A Prestigious Opportunity for Emerging Researchers
International scholars seeking a transformative postdoctoral experience in Europe can find a world-class opportunity in the Wenner-Gren Postdoctoral Fellowship. Hosted by the Wenner-Gren Foundations in Stockholm, Sweden, this highly respected program enables early-career researchers from outside Sweden to pursue advanced, independent research within Swedish universities and research institutes.
For researchers across disciplines, from engineering and life sciences to the social sciences and humanities, the fellowship serves as a critical bridge between doctoral studies and academic independence.
What Is the Wenner-Gren Postdoctoral Fellowship?
The Wenner-Gren Postdoctoral Fellowship is an internationally recognized research opportunity, established to support talented scholars from around the world in their transition to academic independence. This program is designed specifically for non-Swedish PhD holders who wish to conduct postdoctoral work within Sweden.
With a strong focus on promoting global academic exchange, the fellowship is open to all academic fields. The aim is to bring promising international talent into Sweden’s academic ecosystem, while also providing Swedish institutions with fresh insights, perspectives, and collaborations.
Researchers benefit not only from financial support but also from exposure to Sweden’s globally recognized research infrastructure, inclusive work culture, and opportunities for professional development.
Why Consider the Wenner-Gren Fellowship?
style="text-align: justify;">The Wenner-Gren Postdoctoral Fellowship provides a competitive edge for early-career academics. Here are the key features that make this program particularly attractive:
International Recognition
The fellowship is one of the most distinguished research opportunities available in Sweden for foreign scholars. It adds substantial value to an academic CV and often serves as a pathway to permanent positions.
Comprehensive Financial Support
Each fellow receives a tax-free monthly stipend of SEK 30,000, equivalent to approximately €2,600. The stipend ensures that scholars can fully focus on their research without financial strain. Additionally, travel expenses for a round-trip journey to and from Sweden are covered.
Access to Sweden’s Research Ecosystem
Fellows are embedded within Sweden’s top universities and research centers. They benefit from close collaboration with established faculty, access to cutting-edge laboratories, and participation in the country’s robust academic networks.
Career Development Opportunities
In addition to research, fellows can participate in symposia, workshops, and training events organized by the Wenner-Gren Foundations and host institutions. These interactions significantly enhance professional visibility and skillsets.
Cultural and Academic Immersion
Living in Stockholm, fellows experience Sweden’s inclusive society, excellent quality of life, and proximity to Europe’s leading research hubs. The fellowship also encourages participation in interdisciplinary academic events and social activities.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria to qualify:
- Hold a PhD degree granted within the last five years.
- Be a citizen of a country other than Sweden.
- Have not resided in Sweden for more than 9 months in the 12 months before the application deadline.
- Be accepted by a Swedish research institution and have an official academic host/supervisor willing to support their research.
The host institution plays a vital role in the application process and must submit the application on behalf of the candidate.
What Does the Fellowship Include?
Stipend and Tax Exemption
The monthly stipend of SEK 30,000 is tax-exempt under Swedish regulations, ensuring that recipients receive the full value of their funding.
Travel Allowance
The fellowship includes reimbursement for one round-trip international journey between the scholar’s home country and Sweden.
Accommodation Support
Wenner-Gren Fellows may request to stay in subsidized apartments at Helicon, a residential building within the Wenner-Gren Center in Stockholm. This location offers convenient access to the city’s research and academic infrastructure.
Research Engagement
Fellows are expected to engage actively in the academic life of their host institution, contribute to departmental activities, and participate in national and international academic events, including those organized
by the Wenner-Gren Foundations.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Applications are managed through the host institution, which must act as the formal applicant.
Step 1: Identify a Host
Candidates should initiate contact with a Swedish university or research institute and secure a commitment from a faculty member to serve as host.
Step 2: Prepare Required Materials
Typical application documents include:
- A research proposal outlining project objectives, methodology, and timeline (maximum 5 pages)
- A comprehensive curriculum vitae
- Proof of doctoral degree
- A letter of commitment from the host institution
- Description of how the proposed work aligns with the host’s academic focus
Step 3: Submission via Portal
The host institution must compile and submit the complete application through the Wenner-Gren Foundations’ online portal.
Website: https://www.swgc.org
Application Timeline: 2025–2026 Cycle
Stage | Date |
Portal Opens | August 2025 |
Final Submission Deadline | October 1, 2025 |
Review and Notifications | November to December 2025 |
Fellowship Start Date | Early 2026 (flexible start) |
Note: If the October 1 deadline falls on a weekend, submissions are accepted until 11:59 PM CET on the next working day.
Life in Sweden as a Research Fellow
Fellows based in Stockholm benefit from the city’s combination of modernity, safety, and sustainability. Sweden ranks high on global indices for quality of life, innovation, and academic output. Public services are well-developed, and the academic community is highly international.
Key advantages include:
- Efficient public transport and infrastructure
- English-friendly environment in academia and daily life
- Opportunities for EU/Schengen travel during the fellowship period
- Close proximity to academic, cultural, and professional networks
Living in the Wenner-Gren Center places scholars at the heart of Stockholm’s academic landscape, facilitating both productivity and personal growth.
| Feature | Details |
|---|
| Program Name | Wenner-Gren Postdoctoral Fellowship |
| Host Country / Region | Sweden |
| Funded By | Wenner-Gren Foundations |
| Duration | 6 to 24 months |
| Study Mode | Full-time, on-site |
| Eligibility | Non-Swedish PhD holders (degree awarded within past 5 years) |
| Financial Support | Monthly stipend (SEK 30,000), travel reimbursement, subsidized housing |
| Fields of Study | Open to all academic disciplines |
| Application Deadline | 10/01/2025 |
| Official Website | https://www.swgc.org |
FAQs (People Also Ask)
What is the Wenner‑Gren Postdoctoral Fellowship?The Wenner‑Gren Postdoctoral Fellowship is a fully funded research program in Sweden for international scholars pursuing postdoctoral studies across various academic disciplines.
Who is eligible for the Wenner‑Gren Fellowship in Sweden?Non-Swedish researchers with a PhD awarded within the last five years and a Swedish host institution are eligible to apply.
How much is the Wenner‑Gren Fellowship stipend?Selected fellows receive a monthly, tax-free stipend of SEK 30,000, along with round-trip travel reimbursement to Sweden.
Can I apply to the Wenner‑Gren Fellowship without a Swedish host?No, you must secure a host institution and academic supervisor in Sweden before submitting your application.
Is the Wenner‑Gren Fellowship open to all academic fields?Yes, the fellowship accepts applications from all disciplines, including science, technology, humanities, and social sciences.
What is the duration of the Wenner‑Gren Postdoctoral Fellowship?The fellowship can last from a minimum of 6 months up to a maximum of 24 months, depending on the research plan.
When is the application deadline for the Wenner‑Gren Fellowship?Applications must be submitted by October 1 each year. If this date falls on a weekend, the deadline shifts to the next working day.
Does the Wenner‑Gren Fellowship provide housing support in Sweden?Yes, fellows can request subsidized housing at the Wenner‑Gren Center’s Helicon building in central Stockholm.
Are dependents supported under the Wenner‑Gren Fellowship?You may bring your family, but the fellowship does not offer additional financial support for dependents.
Can the Wenner‑Gren Fellowship be extended beyond 24 months?No, the fellowship has a strict maximum duration of 24 months and cannot be extended under any circumstances.
