The Foundation for Polish Science (FNP) is launching a new call for applications under the First Team measure financed by the European Funds for a Smart Economy 2021–2027 programme. Call No. 1/2026 will be conducted between 20 January 2026 and 17 February 2026. A total of PLN 52 million is available for innovative research projects led by early-career researchers.
First Team aims to encourage the best young researchers from around the world to work in Polish research organisations and to develop international and economic cooperation. Under First Team, early-career researchers can apply for funding to set up a new research team and conduct R&D work in collaboration with a foreign scientific partner and a domestic economic partner.
For the first time, applications may be submitted in Polish or English.
Key Information:
• Applicants: Researchers between 2 and 9 years post-PhD.
• Funding: Up to PLN 4 million per project.
• Application Deadline: From January 20 to February 17, 2026.
• New Feature: Applications may be submitted in either Polish or English.
Detailed documentation and the application system are available on the call website.
Recording of the information meeting regarding the call, held on January 16, 2026
More about the FIRST TEAM
