Researchers are choosing Europe because it offers more than funding: it offers trust. Trust in institutions, in freedom of inquiry, and in long-term support for science. Excellence thrives where it is enabled, protected and shared—and Europe provides that environment. This is why the 2025 call for Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Postdoctoral Fellowships drew 17,058 applications from researchers worldwide, a 64.6% increase compared to 2024. This makes it the most popular call in more than four decades of EU research programmes.
Those fellowships allow researchers to lead their own projects with host institutions, learn new skills, and build international partnerships. Around 1,650 top proposals will secure funding, with approximately €404.3 million earmarked for the initiative.
Submissions came from organizations across Europe and associate countries, plus researchers planning stints at top global institutions. The impressive response underlines the global reach of the programme and Europe’s standing as a leading hub for research and innovation.
Startups, Research and Innovation Commissioner Ekaterina Zaharieva (pictured) said: “The ‘Choose Europe for Science’ effect is clearly taking hold. The MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships application increase is the latest proof. The high number of proposals reflects Europe’s growing reputation as a safe and stable home for research. I am eager to see how the selected projects will continue to advance research and innovation in Europe and beyond.”
More information is available on the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions website. Information on the countries of origin of the researchers will be provided in the coming days.
