# ZonMw Rubicon 2026-1

**Funder:** ZonMw
**Budget:** Postdoctoral research abroad
**Deadline:** 24 March 2026 (Deadline March 24, 2026 at 14:00. For recently graduated PhDs to gain experience at foreign institutes.)
**Duration:** 2 years
**Consortium:** No
**Application:** full-proposal
**TRL:** 1-2
**Frequency:** triannual
**Next round:** 2026-08
**Official call:** https://www.zonmw.nl/en/subsidies
**Last verified:** 7 June 2026

## Summary

ZonMw Rubicon funds recently graduated PhD researchers to gain international research experience through two-year postdoctoral positions at foreign institutes, with budgets from €60,000 to €250,000. The programme is targeted at early-career Dutch researchers seeking to develop independence and networks abroad before returning to the Netherlands. Rubicon runs three times per year, offering multiple entry points for career timing.

## Who should apply

- Recently graduated PhD researchers (Dutch nationals or employed in the Netherlands)
- Early-career scientists seeking 2-year postdoctoral fellowships at international institutions
- Researchers planning to return to the Dutch research system after abroad experience
- All research fields eligible

## Key dates

- Deadline 24 March 2026 at 14:00 (Dutch time)
- Full-proposal single-stage evaluation
- Two-year project duration

## Tips for applicants

- Rubicon reviews your host institute and mentor quality carefully—secure a strong foreign supervisor letter before submission.
- Budget variability (€60–250K) depends on discipline and host country; align your budget narrative to your specific international placement costs.
- Emphasize how your time abroad will strengthen your independence and competitiveness for future Dutch group-leader funding on return.

## Frequently asked questions

### How much funding does the ZonMw Rubicon grant provide?

Between €60,000 and €250,000 over two years, depending on research area and host country costs.

### Who is eligible for the ZonMw Rubicon 2026-1 call?

Recently graduated PhD researchers who are Dutch nationals or employed in the Netherlands, seeking postdoctoral experience at a foreign institute.

### What is the deadline for ZonMw Rubicon 2026-1?

The deadline is 24 March 2026 at 14:00 (Dutch time).

### How often does ZonMw run the Rubicon call?

Three times per year, with the next expected round in August 2026.

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Source: [The Great Grantsby](https://grantsby.eu/grants/zonmw-rubicon-2026-1) — EU grant monitoring for academic researchers. Always verify details on the funder's website before applying.