FENS Forum 2026: Early Career Training Programme Now Open—A Gateway to Research Growth in Spain and Portugal
The journey of a young neuroscientist is filled with curiosity, ambition, and the constant pursuit of opportunities that can sharpen their research skills. For those looking to expand their scientific horizons ahead of the FENS Forum 2026 in Barcelona, an exceptional opportunity has just opened. The Spanish Society of Neuroscience (SENC), in collaboration with the Portuguese Society for Neuroscience (SPN), has officially launched applications for the Early Career Training Programme (ECTP)—a prestigious initiative supported by FENS and the IBRO Pan European Regional Committee (PERC).
Who Can Apply?
Applications are open to Early Career Researchers (ECRs) from around the globe, making this a truly international learning experience. Eligible candidates include:
- Postgraduate students, whether pursuing MSc, MD, PhD, or serving as assistants/trainees in clinical sciences. Proof of enrolment on official institution letterhead is required.
- Researchers within five years of completing their highest degree, whether BSc, MSc, MD, PhD, or an equivalent professional doctorate. Clinical psychologists are similarly eligible within the first five years of starting their clinical career.
- Researchers based outside Spain or Portugal, including Spanish or Portuguese nationals who have been working abroad for at least 18 months.
- Applicants must be registered for the FENS Forum 2026 and must have submitted a first-author abstract to the event.
It is important to note that applicants may receive only one FENS-related stipend per year. This means you may apply for either an ECTP stipend or a FENS Forum travel grant, but not both within the same year.
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Application Requirements
The application process is straightforward and designed to ensure that candidates clearly demonstrate their eligibility and research potential. Interested applicants must first complete the online application form and then submit the following materials:
- Proof of Early Career Researcher (ECR) status
This can be either a current enrolment document (for students) or a diploma/photo of the degree certificate (for recent graduates). Documents must clearly state the applicant’s name, institution, qualification, and relevant dates. Extensions may be granted for maternity leave or other justified absences. - First-author abstract submitted to FENS Forum 2026
This confirms the applicant’s active scientific contribution to the upcoming Forum. - Curriculum vitae (maximum 2 pages)
The CV should include educational background, research experience, methodologies mastered, publications, abstracts, presentations, and other relevant achievements. - Supervisor recommendation letter (maximum 250 words)
This brief letter should endorse the applicant’s competency and potential, including the supervisor’s name, institutional affiliation, and contact information.
A complete list of participating host laboratories and available research topics can be accessed via the programme page, enabling applicants to explore potential research environments before submitting their choices.
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Deadline Approaching Soon
The application deadline is 27 January 2026, giving prospective applicants ample time to prepare their documents and explore the impressive variety of host labs. With its combination of professional development, cross-cultural scientific engagement, and financial support, the Early Career Training Programme stands out as a transformative opportunity for emerging neuroscientists.
As the countdown to the FENS Forum 2026 begins, this programme promises to empower the next generation of neuroscience professionals—helping them build essential skills, broaden international networks, and contribute meaningfully to the scientific community.
