Fondazione Antonio Madonna

Research Fellowship

in Fundamental Physics and Study of the Universe

2nd Edition: fam-bs-n.2 – 2026

Key Information

Duration

12 months fellowship

Funding

EUR 28K budget

Deadline

December 10, 2026

The Objective

The Fondazione Antonio Madonna ETS establishes a fellowship to support young researchers contributing to the advancement of knowledge in fundamental physics and study of the universe.

The second edition of the fellowship aims to promote innovative studies exploring the interface between gravity and quantum theory, encompassing areas such as quantum gravity and fundamental quantum physics.

The total amount of EUR 28,000 gross is awarded to the selected candidate to further the research in the interface between gravity and quantum theory, covering research activity, expenditures and subsistence costs.

The fellowship has a duration of 12 months with possible partial extension subject to positive evaluation of interim reports and evidence of outstanding achievements.

Requirements & Criteria

Eligibility Requirements

  • Hold a PhD in physics or related disciplines, awarded after January 1, 2019
  • Conduct or intend to conduct research at a University or Research Institution (in Italy or abroad)
  • Submit an original and innovative research project related to the interface between gravity and quantum theory

Selection Criteria

  • Originality, feasibility, and relevance of the research project
  • Scientific significance and expected impact
  • Alignment with the fellowship's objectives
  • Candidate's qualifications and potential

Required Application Documents

Applications must be written in English and submitted through the form at the bottom of this page by December 10th, 2026 at 23:59 CET.

  1. Curriculum Vitae including publication list
  2. Research project description (max 5 pages): statement of the problem addressed, objectives, methodology, timeline, expected results and hoped scientific impact
  3. One relevant scientific publication related to the research topic
  4. Letter of presentation from a professor or academic supervisor
  5. Reference letters (minimum one, maximum two), sent directly by the referees

Timeline

Application Deadline

December 10th, 2026 at 23:59 CET

Winner Announcement

By February 15th, 2027

Disbursement and Outcomes

The fellowship amount will be allocated in two installments (beginning of the first semester and beginning of the second semester after the interim report) and must be used to support the winner's research activities. The following documents will be processed and issued:

Required Deliverables

  • Interim report at mid-term
  • Final report at conclusion
  • Presentation of research outcomes

Award Ceremony

The winner will be invited to an award ceremony during a scientific event, where they will present the research project and its objectives.

Official Fellowship Description

Download Official Document

Get the complete official fellowship announcement with all terms and conditions.

Download PDF

Application Form

Complete the mandatory fields below, and do not hesitate to contact us should you have any question.

Applicant Details

Name *
The Research Institute where the funds will be used
Upload one PDF containing your academic CV, including your publication list.
Upload one PDF containing a letter of presentation of the applicant from a professor or academic supervisor.

Project Details

Upload one PDF of max 5 pages outlining: statement of the problem addressed, objectives, methodology, timeline, expected results and hoped scientific impact.
Upload one PDF containing your most relevant publication on the subject of the project.

Reference Letters

Please provide the contact details of the experts who will provide a reference letter for your application: at least one, at most two.

Referee #1 *

Name *

Referee #2 (Optional)

Name

Please review all information before submitting