Commission invests €1.25 billion in researchers and invites them to Choose Europe for Science

The European Commission is increasing its ambition to be a global leader in research with an investment of €1.25 billion in 2025 through the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions. This funding supports innovative research and focuses on developing research talent, international collaboration, and connecting science with society. It provides targeted support for early career researchers and displaced Ukrainian scientists.

In a recent speech at La Sorbonne, President von der Leyen emphasized that Europe remains a continent where scientific freedom is protected and research talent is nurtured. The new funding round puts this vision into action with a continued emphasis on building research capacity in Europe through MSCAs core programs. It also introduces the Choose Europe for Science pilot project, aiming to position Europe as an attractive destination for researchers.

Investing in Research Careers and Global Collaboration

The Commission announces two new funding calls opening later this year:

The MSCA Doctoral Networks (€597.8 million, 28 May-25 November): recruiting and training doctoral candidates in academia and other sectors.

The MSCA & Citizens (€16.3 million, 17 June-22 October): brings science closer to the public through events like European Researchers Night.

MSCA will also allocate an additional €10 million to support displaced Ukrainian researchers through the MSCA4Ukraine fellowship program.

Supporting Research Talent Across Europe

This complements three calls already opened this year:

The MSCA COFUND (€105.6 million, closes 24 June): helps organizations create or enhance their doctoral training and postdoctoral fellowship programs.
The MSCA Staff Exchanges (€97.7 million, closes 8 October): funds R&I collaborative projects, promoting international and intersectoral exchanges.
The MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships (€404.3 million, closes 10 September 2025): helps experienced researchers acquire new skills and develop their careers.

Choose Europe for Science Supports Researchers with Long-term Prospects

With a budget of €22.5 million in 2025, the Choose Europe for Science pilot aims to strengthen research careers in Europe by funding postdoctoral programs. Organizations receive funding for 36 months, followed by a two-year phase funded by the host institution.

The programs are open to researchers worldwide, reinforcing Europes ambition to attract and retain top talent.

Potential applicants can look forward to relevant info sessions leading up to the call, which opens on 1 October.

Background

The Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) is a cornerstone of the European Research Area, promoting researchers careers. For 2021-2027, the MSCA has a budget of over €6.6 billion.

Choose Europe for Science is part of the actions under the Union of Skills to attract, develop, and retain top talent, crucial for innovation and growth.