Agência FAPESP – FAPESP has launched a new international call for proposals for its Young Investigator Grant support modality. The goal is to attract exceptional researchers from abroad to develop independent, internationally competitive research programs at higher education and research institutions in the state of São Paulo.
Up to 20 researchers with internationally recognized expertise in their respective fields will be selected for the initiative. Eligible researchers must have lived and worked abroad for at least two years after earning their Ph.D., be residing abroad at the time of proposal submission, and intend to establish or consolidate their research careers at institutions in São Paulo.
The call is open to seven strategic research areas: biotechnology; energy transition; biodiversity, sustainable production, and food security; digital transition and artificial intelligence; quantum science and technology; human and animal health; and public safety.
Proposals in artificial intelligence will be linked to the São Paulo Artificial Intelligence Research Center, which is supported by FAPESP, the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovations (MCTI), the Brazilian Internet Steering Committee (CGI.br), and the state universities of São Paulo.
Dedicated research program
Applicants must meet the eligibility requirements for FAPESP’s Young Investigator Grant and the specific conditions of this call for proposals.
Applicants are expected to demonstrate outstanding expertise and leadership through the quality, originality, and impact of their scientific careers and achievements.
They must also establish a research laboratory and develop a dedicated research program at an institution in the state of São Paulo, ensuring full integration and commitment to the proposed project.
Projects are expected to last 60 months and may be extended for up to 12 months following evaluation by FAPESP. The maximum funding per proposal is BRL 2.5 million.
In addition to this amount, a Young Investigator Fellowship may be requested and granted for up to the entire duration of the grant or until the principal researcher obtains a permanent position at a university or research institution in the state of São Paulo.
The selection process consists of three stages: proposal submission, evaluation by an external panel of reviewers, and an oral presentation and online interview with members of the evaluation committee. The evaluation will consider the originality and potential impact of the research, the scientific quality and feasibility of the project, and the candidate’s scientific background, achievements, and ability to lead an independent, internationally competitive research program.
The deadline for submitting complete proposals is November 19, 2026.
The full call for proposals is available at fapesp.br/18389.
Questions regarding the call should be directed to yig@fapesp.br.