Applications Open for ETH Postdoctoral Fellowships 2025-26 in Switzerland

Spread the love

Are you a recent PhD graduate looking for a fully funded opportunity to advance your research career? The ETH Postdoctoral Fellowship Program at ETH Zurich, Switzerland, offers an excellent platform for early-career researchers to pursue independent research at one of the world’s top universities. This prestigious fellowship supports young scientists who have shown exceptional talent and provides access to world-class facilities, mentorship, and funding. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about the ETH Postdoctoral Fellowships for 2025-26, including eligibility, benefits, and how to apply.

All Available Positions

What is the ETH Postdoctoral Fellowship Program?

The ETH Postdoctoral Fellowship Program (also known as ETH Fellows) is designed to support incoming postdoctoral researchers at ETH Zurich, a globally renowned university for science, engineering, and technology. The program aims to foster young researchers who have demonstrated scientific excellence early in their careers. It offers a two-year fellowship to help fellows work toward academic independence by leading their own research projects.

Key Highlights

Duration: 2 years (non-extendable)
Funding: Fully funded with a competitive salary and research expenses
Deadlines: March 1 and September 1, 2025 (17:00 Swiss local time)
Success Rate: Approximately 25% in previous rounds
Mentorship: Requires support from an ETH Zurich professor

Who Can Apply? Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the ETH Postdoctoral Fellowship, you must meet the following requirements:

Academic Requirements

PhD Degree: You must hold a PhD or plan to complete it within 6 months of the application deadline. The PhD must have been awarded no more than 2 years before the deadline (based on the date of your defense/viva voce).
Publications or Awards: You need at least one peer-reviewed publication in a scientific journal or a prize for your doctoral thesis.
Not from ETH Zurich or University of Zurich: Applicants who earned their PhD from ETH Zurich or the University of Zurich are not eligible.

Residency and Work Restrictions

Limited Time in Switzerland: You must not have lived or worked in Switzerland for more than 12 months in the 3 years before the application deadline.
Limited Affiliation with ETH Institutions: You must not have worked or studied for more than 6 months in the last 3 years at ETH Zurich, EPF Lausanne, ETH domain institutes (PSI, WSL, Empa, Eawag), or the University of Zurich.

Research and Mentorship

Independent Project: Priority is given to applicants who propose their own research ideas. You should draft the application yourself, and there should be minimal prior collaboration with your ETH Zurich mentor.
Mentor Support: You need an ETH Zurich professor to agree to be your mentor. Each professor can support only one candidate per evaluation round.

Benefits of the ETH Postdoctoral Fellowship

The ETH Postdoctoral Fellowship offers generous financial and professional support to help you focus on your research:

Financial Benefits

Salary: Fully covered based on ETH Zurich standards (approximately CHF 91,280 in year 1 and CHF 95,860 in year 2, including 15% social security contributions).
Research Funding: CHF 10,000 per year for research expenses, including travel, mobility allowances, and research costs (cannot be used for salary).
Living Expenses: The fellowship covers living costs, allowing you to focus on your work.

Professional Benefits

World-Class Facilities: Access to cutting-edge labs and resources at ETH Zurich.
Mentorship: Work with renowned professors and researchers from around the world.
Networking: Opportunities to attend international conferences and collaborate with industry partners.
Career Growth: Nearly 40-50% of fellows secure professorships within a few years of completing the fellowship.
Cultural Experience: Live in Zurich, Switzerland’s vibrant largest city, and explore European culture.

How to Apply for the ETH Postdoctoral Fellowship

The application process is straightforward but competitive. Follow these steps to submit a strong application:

Step 1: Find a Mentor

Identify an ETH Zurich professor whose research aligns with your project. Contact them early to discuss your proposal and secure their support.
Ensure there are clear synergies between your project and the professor’s research group.

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

You’ll need to submit the following documents in PDF format (no password protection):

Candidate’s CV: A detailed CV with your publications, education, and employment history.
Host Professor’s CV: A short CV of the mentor (maximum 2 pages).
Research Project Description: Use the official ETH template to outline your project, role, and how it fits with the host group.
Career Goals Outline: A 1-page description of your career aspirations.
Motivation Letter: A 1-page letter explaining why you’re a strong candidate.
Invitation Letter: A letter from your host professor endorsing your excellence.
Reference Letters: Two external reference letters sent directly to the ETH Grants Office by your referees (at least 10 days before the deadline).
Certification (if applicable): If you haven’t completed your PhD, include a signed certificate from your advisor or department chair stating your planned defense date.

Templates for the project description and accompanying information can be downloaded from the ETH Grants Office website.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Online System: Applications must be submitted via the ETH Zurich grant application system (eResearch).
Create an Account: Register on eResearch with your email (ETH employees use their ETH email). If it’s your first time, set a password.
Start Application: Go to “My Applications” or “New Grant Application” in eResearch, select the ETH Postdoctoral Fellowship call, and upload your documents.
Deadline: Submit by March 1 or September 1, 2025, at 17:00 Swiss local time. If the deadline falls on a weekend, it shifts to the next Monday.

Step 4: Evaluation Process

Initial Review: The ETH Zurich Research Commission evaluates applications based on scientific merit and independence.
Interview: Shortlisted candidates are invited for a 15-minute online interview within 2 months of the deadline. Be prepared to discuss your project and goals.
Final Decision: Funding decisions are announced about 4 months after the deadline.

Step 5: Start Your Fellowship

Start Date: Fellowships begin on the first day of a month, no later than 8 months after the application deadline. Request approval from the Grants Office for a later start if needed.

Tips for a Strong Application

Craft an Original Proposal: Highlight your innovative ideas and how they align with your mentor’s expertise.
Show Independence: Emphasize that the project is your own and not a continuation of prior work with your mentor.
Be Clear and Concise: Use the provided templates and follow instructions carefully.
Secure Strong References: Choose referees who can speak to your scientific excellence and potential.
Start Early: Contact your mentor and prepare documents well in advance to avoid last-minute issues.

Why Choose ETH Zurich?

ETH Zurich, also known as the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich, is consistently ranked among the world’s top universities. Located in Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city, it offers:

Excellence in Research: A global leader in science, engineering, and technology.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Access to advanced labs and resources.
Vibrant Community: Collaborate with a diverse group of researchers and professors.
Cultural Hub: Enjoy Zurich’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and proximity to other European cities.

Important Deadlines and Contact Information

Application Deadlines: March 1 and September 1, 2025 (17:00 Swiss local time)
Reference Letters: Must be sent to the Grants Office at least 10 days before the deadline
Contact: For questions, email ethfellows@sl.ethz.ch
Official Website: ETH Grants Office

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply if I don’t have a PhD yet?

Yes, but you must complete your PhD within 6 months of the application deadline and submit a signed certificate of your planned defense date.

Can I extend the fellowship beyond 2 years?

No, the fellowship is fixed at 2 years and cannot be prolonged.

How competitive is the fellowship?

The success rate is around 25%, so a strong proposal and mentor support are crucial.

Do I need to know German to apply?

No, English is sufficient for research and communication at ETH Zurich.

Conclusion

The ETH Postdoctoral Fellowship 2025-26 is a golden opportunity for early-career researchers to advance their careers at a world-leading institution. With full funding, access to top facilities, and mentorship from renowned professors, this fellowship can be a stepping stone to a successful academic career. Start preparing your application early, secure a mentor, and submit a compelling proposal to seize this chance. For more details, visit the ETH Grants Office website.

Good luck, and we hope to see you thriving at ETH Zurich!