🇨🇭
Swiss Confederation (SERI/SBFI)·Switzerland

Swiss Government Excellence Research Scholarship (Postdoctoral)

Fully FundedPostdoc6-12 monthsAug–Dec (varies by country)

The Swiss Government Excellence Research Scholarship supports early-career researchers to carry out a one-year research project at a Swiss higher education institution or recognised research institute. Open to applicants from over 180 countries with a master's degree, it provides CHF 2,450/month and covers health insurance. An academic supervisor at a Swiss institution is required.

Popular Participating Universities

ETH ZurichETH Zurich
EPFLEPFL
University of ZurichUniversity of Zurich

Quick info

Application status

Aug–Dec (varies by country)

DAAD deadlines vary per program. Check the official site for the current intake window.

Switzerland
Postdoc
6-12 months
All academic fields including medicine
Open to: Over 180 countries (country-specific quotas apply)
Apply on official site

Opens the provider's official website

Info sourced from official providers. Always verify deadlines, requirements, and eligibility directly before applying.

What you get

  • Monthly stipend of CHF 2,450
  • Flight allowance (lump sum)
  • Health insurance (SwissCare) contribution
  • Free accommodation search assistance
  • No tuition fees (research scholarship)
Monthly: CHF 2,450/month (approx. USD 2,750) / Duration: 6–12 months

Requirements

First degree: Required
Professional experience: not specified
Country restriction: Over 180 countries (country-specific quotas apply)

Detailed requirements

  • - Master's degree or equivalent completed by 31 July 2027
  • - Date of birth after 31 December 1991
  • - Detailed research plan with timeline and milestones
  • - Must have a letter of support from an academic host professor in Switzerland
  • - Priority given to applicants who have not previously studied or researched in Switzerland
  • - If already residing in Switzerland: entry date must not be earlier than 1 August 2026
  • - Application submitted to Swiss diplomatic representation in home country

Who can apply

Early-career researchers who have completed a master's degree seeking a one-year research stay at a Swiss university or research institute. Available to over 180 countries.

Fields of study

All academic fields including medicine

Application window

Aug–Dec (varies by country)

Dates are based on data sourced from official providers (2025-2026 cycle). Deadlines may shift between intake years. Always verify on the official website before applying.

Important dates

Applications open: 20 August 2026 (for 2027–2028)
Deadline: varies by country, typically September – December
Scholarship start: 1 September 2027
Duration: 6–12 months (no extensions)

How to apply

  1. 1Step 1: Identify a Swiss university or research institute and a potential academic supervisor
  2. 2Step 2: Contact the professor and obtain a letter of support (including their short CV)
  3. 3Step 3: Prepare a detailed research plan with timeline and milestones
  4. 4Step 4: Gather all documents: CV, motivation letter, transcripts, degree certificates, letters of recommendation
  5. 5Step 5: Submit application to the Swiss Embassy or Consulate in your home country
  6. 6Step 6: Applications are evaluated by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF)
  7. 7Step 7: Results typically announced by May; scholarship starts 1 September