To further strengthen the talent funding system and enhance the role of research funding in attracting and nurturing high-level talent, the Excellent Young Scientists Fund (Overseas) will continue in 2026. The program aims to attract outstanding early-career researchers from abroad to pursue academic careers in mainland China.
A well-established public university in mainland China warmly welcomes applications from qualified overseas candidates.
1. About the Program
The Excellent Young Scientists Fund (Overseas) supports promising young scholars who have already demonstrated strong research achievements in natural sciences, engineering, and related fields.
The program encourages recipients to:
- Conduct independent and innovative research
- Develop into future academic leaders
- Contribute to advancing global scientific frontiers
2. Application Deadline
June 15, 2026
3. Eligibility
Applicants should meet the following requirements:
- Comply with the laws and regulations of mainland China and uphold high standards of academic integrity
- Born on or after January 1, 1986
- Hold a doctoral degree
- Specialize in natural sciences, engineering, or related fields
- Have held a formal academic or research position at an overseas university, research institute, or R&D organization for at least 36 consecutive months after completing the PhD (exceptions may apply for outstanding candidates)
- Demonstrate recognized research achievements and strong potential for leadership in their field
- Not yet employed full-time in mainland China, or have returned after January 1, 2025
Successful candidates must resign from overseas positions and work full-time in mainland China for at least 3 years upon receiving the award.
4. Funding & Benefits
- Research funding: RMB 1–3 million over 3 years
- Institutional support:
- Competitive salary package
- Housing allowance
- Start-up research funding
- Assistance in building a research team
- Family support: assistance with spouse employment and children’s education
- Additional benefits: access to talent services, including healthcare and social support
5. Application Notes
- Eligible applicants should submit applications online after April 10, 2026
- Applications may be completed in English or Simplified Chinese
- Applicants are responsible for the authenticity and accuracy of submitted materials
- The process is fully digital (no paper submission required)
Application system:
https://grants.nsfc.gov.cn/
Program guidelines:
https://www.nsfc.gov.cn/p1/3381/2824/121517.html
6. How to Apply
Interested candidates should send their CV to the designated contact email with us:
“Excellent Young Scientists Fund (Overseas) + Name + Discipline”
The CV should include:
- Basic personal information
- Contact details
- Education and employment history
- Major academic achievements (publications, projects, patents, awards, etc.)
Shortlisted candidates will receive further guidance during the application process.
7. About the Institution
The university is a public institution in mainland China with strong strengths in engineering and applied sciences. It has multiple campuses and a well-established faculty team, with a significant proportion of staff holding senior titles and doctoral degrees.
Its engineering discipline ranks within the top 1% globally (ESI). The institution hosts a number of national and provincial research platforms and has achieved notable results in scientific research and teaching.
The university offers a wide range of programs across engineering, science, management, economics, and related disciplines, with particular strengths in transportation, infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing.