The “la Caixa†Foundation is actively recruiting top-tier international researchers to pursue their PhDs in Spain and Portugal. Specifically, the INPhINIT Incoming programme offers 30 fellowships for STEM disciplines at accredited centers of excellence. Consequently, fellows receive a highly competitive salary and a personal budget to manage their own research trajectory.
Program Overview
This is one of Europe’s most attractive doctoral schemes, designed to foster mobility and talent. Therefore, it targets researchers who want to work at top institutions like the CNIO (Spanish National Cancer Research Centre) or ICFO (Institute of Photonic Sciences). By joining, fellows benefit from a holistic support system that includes leadership training, public engagement skills, and industry networking.
Key Benefits
The fellowship provides financial stability and professional growth. Specifically, the benefits include:
- Competitive Salary: A total stipend of €122,592 spread over three years (approx. €34,800 gross annual salary + bonuses).
- Research Budget: An additional €3,500 per year for conferences, courses, and materials.
- Mobility: A prize of €3,500 for settling in a new country.
- Training: Mandatory training camps in leadership, career development, and science communication.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, an applicant must meet strict academic and mobility requirements. Crucially, you must not have resided or carried out your main activity in Spain or Portugal for more than 12 months in the last 3 years.
- Nationality: Open to researchers of all nationalities.
- Academic Status: Must hold a degree that grants access to a doctoral programme (usually a Master’s) but not yet have a PhD.
- Language: Must be proficient in English (B2 level or higher).
- Mobility Rule: You must be moving to Spain or Portugal from abroad (Incoming track).
Application Process
- Deadline: January 28, 2026.
- Submission: You must select a project from the project finder tool on the “la Caixa†website and apply directly.
- Requirements: Academic transcripts, three reference letters, and a statement of purpose.
