Funding is more than money; it’s a pathway to independence, creativity, and new opportunities. Begin your exploration now.
A key component of developing a career in independent research is obtaining funding. Knowing your funding options is essential whether you’re planning your next project, trying to extend your current position, or hoping to advance to a faculty position.
An overview of pertinent postdoctoral opportunities in the Netherlands, including both domestic and foreign funding sources, is given in this guide.
Where to Begin
Before submitting an application:
- Consider the kind of project you wish to support: career development, mobility, or research?
- Am I eligible based on nationality, years since PhD and/ or institution?
- Do I need an individual fellowship or funding for a team/project?
Early on in the process, speak with your university’s research support office, grants officer, or supervisor.
Important Dutch Funding Programs
NWO (Dutch Research Council)
The primary national source of funding for scholarly research.
- VENI: For researchers in their early careers (up to three years after receiving their PhD)
- VIDI: For researchers with a few more years of experience
- VICI: For senior researchers creating their own research group
- Open Competition: For project-based funding, often in a collaboration
ZonMw
Centered on healthcare innovation and research. Provides grants for projects and individuals.
KNAW (Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences)
For researchers in the Netherlands, KNAW (Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences) provides travel grants and fellowships.
International & European Opportunities
Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)
Opportunities in Europe and Other Countries
Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) are highly competitive fellowships funded by the EU that promote individual research projects and mobility.
MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships: For scholars relocating to or within Europe with
a focus on mobility, transferable skills, and interdisciplinary research
ERC (European Research Council)
For more seasoned researchers (such as those with an ERC Starting Grant). Prestigious and competitive. High-risk/high-reward concepts and a proven track record are necessary.
Horizon Europe
Cross-national and cross-disciplinary collaborative projects. Seek out open positions related to your area of expertise.
University- and Institute-Based Options
Numerous universities in the Netherlands provide:
- Internal career development awards, bridge funding, or seed grants
- Travel funding, teaching fellowships, or startup funds for early-career researchers
For information on particular opportunities, contact your Graduate School, Faculty Research Office, or Talent Program.
Non-Academic & Hybrid Career Funding
- Innovatiefonds Zorgverzekeraars – Health innovation funding
- NWO KIEM grants: Funding for partnerships with the community
- Industry partnerships: A few businesses provide co-funding for collaborative research between academia and industry.
If you’re considering a career change outside of academia. Look into grants that provide:
- Entrepreneurship
- Mobility across sectors
- Innovation vouchers
Advice for navigating the Funding Landscape
- Start early – Some funding deadlines are only once a year.
- Develop connections – Teamwork will make applications stronger.
- Get support – Seek assistance with writing, budgeting, and strategy from the grant advisor at your institute.
- Don’t self-select out – It’s worthwhile to discuss your options with a mentor, even if you’re not sure.
