The ERCIM “Alain Bensoussan” Fellowship Programme offers PhD holders worldwide an exciting opportunity to conduct research at leading European research institutes.
This prestigious fellowship allows talented researchers to work on cutting-edge projects in computer science, IT, and applied mathematics at one of the ERCIM member institutes. It fosters international collaboration, professional growth, and networking with top European researchers. You can also check out TUM Global Postdoc Fellowship
Who Can Apply?
- Eligibility: Open to PhD holders from any country.
- PhD Requirement: You must have obtained a PhD within the last 8 years (prior to the application year deadline) or be in the final year of your thesis with an outstanding academic record. Proof of PhD is required before starting the fellowship.
- Mobility Rules:
- You cannot be hosted by an institute in your home country.
- You cannot have worked at the host institute for more than 6 months in the last 3 years (including PhD or postdoc studies).
- Open to All: Researchers from both academia and industry are encouraged to apply.
Duration
The fellowship lasts 12 months and is spent at one of the ERCIM member institutes. It can be renewed for a second term (one reselection possible).
Interested in More Postdoc Positions? Follow links below
Research Topics
- Applied Computing (e.g., computer forensics, e-commerce, medical sciences)
- Computer Systems Organization (e.g., embedded systems, real-time systems)
- Computing Methodologies (e.g., AI, machine learning, computer graphics)
- Human-Centered Computing (e.g., HCI, visualization, accessibility)
- Information Systems (e.g., data management, information retrieval)
- Mathematics of Computing (e.g., numerical analysis, probability)
- Networks (e.g., network security, protocols)
- Security and Privacy (e.g., cryptography, malware detection)
- Software Engineering (e.g., software creation, resilient systems)
- Theory of Computation (e.g., algorithms, computational complexity)
For a full list, visit ERCIM Topics.
Check this: 12 Fully-Funded Postdoctoral Opportunities at the University of Florida
Where Are Fellows Hosted?
Fellows are hosted by ERCIM member institutes, which include leading research centers across Europe. Examples include:
- CNR (Italy)
- Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft (Germany)
- INESC (Portugal)
- RISE (Sweden)
Some ERCIM members are consortia or funding organizations, so the hosting institute may vary within their network. Check the ERCIM website for a list of participating institutes and their national contacts.
Also check: British Academy Postdoctoral Fellowships 2026-27
How to Apply
Applications are accepted online only through the ERCIM application system. The next deadline is 30 September 2025.
Application Requirements
- Complete the online application form.
- Submit the following via the online system:
- Detailed CV (exclude sensitive personal data like race, religion, or political opinions; see the Application Guide).
- List of publications.
- Two scientific papers in English.
- Contact details of two referees.
Check also: JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowships for Research in Japan
Fellowship Conditions
Contract Types
Fellows are appointed for 12 months under either:
- Stipend Contract: A research training agreement (not an employment contract). No contributions are made for unemployment or retirement benefits.
- Working Contract: A salaried position, subject to the host country’s labor laws.
Monthly Allowances (2025 Round)
| Country | Institute | Allowance | Contract Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Italy | CNR | €2,240 | Stipend |
| Germany | Fraunhofer | €3,000 | Stipend |
| Portugal | INESC | €1,807 | Working |
| Sweden | RISE | €2,925 | Stipend |
Check also: VIP3 Postdoctoral Fellowship Program
Travel and Insurance
- Travel Costs: Up to €500 per trip (for travel to/from the host institute) is reimbursed for economy-class flights or first-class train tickets.
- Insurance:
- Working Contracts: Fellows are covered by social insurance per the host country’s regulations.
- Stipend Contracts: Personal health insurance is provided by Campus France, covering medical repatriation, disability/death benefits, and civil liability (outside the home country). Family members are not covered.
Research Exchange Programme
Fellows must spend at least one week at another ERCIM member institute. ERCIM covers reasonable expenses (travel, accommodation, meals) up to €100/month over the fellowship period.
More fellowships: DAAD PRIME Fellowship Programme
Conference Participation
Fellows are encouraged to attend and present at scientific conferences. ERCIM covers registration and travel costs (up to €100/month) if a paper is accepted. This can also be used for open-access journal fees.
Selection Process
Applications are reviewed by senior scientists at ERCIM institutes based on:
- Scientific expertise and publications.
- Relevance of the proposed research.
- Added value to the ERCIM consortium.
- Previous mobility and professional experience.
The number of positions varies depending on the institutes’ needs and funding.
Check out: International Visiting Research Fellowship Programme
Equal Opportunities
ERCIM promotes diversity and equal opportunities. Applicants are not discriminated against based on race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, or disability.
Disclaimer: This information is not legally binding. Always refer to the official ERCIM website for the latest details.
