NWO

Vici - Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH) 2026

Up to €1,500,000| Deadline: 8 September 2026 (53 days)|5 years

Last verified: 5 July 2026

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This is the current call of the NWO Vici programme. The programme guide covers eligibility, budget, success rate and FAQ across every round.

The NWO Vici award funds senior researchers in the social sciences and humanities to develop innovative research programmes and build independent research groups in the Netherlands, with up to €1,500,000 over five years. The call is open to established scholars based at Dutch knowledge institutions with a track record of research leadership. Vici runs annually and is the senior tier of the NWO Talent Programme.

Details

Funder	NWO
Budget	Up to €1,500,000
Deadline	8 September 2026
Duration	5 years
Consortium	No
Frequency	Annual
Eligible countries	NL

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 Social Sciences and Humanities.

Who Should Apply

•Senior researchers with significant publication and leadership track record
•Researchers hosted at a Dutch academic or research institution
•Researchers in social sciences and humanities disciplines
•Applicants developing a genuinely innovative and independent research direction
•Scholars aiming to establish or expand their own research group

Key Dates

•Deadline 8 September 2026
•Two-stage evaluation (pre-proposal, then full proposal and interview for shortlisted)
•Five-year project duration

Tips for Applicants

✓Vici panels prioritise conceptual innovation and research leadership distinctly separate from prior work, frame your shift, not your continuation.
✓The interview is weighted heavily; prepare to defend feasibility and group-building strategy to a multidisciplinary panel.
✓Host institution commitment to infrastructure and PhD student support strengthens your implementation score.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is an NWO Vici grant?

Up to €1,500,000 for a five-year research project.

Who can apply for NWO Vici in social sciences and humanities?

Senior researchers with a strong publication and research leadership record, hosted at a Dutch knowledge institution.

Is NWO Vici recurring?

Yes, NWO runs Vici annually across its domains, including the social sciences and humanities track.

What is the deadline for NWO Vici SSH 2026?

The deadline is 8 September 2026.

Can I apply for NWO Vici if I am not based in the Netherlands?

No, you must be hosted at a Dutch knowledge institution to be eligible for Vici.

nwovicisenior-researchersocial-scienceshumanitiesnetherlandsresearch-group-leadershiptalent-programme

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