# NWO Rubicon 2026-2

**Funder:** NWO
**Budget:** Salary + bench fee abroad, up to 24 months
**Deadline:** 1 September 2026 (Round 2026-2 closes 1 Sep 2026 14:00 CEST; round 2026-3 closes 1 Dec 2026)
**Duration:** Up to 24 months
**Consortium:** No — individual researcher + host institution abroad
**Application:** Single-stage
**Frequency:** Three rounds in 2026 (Mar/Sep/Dec); two rounds/year from 2027
**Next round:** 2026-12
**Eligible countries:** NL
**Official call:** https://www.nwo.nl/en/calls/rubicon-2026-2
**Last verified:** 18 June 2026

## Eligibility & scope

NWO/ZonMw Rubicon funds researchers who obtained their PhD in the Netherlands to gain international experience at a research institution abroad. Outgoing-mobility scheme: applicant origin is NL, host institution is outside NL.

## Summary

NWO Rubicon funds researchers who completed their PhD in the Netherlands to gain international research experience abroad for up to 24 months, with salary and research bench fees covering €100,000-€250,000. The scheme targets early-career researchers seeking to build independence outside the Netherlands before returning to establish themselves in Dutch academia. Rubicon runs three annual rounds, with applications evaluated on scientific quality and career-development potential.

## Who should apply

- Researchers who completed their PhD at a Dutch institution within the past few years
- Applicants with a confirmed postdoctoral position at a host institution outside the Netherlands
- Early-career researchers building independence before establishing themselves in Dutch academia
- All research disciplines eligible via NWO/ZonMw

## Key dates

- Deadline for round 2026-2: 1 September 2026 at 14:00 CEST
- Next deadline round 2026-3: 1 December 2026
- Single-stage application process, up to 24 months fellowship duration

## Tips for applicants

- Rubicon is an outgoing-mobility scheme: you must have a confirmed host institution abroad before applying, a letter of commitment from the supervisor strengthens your case.
- The panel prioritises career development and independence; frame your time abroad as a stepping stone to your own research line back in the Netherlands, not just a lab role.
- Apply in the round that fits your timeline, with three rounds per year in 2026, you have flexibility to align with your host institution's onboarding dates.

## Frequently asked questions

### How much does the NWO Rubicon fellowship pay?

Rubicon covers a salary and bench fee abroad, with a total budget of €100,000-€250,000 over the fellowship period.

### Who is eligible for NWO Rubicon?

Researchers who obtained their PhD at a Dutch institution and have a position at a host institution outside the Netherlands.

### How long is an NWO Rubicon fellowship?

Up to 24 months of postdoctoral research abroad.

### How often does NWO Rubicon have a deadline?

Three rounds in 2026 (March, September, December); two rounds per year from 2027 onwards.

### Do I need a host institution confirmed before applying for Rubicon?

Yes, Rubicon is an outgoing-mobility scheme, so you must have a confirmed position and supervisor commitment at your host institution abroad.

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Source: [The Great Grantsby](https://grantsby.eu/grants/nwo-rubicon-2026-2) — EU grant monitoring for academic researchers. Always verify details on the funder's website before applying.