The NWO Veni grant empowers outstanding recent PhD graduates to establish their own line of independent, innovative research over three years (extendable to four for part-time)—across seven Science panels from Earth Sciences to Computer Science.
Eligibility Criteria:
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PhD obtained no earlier than 1 January 2022 and no later than 2 September 2025 (extensions for parental leave, illness, etc. apply).
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Candidates in the Netherlands or abroad may apply, regardless of tenured status.
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Must transition toward research independence with academic qualities “clearly exceeding what is customary.”
Funding Details:
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Budget: Up to €320,000 (direct costs) for a maximum of three years (pro rata if part-time; <0.4 FTE not permitted).
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Use of Funds: Salaries, consumables, travel, and other project expenses. No distinction between equipment or overhead; all costs must fit within the lump sum.
Deadlines:
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Pre-proposal (500-word research idea): 2 September 2025, 14:00 CEST
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Full Proposal: 27 January 2026, 14:00 CET
Assessment:
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Pre-proposal judged on Quality of the Researcher.
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Full proposal judged on Research Quality & Innovation (75%) and Scientific/Societal Impact (25%).
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Panels: Earth Sciences, Astronomy, Life Sciences, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science. Applicants select a primary panel.
Where to Apply & More Info:
Submit via the NWO Grant Management System.
Full Call details, eligibility rules, and timeline.