FWO
Fonds Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek – Vlaanderen (Research Foundation Flanders)
FWO funds fundamental and strategic basic research in Flanders (Belgium). Key schemes: Junior Postdoctoral Fellowship (0-3 years post-PhD), Senior Postdoctoral Fellowship (3-12 years), Research Projects, and Odysseus (international brain gain).
Evaluation Criteria
- 1Scientific quality of the research project
- 2Quality and track record of the researcher (relative to career stage)
- 3Feasibility and methodology
- 4For fellowships: development potential and career perspective
- 5For projects: innovative character and potential for breakthrough
Proposal Structure
- •Research proposal (varies by scheme, typically 5-10 pages)
- •Detailed CV with complete publication list
- •Budget plan
- •Ethical considerations form
- •Letter of support from host institution
Common Mistakes
- ×Not adapting your track record expectations to career stage (FWO is explicit about this)
- ×Applying outside your eligibility window — check dates carefully
- ×Not demonstrating connection to a Flemish research institution
- ×Weak methodology section — FWO panels are highly expert
- ×For Odysseus: not convincingly explaining why you're returning to/choosing Flanders
Success Tips
- ✓Junior postdoc: focus on your potential and independence vision
- ✓Senior postdoc: demonstrate group leadership capability
- ✓FWO values international experience — highlight it
- ✓Include a realistic work plan with clear milestones
- ✓The interview matters — prepare with colleagues who know the FWO system
Frequently Asked Questions
+Who is eligible for an FWO Junior Postdoctoral Fellowship?
Researchers with a PhD awarded no more than 3 years before the application deadline (with extensions for career interruptions). You must be affiliated with a Flemish university or research institute for the fellowship duration.
+What is the difference between FWO Junior and Senior Postdoctoral Fellowships?
Junior Postdoctoral Fellowship targets researchers 0–3 years post-PhD and funds 3 years of research. Senior Postdoctoral Fellowship is for 3–12 years post-PhD and funds 3 years, aimed at consolidating independence before applying for a permanent position.
+What does FWO funding cover?
FWO fellowships cover the researcher's salary (full employment at the host institution) plus a bench fee for consumables and travel. Research Projects fund personnel, equipment, and running costs up to ~€400K over 4 years.
+Do I need to be affiliated with a Flemish institution to apply for FWO?
Yes. For individual fellowships, you must hold your appointment at a Flemish university or research institute. For Research Projects, the main applicant must be employed at a Flemish knowledge institution, though international collaborators are welcome.
Useful Links
Ready to find matching grants?
Find my next grant →