ECTRIMS Postdoctoral Research Training Fellowship 2026 , Europe (Funded MS Research Fellowship)
The ECTRIMS Postdoctoral Research Training Fellowship Programme is a prestigious, competitive opportunity designed to support early-career neuroscientists and physicians conducting advanced research in multiple sclerosis (MS). Offered by ECTRIMS (European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis)—the world’s largest professional organisation dedicated to MS—the programme aims to strengthen global MS research capacity through high-quality, mentored training in Europe.
This fellowship promotes international collaboration, scientific exchange, and innovation across basic, clinical, and applied MS research.
Host Location
- Research training must take place in Europe
- Host institutions may include:
- European universities
- Research institutes
- Clinical laboratories or hospitals
Applicants must not have previously worked at the proposed host institution or under the proposed mentor.
Degree Level
- Postdoctoral level
- Open to researchers holding:
- MD
- PhD
- ScD
- Or equivalent doctoral qualification
The fellowship is suitable for young neuroscientists, clinician-scientists, and physicians at an early stage of their research careers.
Available Subjects
Research must be directly related to Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and may include, but is not limited to:
- Neuroscience and Neuroimmunology
- Clinical MS Research
- Translational and Applied MS Research
- Neuroimaging (MRI in MS)
- MS Clinical Trials
- MS Treatment and Care
- NMOSD and MOGAD-related research
- Nursing and Allied Health Professional (AHP) research
All scientific disciplines relevant to MS are eligible.
Benefits
Fellowship Duration & Funding
- 1-year or 2-year funded fellowship
- Provides structured, mentored research training
- Fellows and mentors must submit:
- Annual progress reports
- Financial accounting reports
Funding levels vary depending on duration and host country regulations.
Eligible Nationalities
- Open to applicants of all nationalities
- No citizenship restrictions
- International researchers are welcome, provided training is conducted in Europe
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants for the ECTRIMS Postdoctoral Research Fellowship must:
- Hold an MD, PhD, ScD, or equivalent
- Be an early-career scientist or physician
- Propose a research project related to multiple sclerosis
- Conduct training in a European laboratory or clinic
- Not have worked previously at the proposed host institute or with the proposed mentor
- Submit required documents from:
- The applicant
- Proposed mentor
- Host training institute
- Professional referees
- Ensure the proposed mentor:
- Is not listed on more than one application per cycle
Institutions may support multiple applications, but award limits apply per institution and category.
Application Procedure
The ECTRIMS fellowship application process includes:
- Identifying a suitable European host institution and mentor
- Preparing a research proposal related to MS
- Submitting required documents from:
- Candidate
- Mentor
- Host institution
- Referees
- Completing the online application during the official submission period
- Awaiting review by ECTRIMS selection committees
Note: Applications are evaluated based on academic excellence, research innovation, and potential impact on MS research.
Important Dates
- Application submission periods vary each year
- Applicants are typically informed of results several months after submission
- Candidates should monitor official ECTRIMS announcements for updated timelines
About ECTRIMS
- The world’s largest professional organisation dedicated to MS research and treatment
- Facilitates:
- Global scientific collaboration
- Clinical training
- Educational events and congresses
- High-impact MS research initiatives
- Plays a leading role in international MS guidelines and clinical trials
Why Apply for the ECTRIMS Fellowship?
- Access to top European MS research centres
- Mentored training by leading MS experts
- International recognition and career advancement
- Contribution to improving MS treatment, diagnosis, and patient care
- Strong professional networking through the ECTRIMS community
