What are MSCA Actions
The Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) are the European Union's flagship programme for supporting the training, mobility and professional development of researchers. With a budget of over 6.6 billion euros under Horizon Europe (2021-2027), MSCA funds research excellence regardless of scientific field.
The programme honours the double Nobel Prize-winning physicist and chemist Marie Sklodowska-Curie and aims to enhance creativity and innovation through cross-border, cross-sector and interdisciplinary mobility.
6.6 bn
Budget 2021-2027
65,000+
Researchers funded
130+
Participating countries
Action Types
Doctoral Networks (DN)
Doctoral Training Networks
Funding for the creation of doctoral training networks that combine research excellence with rich opportunities for professional development. DNs train creative, entrepreneurial and innovative researchers capable of addressing current and future challenges.
- check_circle Duration: 3-4 years
- check_circle Minimum partners: 3 from different countries
- check_circle Funding: up to 360 person-months
Postdoctoral Fellowships (PF)
Postdoctoral Research Fellowships
Individual fellowships for experienced researchers who wish to acquire new skills through advanced training, international and intersectoral mobility. Two types are available: European Fellowships (EF) and Global Fellowships (GF).
- check_circle Duration: 1-2 years (EF), 2-3 years (GF)
- check_circle Criterion: PhD or 4+ years of research experience
- check_circle Success rate: ~15%
Staff Exchanges (SE)
Staff Exchange Programme
Funding for international and intersectoral staff exchanges between academic institutions, research centres and businesses. Enhances knowledge transfer and development of long-term collaborations.
- check_circle Project duration: up to 4 years
- check_circle Minimum partners: 3 from different countries
- check_circle Secondments: 1-12 months per person
COFUND
Co-funded Programmes
Co-funding of regional, national and international programmes for the training and professional development of researchers. The aim is to spread MSCA best practices at national level.
- check_circle Duration: 3-5 years
- check_circle Funding: 50% from EU
- check_circle Doctoral & Postdoctoral programmes
MSCA and Citizens
European Researchers' Night
Funding for the organisation of the European Researchers' Night and related events that bring researchers and the public together. The aim is to raise awareness about the importance of research and attract new talent to science.
- check_circle Duration: 2 years
- check_circle Pan-European participation
- check_circle Focus on science communication
Why Choose MSCA
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Competitive Funding
Attractive salaries and allowances that fully cover researchers' needs, including mobility and family allowances.
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International Mobility
Opportunity to work at leading research centres worldwide and develop an international network of collaborators.
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Professional Development
Comprehensive training programmes that include transferable skills, project management and entrepreneurship.
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Interdisciplinary Approach
Encouragement of collaboration between different scientific fields to address complex challenges.
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Industry Connection
Opportunities to collaborate with the private sector and gain experience outside the academic environment.
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Prestige and Recognition
The "MSCA label" is an internationally recognised mark of excellence that significantly enhances any researcher's CV.