# EMBO Young Investigator Programme

**Funder:** EMBO
**Budget:** €15,000 + up to €10,000 per year
**Deadline:** 1 April 2026
**Duration:** 4 years
**Consortium:** No
**Application:** Single stage
**Frequency:** Annual
**Next round:** 2027-04
**Official call:** https://www.embo.org/press-releases/twenty-eight-group-leaders-become-embo-young-investigators/
**Last verified:** 14 June 2026

## Summary

The EMBO Young Investigator Programme provides €15,000 upfront plus up to €10,000 per year for four years to support early-career researchers establishing independent groups across Europe. The call targets researchers within five years of their first independent position, working in life sciences. EMBO runs this programme annually with an April deadline.

## Who should apply

- Researchers within 5 years of first independent position
- Early-stage group leaders in European institutions or EMBO member labs
- Life sciences researchers establishing new research directions
- Scientists seeking support to consolidate independence and secure group funding

## Key dates

- Deadline: 1 April 2026
- Single-stage application and review
- Four-year support period

## Tips for applicants

- This award is recognition-based; focus your case on novelty and potential rather than preliminary data volume.
- Network within EMBO if possible, panel familiarity with your work (through EMBO courses, conferences, or memberships) strengthens your profile.
- The budget is modest but the EMBO stamp carries weight for follow-on funding; emphasise how YIP seed support will enable a larger grant.

## Frequently asked questions

### How much does the EMBO Young Investigator Programme pay?

€15,000 upfront plus up to €10,000 per year for four years, for a total of up to €55,000.

### Who is eligible for the EMBO Young Investigator Programme?

Researchers within five years of their first independent position, based at a European institution or EMBO member laboratory.

### Is the EMBO Young Investigator Programme recurring?

Yes, EMBO runs this programme annually with an April deadline.

### Can I apply if I am not yet independent?

No, the programme targets researchers who have already established their first independent position, such as junior group leaders or early tenure-track fellows.

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Source: [The Great Grantsby](https://grantsby.eu/grants/embo-embo-young-investigator-programme-2026-04) — EU grant monitoring for academic researchers. Always verify details on the funder's website before applying.