Apply by: 9 November 2026
Charles University invites excellent researchers from around the world to apply for the Kellner Research Chair Programme, offering an opportunity to establish or expand an internationally competitive research group in the Czech Republic.
The programme welcomes researchers of all nationalities and scientific disciplines who have demonstrated international research excellence and leadership.
A five-year appointment at Charles University.
Three years of funding provided by The Kellner Family Foundation (total support CZK 7.6 million), followed by two additional years funded by the hosting faculty (minimally CZK 1M per year).
The opportunity to establish or expand an independent research group.
Access to Charles University's research infrastructure and interdisciplinary environment across
17 faculties and 4 university institutes located in Prague, Pilsen and Hradec Králové.
The programme is open to researchers:
of any nationality;
from all scientific disciplines;
with demonstrated international excellence and leadership;
who are approximately 3–12 years post-PhD;
who have not resided or worked in the host country for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before the call deadline;
who are capable of independently leading ambitious research projects and establishing their own research groups.
Successful applicants are expected to devote at least 80% of their working time to Charles University and to publish their research in accordance with the University's Open Access policy.
Call opens: 10 September 2026, 16:00 CET
Application deadline: 9 November 2026, 16:00 CET
Applications must be submitted through the online application form.
Start of the project: between 1 September 2027 and 31 December 2027
Further information, including the Guide for Applicants, application documents and the online application form, will be available at: cuni.cz/krc
The Kellner Research Chair Programme is a joint initiative of Charles University, the Charles University Endowment Fund, and The Kellner Family Foundation, which provides funding for the programme. The programme aims to strengthen Charles University’s position as a centre of global academic excellence by attracting world-leading scientists, fostering international collaboration, enhancing the overall quality and international competitiveness of research conducted in the Czech Republic and promoting responsible and open research in line with the principles of the European Research Area (ERA).