Spain has opened the 2026 call for applications under the ATRAE Programme, a flagship initiative aimed at attracting internationally recognised research talent to the Spanish R&D system.
Published on 23 April 2026 by the State Research Agency (AEI), the call forms part of the State Programme for Human Resources within the State Plan for Scientific, Technical and Innovation Research 2024–2027. It is designed to facilitate the incorporation of established researchers of outstanding international prestige into Spanish institutions.
Strengthening Spain’s research ecosystem
The ATRAE Programme targets senior researchers who have developed a significant part of their careers abroad and are among the top performers in their respective fields. The initiative seeks to reinforce Spain’s scientific excellence by fostering knowledge circulation and enabling the creation and consolidation of high-impact research teams.
Eligible candidates must hold a PhD obtained before 1 January 2019 and demonstrate at least five years of professional experience in international research institutions in recent years. The programme prioritises researchers with proven leadership, such as principal investigators of competitive projects or those with internationally recognised achievements.
Funding and conditions
The 2026 call has a total budget of €40 million, with the possibility of an additional €5 million depending on budget availability. Individual grants may reach up to €1 million per project, or up to €1.2 million for researchers currently based in the United States.
Funded actions will support:
- The recruitment of the principal investigator under a distinguished researcher contract
- The development of an R&D&I project led by the researcher
- Additional costs such as research staff, equipment, mobility, and infrastructure adaptation
Projects will have a duration of 3 to 4 years, starting from 2027, and must include a commitment from the host institution to open a permanent position for the recruited researcher before the end of the funding period.
Application process
Applications must be submitted by eligible host institutions, including universities, research centres, and health research institutes based in Spain. The submission period runs from 23 April to 4 June 2026 (14:00 CET).
Proposals will be evaluated through a competitive process based on excellence criteria, with a minimum score threshold required for funding.
Supporting global research careers in Spain
The ATRAE Programme is part of the broader Choose Spain initiative, which aims to enhance the country’s attractiveness as a destination for international research careers. By offering competitive funding and stable career pathways, ATRAE contributes to positioning Spain as a hub for scientific excellence and innovation.
In this context, Euraxess Spain plays a key role in supporting researchers relocating to the country. Through a network of 118 Euraxess centres, it provides personalised assistance on mobility, integration, and career development, helping international talent successfully establish and progress within the Spanish research system.
All information here: https://www.aei.gob.es/en/node/5072