# Vici - Applied and Engineering Sciences (AES) 2026

**Funder:** NWO
**Budget:** Up to €1,500,000
**Deadline:** 8 September 2026
**Duration:** 5 years
**Consortium:** No
**Frequency:** Annual
**Eligible countries:** NL
**Official call:** https://www.nwo.nl/en/calls/nwo-talentprogramma-vici-aes-2026
**Last verified:** 5 July 2026

> **Recently updated:** catalog cleanup 2026-07-04: deadline aligned with ZonMw sibling row (Vici 2026 round)

## Eligibility & scope

For senior researchers. Dutch knowledge institutions. Allows senior researchers to develop their own innovative line of research and build their own research group in Applied and Engineering Sciences.

## Summary

NWO Vici awards up to €1,500,000 over five years for senior researchers to develop their own innovative research line and build an independent group in applied and engineering sciences. The call is open to experienced researchers at Dutch knowledge institutions. Vici runs annually, with results published in the following year.

## Who should apply

- Senior researchers with an established track record in applied or engineering sciences
- Researchers based at Dutch academic, research institute, or medical centre institutions
- Applicants with a clear vision for building and leading an independent research group
- Projects that advance innovation and application in engineering or applied science domains

## Key dates

- Deadline 8 September 2026
- Single-stage written evaluation followed by committee assessment
- Five-year project duration

## Tips for applicants

- Emphasise the independence and originality of your research vision relative to any prior group or institutional context.
- The Vici panel values feasibility and impact; anchor ambition in a realistic team-building and milestone plan.
- Include clear evidence of your leadership capability and track record of building or mentoring research groups.

## Frequently asked questions

### How much does the NWO Vici grant award?

Up to €1,500,000 over five years per project.

### Who is eligible for NWO Vici?

Senior researchers based at Dutch knowledge institutions (universities, research institutes, medical centres) who have demonstrated an established track record in applied and engineering sciences.

### Is NWO Vici an annual call?

Yes, NWO runs the Vici programme annually with an autumn deadline.

### Can I apply for Vici if I'm building my first independent group?

Vici targets senior researchers with an established track record, not first-time group leaders; earlier NWO schemes like Veni or Vidi are better suited to earlier career stages.

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

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