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ZonMw
Rubicon 2026-1
14:00:00 CET (2 PM sharp)
Last verified:
The ZonMw Rubicon 2026-1 call funds early-career researchers to pursue ambitious, independent research projects in the Netherlands, with grants up to €3,145,000 over 12–24 months. Researchers in any field can apply, provided they are hosted at a Dutch academic or healthcare institution and have demonstrated research independence. Rubicon is ZonMw's flagship early-career programme, running annually to nurture the next generation of Dutch research leaders.
Details
| Funder | ZonMw |
| Budget | €3,145,000 |
| Duration | 12-24 months |
| Consortium | No |
| Application | Single stage |
| Frequency | Annual |
| Career stage | Early-career opportunity |
Who Should Apply
- •Early-career researchers establishing independent research groups
- •Researchers hosted at Dutch universities, medical centres, or research institutes
- •Applicants with a strong track record of publications and research independence
- •Projects across all research fields and disciplines
Key Dates
- •Deadline: 24 March 2026 at 14:00 CET (2 PM sharp)
- •Single-stage application process
- •Project duration: 12–24 months
Tips for Applicants
- ✓Emphasise research independence and your vision beyond your PhD or postdoc supervisor's work — ZonMw panels screen explicitly for this.
- ✓Structure your 12–24 month timeline realistically; overambition in a compressed timeframe weakens scoring.
- ✓Include institutional support letters confirming research space and resources; ZonMw requires concrete host commitment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much funding does the ZonMw Rubicon grant offer?
Up to €3,145,000 per project. The actual budget depends on your proposal scope and is negotiated within the single-stage review process.
Who is eligible for ZonMw Rubicon?
Early-career researchers hosted at Dutch academic or healthcare institutions, across all research fields. You must demonstrate research independence.
What is the deadline for ZonMw Rubicon 2026-1?
24 March 2026 at 14:00 CET (2 PM sharp).
How long is a ZonMw Rubicon project?
Projects run for 12–24 months, allowing flexibility to match your research scope and milestones.
Summary generated by AI based on published grant information. Always verify details on the funder's website.
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