Breaking News: International researchers in neuroscience now have a high-level European research gateway open for 2026. The Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona has officially invited applications for 8 Postdoctoral scholarship positions at the Institut de Neurociències de la UAB under the prestigious Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) European Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026, funded through Horizon Europe.
This opportunity is designed for highly motivated researchers aiming to build or strengthen an independent research profile in neuroscience while preparing a competitive MSCA European Postdoctoral Fellowship proposal within one of Spain’s leading translational neuroscience environments.
Located in Cerdanyola del Vallès, near Barcelona, the institute offers a dynamic, interdisciplinary research ecosystem focused on advancing prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies for neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders.
About the Host: A Strategic Neuroscience Research Hub in Spain
Established in 2003, the Institut de Neurociències de la UAB (INc-UAB) was created as a collaborative platform bringing together research groups dedicated to understanding the nervous system. The institute promotes scientific synergies across disciplines to accelerate high-impact neuroscience research. Selected postdoctoral researchers will benefit from:
• A strong collaborative research ecosystem
• Advanced laboratory and research infrastructure
• Access to multidisciplinary neuroscience expertise
• An international academic environment
• Structured support for MSCA European Postdoctoral Fellowship proposal development
These positions are temporary and full-time, aligned with the MSCA European Postdoctoral Fellowship framework.
What the Financial Package Covers Under MSCA?
As per the news this funding structure follows the standard MSCA European Postdoctoral Fellowship model under Horizon Europe. While final salary components depend on the official MSCA calculation rules, selected fellows typically receive:
• A competitive monthly living allowance (as defined by MSCA rates)
• Mobility allowance to support international relocation
• Family allowance (if applicable under MSCA eligibility rules)
• Institutional research, training, and networking support
• Full-time employment contract in Spain for the fellowship duration
The MSCA framework ensures structured financial support combined with strong research and career development provisions.
Eligibility Snapshot: Who Can Apply?
This opportunity targets early-stage and recognized researchers planning to submit an MSCA European Postdoctoral Fellowship proposal in 2026. Applicants must:
• Hold a PhD degree (or equivalent) in Neurosciences or a closely related discipline
• Demonstrate an excellent academic and research track record
• Meet the eligibility criteria of the MSCA European Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026
• Qualify as First Stage Researcher (R1) or Recognised Researcher (R2)
• Show strong motivation to develop an independent research trajectory
• Comply with MSCA mobility requirements
Candidates are encouraged to explore available research themes at the institute and identify a host group aligned with their expertise before initiating the application process.
Step-by-Step Path to Apply for the MSCA 2026 Fellowship at INc-UAB
Applying is strategic and research-driven rather than form-based only. Here is the simplified roadmap:
Step 1 – Explore Research Lines
Review available neuroscience research projects and identify a host research group that aligns with your academic background and long-term research goals.
Step 2 – Connect with a Host Supervisor
Initiate contact with the selected research group to discuss project alignment and MSCA proposal feasibility.
Step 3 – Develop Your MSCA Proposal
Work collaboratively with the host team to design a competitive MSCA European Postdoctoral Fellowship proposal under the Horizon Europe framework.
Step 4 – Submit Under MSCA 2026 Call
Finalize and submit the fellowship proposal according to the official MSCA European Postdoctoral Fellowship guidelines and timeline.
Early preparation is strongly recommended due to the competitive nature of MSCA fellowships across Europe.
Why Barcelona and Spain Strengthen Your Research Profile?
Spain continues to position itself as a major scientific and innovation hub within Europe. Barcelona hosts leading universities, research centres, and biotech ecosystems, making it one of the continent’s most vibrant academic environments. For neuroscience researchers, this opportunity combines:
• Access to high-quality translational research
• European research mobility credentials
• Structured career development under Horizon Europe
• Exposure to an international scientific network
With 8 postdoctoral positions available, this call represents a focused yet competitive opportunity for researchers aiming to secure MSCA funding in 2026.
Application Deadline
The last date to apply for the 8 Postdoctoral Positions at the Institut de Neurociències de la UAB under the MSCA European Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026 is 30 April 2026 (00:00 Europe/Paris time).