If you’re an ambitious international researcher seeking the next big step in your academic journey, the MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowship at ADAPT Centre in Ireland may be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for. This prestigious and fully funded two-year fellowship offers experienced researchers the chance to deepen their work in fields such as:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Data Analytics
- Human-Centered AI
- Digital Humanities
And many others—all while being mentored by leading academic supervisors at one of Europe’s most innovative research centers. Applications are now open, and the deadline is fast approaching on May 31, 2025.
What Is the MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowship at ADAPT?
The Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Postdoctoral Fellowship is part of the Horizon Europe program and is one of the most competitive research funding schemes in the world. The 2025 edition at ADAPT Centre offers researchers a unique platform to launch or accelerate their careers in AI-driven digital content technologies. With full financial support, a vibrant interdisciplinary research environment, and tailored career development, this fellowship is designed to bring out the best in international scholars.
What is the leading research centre in Ireland?
ADAPT is Ireland’s leading research centre for digital innovation. It is coordinated by Trinity College Dublin and co-hosted by Dublin City University, with collaborations across top Irish universities such as University College Dublin, Maynooth University, Munster Technological University, Technological University Dublin, and others. ADAPT fosters cutting-edge research with real-world impact, making it a fertile ground for researchers looking to make their mark.
Who Can Apply for the MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowship?
This fellowship is aimed at experienced researchers from around the globe. If you hold a PhD or will obtain one before the start of the fellowship, and if you have not lived or worked in Ireland for more than 12 months in the past three years, you are eligible to apply. You must also present a strong and innovative research proposal aligned with ADAPT’s areas of expertise.
ADAPT is particularly looking for candidates interested in areas like:
- Human Centred AI,
- Machine Learning,
- Cybersecurity,
- Data Governance,
- Disinformation,
- e-Health,
- Blockchain,
- Natural Language Processing,
- Edge Computing,
- Linguistics,
- Speech Technology,
- Optical Networks,
- Digital Twins, and more.
Whether your background lies in computer science, linguistics, digital humanities, or a related field, there’s a place for you here.
Why Choose ADAPT Centre for Your Fellowship?
There are many reasons why ADAPT stands out as a top destination for postdoctoral researchers. First and foremost is its research excellence. With over 105 European research projects won and more than €50 million secured in competitive funding, ADAPT is a proven leader in the research and innovation space. The centre brings together leading academics, industry partners, and a global community of researchers working on projects that impact business, society, and policy.
As a fellow, you will have complete autonomy to shape your own research agenda with the guidance of a world-class academic supervisor and expert research development team. Your work will contribute to ADAPT’s broader mission to build a balanced digital society by 2030—one that prioritizes inclusion, ethics, and user empowerment in all areas of digital interaction.
What Are the Financial Benefits of the Fellowship?
This is a fully funded fellowship, meaning that financial barriers are eliminated for successful applicants. Fellows will receive a generous salary package expected to total around €75,000 annually, which includes both living and mobility allowances. In addition, if you are relocating with family, there is an additional Family Allowance to help support your move to Ireland.
Beyond the financial support, the fellowship also includes career development opportunities through the Marie Curie Alumni Association. As part of this network, you will gain access to career support, policy engagement opportunities, and a thriving international research community.
What Research Support Will You Receive?
ADAPT is deeply invested in the success of its fellows. You will work within an interdisciplinary research ecosystem that combines technical fields with social sciences, communications, fintech, ethics, law, health, and environmental studies. The ADAPT Design & Innovation Lab (dLab) supports the development of practical solutions and prototypes, helping turn research into real-world innovations.
You will also have access to advanced research infrastructure, academic mentorship, and support for writing and submitting research proposals to further funding bodies. Your research will be published and disseminated widely, with MSCA-supported publications often receiving higher citation rates than comparable work.
How Does This Fellowship Enhance Your Career?
The MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowship is more than just a research opportunity—it’s a career launcher. Alumni of the MSCA program go on to occupy influential academic, research, and policy positions around the world. Many use the fellowship to secure tenure-track roles, lead new research projects, or even launch their own spinout companies.
At ADAPT, you will be joining a thriving research community with a proven track record of innovation. The centre has helped form 22 spinout companies and has signed over 100 collaborative research projects. Fellows contribute to cutting-edge developments in areas like natural language processing, digital health, media interaction, data privacy, and AI ethics.
What Is It Like to Live and Work in Ireland?
Ireland is one of Europe’s most welcoming and dynamic countries, particularly for international researchers. As a fellow based in Dublin or other partner institutions, you will be living in a vibrant cultural hub with a strong tech and research ecosystem. The country is known for its high quality of life, scenic landscapes, and growing innovation economy.
Relocating to Ireland is made easier by the financial support provided through the fellowship. Whether you are coming alone or with family, you’ll find Ireland to be a safe, English-speaking country with a strong public infrastructure, excellent healthcare and education systems, and a supportive research environment.
How Can You Apply for the ADAPT?
To apply, you must submit an expression of interest to ADAPT by May 31, 2025. You will need to prepare a research proposal aligned with the centre’s strategic themes and identify a potential academic supervisor from the ADAPT network. Once selected, the ADAPT team will work with you to develop and submit a full application to the MSCA programme.
Given the competitive nature of this fellowship, it is important to start the application process as early as possible. The ADAPT team offers proposal development support and guidance to ensure your application is as strong as possible.
Take the Leap Toward an International Research Career
This is your chance to join one of Europe’s most prestigious postdoctoral programmes in a thriving, supportive research environment. The MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowship at ADAPT Centre is more than just funding—it’s a transformational experience that will expand your skills, your network, and your impact. If you’re ready to contribute to shaping the digital future, don’t miss this opportunity. Apply now before the May 31, 2025 deadline and take the first step toward a brighter research career in Ireland.
