Ramón y Cajal Programme
We incorporate the best postdoctoral researchers into the Spanish science, technology and innovation system. Since 2001, driving scientific excellence.
What is the Ramón y Cajal Programme?
The Ramón y Cajal Programme promotes the recruitment of postdoctoral researchers of all nationalities and knowledge areas, with outstanding careers, into research organisations of the Spanish Science, Technology and Innovation System.
Since its first call in 2001, the Programme has been the main instrument to attract and retain research talent in Spain, with the aim that grantees acquire the skills and capabilities to obtain a permanent position.
The Programme has been strengthened since 2018 by increasing the number of contracts and the minimum salary of grantees.
2026 Call Updates
Funding for an own R&I project
Each grant will include funding for a 5-year research project, with sufficient allocation to hire at least one predoctoral researcher for 4 years.
Interview in the evaluation process
An interview is incorporated into the evaluation process, focusing on the degree of independence, leadership capacity and project feasibility.
Incentives to participate in ERC calls
Up to a 30% increase in salary co-funding and access to Europa Excelencia for those applying to European Research Council calls.
Mandatory stabilisation with incentive
The creation of a permanent position in the grantee's area will be mandatory, supported by an incentive for the host institution.
Integration with Research Consolidation
The Research Consolidation call is abolished: its objectives are covered by the new structure of RYC grants.
Recent calls
2026 Ramón y Cajal 2026 Call
2025 Ramón y Cajal 2025 Call
2024 Ramón y Cajal 2024 Call
2023 Ramón y Cajal 2023 Call
Useful links
The Ramón y Cajal Programme is co-funded by the European Union