National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC)

The NSFC Invitational Visiting Fellowship for European Scholars (IVFES) 2027 is now accepting applications from qualified researchers across Europe. Sponsored by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC), this prestigious research fellowship promotes long-term scientific collaboration between European institutions and Chinese universities and research organizations.

The fellowship provides project funding of up to RMB 300,000 to support international academic mobility, collaborative research, workshops, and research-related travel. Unlike traditional scholarships, this programme funds joint research projects rather than providing a personal stipend, making it an excellent opportunity for researchers seeking international partnerships.

Fellowship Overview

Available Research Fields

The fellowship welcomes applications from researchers working in a broad range of scientific disciplines, including:

• Natural Sciences
• Engineering
• Applied Sciences
• Technology
• STEM Disciplines
• Interdisciplinary Research

Applicants must propose research that aligns with an active NSFC-funded research project hosted by a Chinese institution.

Fellowship Benefits

Selected projects can receive funding of up to RMB 300,000 to support collaborative research activities between European and Chinese institutions.

Funding may be used for:

• International round-trip airfare
• Domestic travel within China
• Accommodation expenses
• Living costs during research visits
• Workshops and scientific seminars
• Joint research activities
• Academic collaboration expenses

The programme supports research visits over a two-year period, and successful fellows are required to spend at least 30 days in China each year.

Eligible Nationalities

Applications are open to researchers employed at academic or research institutions located in Europe.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must satisfy the following requirements:

• Hold a PhD degree.
• Be employed full-time at a university or research institution in Europe.
• Be under 45 years of age as of 1 January 2026.
• Have research interests that match an active NSFC-funded project.
• Submit a joint application with a Chinese research partner.

The Chinese host researcher must:

• Hold an active NSFC-funded project.
• Have a project with at least three years of approved duration.
• Receive institutional support for the proposed collaboration.

Applicants who do not yet have a Chinese research partner are encouraged to establish academic collaborations well before the application deadline.

Required Documents

Applicants should prepare the following documents:

• Joint application form
• Collaborative research proposal
• PhD degree certificate or proof of qualification
• Updated academic Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Proof of current academic or research appointment
• Supporting documents from the Chinese host institution

All documents should clearly explain the objectives, methodology, expected outcomes, and significance of the proposed collaborative research.

How to Apply

Follow these steps to apply for the NSFC Invitational Visiting Fellowship for European Scholars 2027:

1. Identify a Chinese researcher who is leading an active NSFC-funded project.
2. Develop a joint research proposal with the host researcher.
3. Prepare all required application documents.
4. Submit the joint application through the official NSFC online application system.
5. Complete the submission before the official deadline.

Because the fellowship is based on international collaboration, applicants are strongly encouraged to begin discussions with potential Chinese host institutions as early as possible.

Application Deadline

The final date to submit applications is:

15 September 2026 (16:00 Beijing Time)

Applications submitted after the deadline are generally not considered.

Why Apply for the NSFC Visiting Fellowship?

The NSFC Invitational Visiting Fellowship is an excellent opportunity for European researchers to expand international collaborations, access China’s advanced research infrastructure, and contribute to high-impact scientific projects. The programme strengthens academic partnerships between Europe and China while supporting innovation across multiple scientific disciplines.