build long-term international networks that benefit both the researcher and the Swedish research ecosystem.

Notably, this grant is open to all academic disciplines, including natural sciences, engineering, medicine, humanities, and social sciences. This wide disciplinary coverage underscores the Council’s commitment to fostering research excellence across sectors.

Why Apply for This Grant?

The International Postdoc Grant presents a unique opportunity for early-career scholars to refine their research skills, strengthen their academic credentials, and broaden their professional networks through high-level international collaboration. Here are four compelling reasons to apply:

Substantial Financial Support

This grant provides a comprehensive funding package that includes a full-time salary, relocation expenses, and project-related research costs. Additional allowances may be available for researchers traveling with dependents.

Global Collaboration and Institutional Access

Selected researchers will have the opportunity to work at globally renowned research institutions, access state-of-the-art laboratories, and collaborate with leading experts in their field.

Contribution to Swedish Research Ecosystem

Upon completion of the grant period, recipients are expected to return to Sweden and continue their research. The program is structured to ensure that international experiences directly contribute to the advancement of Swedish research capacities.

Inclusive Disciplinary Scope

Unlike many fellowships that focus exclusively on STEM or medical research, this grant supports all fields of study. Whether your work lies in computational physics, political theory, or linguistic anthropology, this program is relevant.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the International Postdoc Grant, applicants must fulfill the following criteria:

• • Doctoral Degree Requirement: The applicant must have been awarded a PhD no more than two years prior to the call deadline. Exceptions may be granted in certain documented cases (e.g., parental leave, illness).

  • Swedish Institutional Affiliation: While research is conducted abroad, the applicant must be affiliated with a Swedish university or research institute—particularly for the return phase.

  • Host Institution: The proposed research must take place at a recognized institution outside Sweden, and a formal letter of invitation must be submitted with the application.

  • Return Phase: Applicants are expected to return to Sweden for at least one-third of the grant period or after the international phase ends.

Note: Swedish nationality is not a requirement, but institutional affiliation within Sweden is essential.

Funding Structure and Duration

The International Postdoc Grant is designed to offer a robust financial foundation that allows researchers to focus entirely on their research objectives. The funding includes:

• • Monthly Salary: Paid at competitive Swedish academic scales appropriate for the host country and experience level.

  • Relocation and Travel: Grants for international travel to and from the host institution, including support for setup expenses.

  • Research Costs: Covers fieldwork, lab access, conference participation, publishing fees, and other direct research expenses.

  • Family Support: Additional allowance available for researchers accompanied by dependents.

The grant supports postdoctoral projects for a minimum of 18 months and a maximum of 36 months, typically divided into an international phase followed by a return phase in Sweden.

Anticipated Timeline for 2025–2026 Cycle

Note: Dates are subject to change and will be updated upon the official announcement. 

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Register on Prisma

All applicants must submit their application through Prisma, the official online platform used by the Swedish Research Council.

2. Prepare the Proposal

A comprehensive proposal must be submitted and should include:

• • Executive summary of the research project

  • Detailed research plan and methodology

  • Justification for choice of host institution

  • Career development goals and expected impact

  • Itemized budget

3. Host Institution Agreement

A signed letter of invitation or memorandum of understanding from the foreign host institution is required. This confirms the institution’s commitment to hosting the researcher.

4. Required Documentation

Applications must include:

• • PhD diploma or certificate

  • Academic CV with a complete publication list

  • Letters of recommendation

  • Institutional support letter from the Swedish host (for the return phase)

Important: Strong letters of support and a well-developed mentorship plan significantly increase the chance of success.

Preferred Host Institutions: Proven Track Record

Some of the world’s most respected research institutions have hosted past fellows, including:

• • Harvard University, USA

  • ETH Zurich, Switzerland

  • University of Cambridge, United Kingdom

  • University of Tokyo, Japan

  • Max Planck Society, Germany

Choose host institutions that closely align with your research focus and offer strong potential for long-term collaboration.

Outreach & Promotion Strategy

For researchers and institutions interested in promoting this opportunity, here is a sample outreach message:

The Swedish Research Council’s International Postdoc Grant 2025 is now accepting applications. This fully funded fellowship supports 18–36 months of postdoctoral research abroad in any discipline. Eligible candidates must have earned a PhD within the last two years and hold a Swedish affiliation.

Application window: August–September 2025
Conclusion

The International Postdoc Grant offered by the Swedish Research Council is a pivotal funding program designed to launch the global research careers of early-stage scholars. With its comprehensive financial backing, cross-disciplinary openness, and emphasis on international collaboration, it serves as a gateway to high-impact research and long-term professional growth.

For those who meet the criteria and are ready to take their research to an international stage, this grant represents a timely and strategic opportunity to build both academic excellence and international networks.

📌 Update Schedule & Maintenance

• • Review Frequency: Annually, each July–August (prior to call opening).

  • Last Updated: July 2025

  • Next Review Planned: August 2026 (pending call confirmation)

Program Summary Table

Citation: Swedish Research Council – International Postdoc Grant Information Page

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)