The Hungarian Academy of Sciences (MTA) has opened Call 2 of the Momentum MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme, offering a prestigious opportunity for early‑career researchers to conduct high‑impact research within top Lendület (Momentum) research groups in Hungary. This programme mirrors the standards of Marie Skłodowska‑Curie Actions while providing stable funding and a rich research environment.
Fellowship Benefits
| Category | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Salary | €3,522/month (gross) | Paid under Hungary’s compulsory salary system |
| Mobility Allowance | €150/month | For researchers relocating to Hungary |
| Relocation Allowance | Up to €3,600 (one‑time) | Supports international transition |
| Family Allowance | €300/month | For eligible dependents |
| Special Needs Support | Case‑based | Requires justification and approval |
The fellowship includes a 12–36‑month employment contract with full social security coverage.
Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| PhD Degree | Must be awarded before the application deadline |
| Experience | 0–8 years of research experience after PhD |
| Mobility Rule | Cannot have lived/worked in Hungary >12 months in the last 36 months |
| Nationality | Open to applicants from all countries |
| English Proficiency | CEFR C1 level (spoken & written) required |
Special consideration is extended to researchers with refugee status or those returning after career breaks.
Application Package
All documents must be submitted in English in PDF format.
| Document | Description |
|---|---|
| Application Form | Completed via the official portal |
| Research Proposal | Structured project description (max. 5 pages) |
| Ethical Self‑Assessment | Required for all proposals involving ethical aspects |
| CV + Publications | Full academic record |
| PhD Certificate / Proof of Award | Mandatory |
| English Language Proof | CEFR C1 or equivalent certificate |
| Supervisor Declaration | Signed by the hosting Lendület group leader |
| Identity Document | Passport or national ID copy |
Evaluation & Selection
Applications undergo a transparent, merit‑based review that assesses:
- Scientific excellence
- Feasibility of the proposed research
- Host group suitability
- Candidate’s potential for research independence
Shortlisted candidates may be invited for online interviews before final decisions.
Important Deadline
Application Deadline: 31 January 2026 (24:00 CET)
Late submissions are not accepted.
Why This Fellowship Matters
The Momentum MSCA Programme offers researchers a rare chance to:
- Join top‑tier research groups in Hungary
- Build international networks
- Access competitive funding and institutional support
- Strengthen their scientific independence and career prospects
This call is ideal for researchers aiming to establish themselves through high‑quality postdoctoral work within a strong European research ecosystem.
Further Information
For complete guidelines and application portal access, refer to the official call documentation provided by the Hungarian Academy of Sciences.
FAQs
Who can apply?
Researchers of any nationality who hold a PhD and have 0–8 years of postdoctoral experience, provided they meet the mobility rule.
Can I apply if I previously worked in Hungary?
Yes. You are eligible as long as you have not lived or worked in Hungary for more than 12 months within the last 36 months.
Is English proficiency required?
Yes. Applicants must provide certified proof of CEFR C1 level proficiency in both spoken and written English.
Do I need a confirmed host before applying?
Yes. A Lendület (Momentum) research group must agree to host you, and a signed supervisor declaration must be included in the application.
How long does the fellowship last?
The duration ranges from 12 to 36 months, depending on the project’s scope and approval.
Is the relocation allowance guaranteed?
Eligible international applicants can receive a one-time relocation allowance of up to €3,600.
Are secondments allowed during the fellowship?
Yes. Short secondments of 1–3 months to partner institutions may be included and are coordinated with the host group.
What happens if my application is incomplete?
Incomplete or incorrectly submitted documents result in the application not being evaluated. All documents must be in PDF format and uploaded before the deadline.