Lithuania offers a robust and evolving ecosystem for researchers, with competitive doctoral studies, post-doctoral opportunities and career-stabilization pathways. The Research Council of Lithuania (RCL / LMT) serves as the central national agency for research funding and policy.
Opportunities for researchers
PhD studies in Lithuania
There are several major institutions in Lithuania where you can pursue your doctoral research. The main universities and research centers are listed below, with direct links to their doctoral programs. Most PhD positions are funded by the state or through research projects, although funding conditions and eligibility criteria vary by institution and field — it is important to review them carefully before applying.
Vilnius University (VU). Doctoral studies in 29 fields of science across the major science areas: natural sciences, technological sciences, medicine & health sciences, humanities, and social sciences.
Kaunas University of Technology (KTU). Doctoral studies across technical, scientific and social science fields.
Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, also known as Vilnius Tech (VGTU). Doctoral studies in multiple engineering, technology and related fields.
Mykolas Romeris University (MRU). Doctoral programs on social sciences and humanities, mostly oriented to social innovation mission.
Vytautas Magnus University (VMU). Doctoral studies in a wide range of fields.
Post-doctoral grants
Lithuania offers several opportunities for researchers to continue their work after completing a PhD. Post-doctoral grants are typically funded by the state, universities, or international programs.
RCL Postdoctoral Fellowships. To support early‑career researchers after their PhD. For example, the 2025 call has a total budget of about €8 million, with projects lasting up to 24 months. The host institution must submit the application together with the fellow. Read more.
International Fellowships (Measure 01.2.2‑LMT‑K‑718). It is designed for foreign researchers to implement R&D projects in Lithuanian institutions. Read more.
Research projects in Centers of Excellence established by the Ministry of Education, Science and Sport of Lithuania, at various universities across the country. They promote international teams with senior and junior researchers. Two-year projects with funding exceeding €100,000. Read more.
Horizon Europe / MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships. Lithuanian host universities participate in MSCA calls, welcoming excellent postdoctoral researchers of any nationality. Read more.
Towards stabilization
Lithuania provides structured support to help researchers transition from early-career stages toward stable academic or research positions. Funding schemes, mobility opportunities, and career development measures offered by the Research Council of Lithuania are designed to strengthen skills, promote international collaboration, and support long-term research careers. They vary widely depending on the science field. Read more.
Application periods for doctoral and postdoctoral grants in Lithuania vary depending on the programe, funding scheme, and host institution. To ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is strongly recommended to regularly consult the Research Council of Lithuania website.