About the opportunity
The Max Weber Programme (MWP) at the European University Institute (EUI) is a unique postdoctoral programme in the historical, humanities, and social sciences. Open to applicants worldwide within 5 years of completing their PhD, the highly selective programme hosts around 65 Fellows annually across various academic units (Economics, History, Law, Political and Social Sciences, Robert Schuman Centre, or Florence School of Transnational Governance). Fellowships last 1 or 2 years (exceptionally 3). The programme provides comprehensive training and support in all aspects of an academic career, including publishing, teaching, and applying for grants, with an outstanding placement record in top global institutions.
Funding and benefits
- Monthly grant of 2,500 EUR
- Family allowances (when appropriate)
- Health insurance coverage
- Personal mission and research fund of 1,500 EUR
- Possibility of applying for a Part-time assistant professor contract in the second year with approximately 850 EUR net monthly remuneration
- Parental leave policy
- Access to superb EUI research facilities, including an outstanding library and shared working space
- Comprehensive training and support in academic career development (publishing, presenting, teaching, and grant writing)
Who can apply?
- Open to applicants from anywhere in the world, regardless of nationality
- Must be within 5 years from the completion of their PhD
- Preference is given to applicants who have only just completed their doctorate and have not had a postdoctoral fellowship before
- Candidates from Widening countries are highly encouraged to apply
When to apply
- Application deadline: October 16, 2026, at 14:00 CEST
- Programme start date: September 1, 2027
How to apply
- Apply online through the official EUI Osiris application portal
Additional information
- The annual acceptance rate is less than 2%
- A cohort typically consists of around 65 Fellows across different academic units
- Additional grants funded by governments/foundations in Finland, Germany, Greece, Poland, and Japan are automatically considered for eligible applicants
- Suitable applicants of any nationality may also apply for an additional year at the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies in Geneva (IHEID)
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Early-career researchers within five years of their PhD completion.
- Scholars in humanities and social sciences seeking a prestigious, highly selective residential fellowship.
- Applicants looking for comprehensive career development training, including publishing and grant writing support.
What should you think carefully about?
- The acceptance rate is extremely competitive at less than 2%.
- The role is strictly on-site in Fiesole, Italy, requiring relocation for the duration of the fellowship.
- While a monthly grant is provided, applicants should verify if the financial package meets their specific cost-of-living requirements for Italy.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This fellowship is an ideal bridge for recent PhD graduates aiming to transition into top-tier academic positions. With its focus on career development and an outstanding placement record, it provides the necessary time and resources to build a robust publication record and secure future faculty roles.
Our take
This is a premier opportunity for high-achieving early-career scholars in the humanities and social sciences. Those who have not yet held a postdoctoral fellowship are particularly encouraged to apply.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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