Madrid Attracts Research Talent with 23 Million Euros

The Community of Madrid launches the 2026 César Nombela aid call, offering funding for up to five years to incorporate doctors and support their R&D projects.

Close-up of a researcher's hands holding a petri dish under a microscope in a laboratory.
IA

Close-up of a researcher's hands holding a petri dish under a microscope in a laboratory.

The Community of Madrid has launched the 2026 call for César Nombela grants, with an investment of 23 million euros, to attract doctors with careers developed abroad to Spain.

The initiative, promoted by the Ministry of Education, Science and Universities, aims to incorporate up to 46 researchers by 2030. This funding represents a 4.3% increase compared to the previous year, and applications will be accepted until July 9.
Universities, public research centers, IMDEA foundations, health institutions, and other R&D entities are eligible for these grants. The Community will fully cover salary costs, facilitating participation for institutions with limited financial capacity.
For the first three years, the aid for salaries and social security contributions will amount to 61,000 euros annually, guaranteeing a gross minimum salary of 45,000 euros for doctors. Upon accreditation as an established researcher (R3), this amount will increase to 67,000 euros, with a minimum salary of 50,000 euros.
In addition, each project will receive funding of up to 220,000 euros over the five-year grant period. These resources can be used for hiring support staff, acquiring materials, amortizing scientific equipment, and covering travel expenses related to research activities.
Candidate selection will be based on scientific-technical trajectory, international participation, demonstrated leadership, and the relevance and economic viability of the proposed R&D projects. The program honors César Nombela for his distinguished career in microbial molecular biology and biotechnology.