Amsterdam Public Health (APH) research institute launches the Strategic Research Call 2026–2027, inviting research proposals that align with APH’s strategic goals and research programs. This round offers 4 two-year Postdoc Fellowships. The scheme supports talented postdoctoral researchers in continuing their scientific careers while contributing to APH’s mission.
The scope of the research projects must be linked to at least one of APH’s three core values as described in the APH Strategic Plan 2024–2027:
- Sustainable scientific excellence – research integrity and sustainability for planet and people.
- Diversity, Equity & Inclusion – research fostering inclusiveness and reducing health disparities.
- Engaging partnerships – collaboration across sectors, disciplines, and stakeholders.
Who can apply?
Postdoctoral researchers affiliated with APH (PhD defense has taken place up to 8 years before the deadline of the call, i.e. the PhD defense has taken place on or after October 31st 2017; extension arrangement possible).
- Applicants must hold a temporary position at VU or Amsterdam UMC, or a temporary/permanent position at Amsterdam UMC Research BV.
- Assistant professors and PIs are not eligible.
What can you apply for?
The 2026/2027 scheme offers room for 4 two-year Postdoc Fellowships. The total budget that an application for a Postdoc Fellowship may propose amounts to a maximum of €200.000.- spread over 2 years, of which a maximum of €100.000 (50%) can be financed by APH in this call. The grant covers salary costs. The remaining salary costs should be matched by the applicant’s department or an external financial partner. Additionally, a bench fee (up to €6,000 per year) and a Societal Impact budget (€10,000, single allocation) are available.
When to apply?
Applications can only be submitted by a postdoctoral researcher primarily participating in APH with the approval of the head of department and if applicable other partners involved. Deadline for submitting applications is October 31, 2025 (12:00 hrs). Only proposals that meet the eligibility and quality criteria will be considered; from these, four projects will be selected for funding through a lottery. Decisions on grants will be announced December 1, 2025 latest. The final starting date of the granted research projects is March 1st, 2026.
How to apply?
Applications must be submitted by email to aph@amsterdamumc.nl. Applications include: A completely filled out and signed Application form and the following attachments:
- (A) Motivation letter by the candidate (max. 1 A4), specifying the candidate’s expertise and competencies and the link to the proposed project.
- (B) Personal development plan (max. 1 A4), specifying the candidate’s personal development points and a training plan.
- (C) Research proposal (max. 2 A4), containing a work plan, timeline, budget plan and publication plan for at least 3 publications (or 2 publications and 1 societal impact product).
- (D) Letter of intent by head of department hosting the fellowship.
- (E) Letter of intent by external partner organization(s) financially involved in the research project (if applicable)
- (F) Extension arrangement form (if applicable)
Application form
Attachments (templates)
If applicable:
Questions
In case you have any questions, please send an email to aph@amsterdamumc.nl