Every independent research career reaches a moment when one opportunity can make a real difference.

Perhaps you have a bold idea that needs the right support. Perhaps you are building your own research group and looking for the resources to take your science further. Or perhaps you are ready for the next step but have been waiting for the right opportunity.

The 2026 FEBS Excellence Awards are now open for applications.

Each award provides €100,000 over three years to support ambitious research in the molecular life sciences, helping outstanding early career group leaders strengthen their independent research programmes through the purchase of research equipment and consumables.

If you are an early career group leader working in a country with a FEBS Constituent Society, this could be your opportunity.

You may be eligible if you:

✅ Have obtained your PhD within the past eight years (career breaks are taken into account).

✅ Have held a salaried group leader position for at least one year before applying.

✅ Are a member of a FEBS Constituent Society.

✅ Have gained at least two years of research experience in a different country before your current position.

Behind every successful application is a researcher with an idea worth pursuing. If that sounds like you, we encourage you to apply.

📅 Applications are open from 15 June until 15 August 2026.

Before starting your application, please read the eligibility criteria, Excellence Awards guidelines and  FAQs page carefully.

We look forward to discovering the next generation of researchers whose work will shape the future of molecular life sciences.