Novo Nordisk Foundation–Funded Postdoctoral Fellowship in Agriculture and Plant Science 2026

The Novo Nordisk Foundation is inviting applications for its Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme for outstanding researchers working in plant science, agriculture, and food biotechnology.

The fellowship aims to support early-career researchers in establishing an independent research profile while conducting innovative research projects that address global challenges related to sustainable agriculture, food production, environmental sustainability, and climate change.

Successful applicants will carry out their fellowship at a university or non-profit research institution in one of the Nordic countries: Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, or Sweden. The programme provides funding of up to DKK 3.3 million for projects lasting up to three years.

Benefits

The fellowship offers:

• Funding of up to DKK 3.3 million for a research project lasting up to three years.
• Flexible funding periods ranging from one to three years.
• The opportunity to lead an independent research project at a leading university or non-profit research institution in the Nordic region.
• Support for developing an independent academic career and strengthening research leadership.
• The possibility of conducting part of the research at an institution outside the Nordic countries.
• Opportunities to build international collaborations with leading researchers and research institutions.
• Funding for innovative, high-risk basic research projects with the potential for significant scientific impact.

The fellowship recipient will be responsible for:

• Conducting an independent research project in plant science, agriculture, or food biotechnology.
• Following the approved research plan, timeline, and budget.
• Carrying out experiments, analysing data, and documenting scientific findings.
• Collaborating with researchers and supervisors at the host institution.
• Participating in scientific activities, seminars, and conferences related to the project.
• Publishing research findings in peer-reviewed journals and presenting them at academic events.
• Preparing the required scientific and financial reports throughout the fellowship period.
• Complying with research ethics standards and the policies of the host institution.
• Contributing to the development of solutions that support more sustainable agriculture and food production.
• Building a professional research network that supports academic development and scientific independence.

Applicants must meet one of the following requirements:

• Hold a PhD or an equivalent qualification awarded within the five years preceding the application deadline; or
• Be currently enrolled in a PhD programme and expected to defend their dissertation before 1 April 2027.

Applicants must also:

• Secure a host institution in one of the Nordic countries.
• Obtain an official host confirmation letter from the selected institution.
• Submit letters of support from any additional institutions participating in the project.
• Propose an original research project in plant science, agriculture, or food biotechnology.
• Demonstrate that the project aims to advance sustainability and develop long-term scientific solutions.
• Ensure that the proposed research is primarily based on life science disciplines.

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