Are you an early-career researcher eager to expand your expertise in the life sciences? The Human Frontier Science Program Postdoctoral Fellowships offer an excellent opportunity to pursue cutting-edge research in an international setting. This guide covers everything you need to know about the fellowship program, including benefits, eligibility, and a step-by-step application process.
What is the Human Frontier Science Program Postdoctoral Fellowship?
The HFSP Postdoctoral Fellowship 2025-2026 is a fully funded scholarship for international students pursuing advanced research in life sciences. It supports groundbreaking, interdisciplinary research that challenges existing paradigms and tackles pressing scientific problems. Fellows receive a living allowance, research funding, travel allowance, and may also qualify for additional allowances such as child, parental leave, and relocation support.
Fellowship Categories
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Long-Term Fellowships (LTF): For those with a Ph.D. in biological disciplines who aim to explore new areas of life sciences research significantly different from their prior work.
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Cross-Disciplinary Fellowships (CDF): For applicants with a Ph.D. in fields outside the life sciences (e.g., physics, chemistry, engineering, or mathematics) seeking to apply their expertise to life sciences research.
HFSP Fellowship Coverage
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Living Allowance: To cover your living expenses while abroad.
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Research and Travel Allowance: For project-related expenses and travel.
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Additional Allowances: Including child, parental leave, and relocation allowances depending on individual circumstances.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the HFSP Postdoctoral Fellowship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
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Educational Requirements: A completed Ph.D. or equivalent degree in a research discipline.
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Publication Requirement: At least one full-length research paper as the lead author, published or accepted in a peer-reviewed journal.
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Host Country: Applicants must propose research in a country different from where they completed their Ph.D.
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Language: Proficiency in English.
Host Countries
HFSP fellowships are available in various countries, including Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, the UK, the USA, and many more. Check the official list for specific countries.
Key Dates for 2025-2026
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Letter of Intent Deadline: May 07, 2025
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Full Proposal Submission Deadline: September 25, 2025
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Notification for Full Proposals: Between mid-August and end of August 2025
How to Apply
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Step 1: Letter of Intent (LOI) Submission
Submit your LOI by May 07, 2025 here, which should include a project summary, personal information, CV, and host supervisor details. -
Step 2: Peer Review
The LOI will be peer-reviewed, and successful applicants will be invited to submit a full proposal. -
Step 3: Full Application Submission
If invited, submit a detailed proposal by September 25, 2025, including a research plan, publication list, and letters of recommendation.
For more detailed information, visit the official HFSP website.
Conclusion
The Human Frontier Science Program Postdoctoral Fellowships provide an exceptional opportunity for early-career scientists to advance their research careers by working on innovative and interdisciplinary projects in life sciences. With comprehensive financial support, including living allowances, research funding, and additional benefits, this fellowship enables fellows to focus on pushing the boundaries of science in a global setting.
If you are passionate about conducting transformative research and are eager to broaden your expertise in a new area of study, the HFSP fellowship could be your ideal pathway. Ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements, carefully follow the application steps, and submit your Letter of Intent and full proposal on time. By securing this prestigious fellowship, you'll gain invaluable experience and mentorship that will shape your future career in scientific research.
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