SQUASH Fellowship Program
1st International Call for Postdoctoral Researchers
The final deadline for submitting complete applications to the public call is August 30, 2025, 17:00 CET
The SQUASH Program is a prestigious Marie Skłodowska-Curie COFUND initiative offering 3-year postdoctoral positions in quantum science and technology. This 1st international call invites outstanding researchers from around the world to join leading Slovenian and international institutions in shaping the future of quantum innovation.
1. Subject of the call
The Jožef Stefan Institute is announcing a public call for participation in the SQUASH program – the Slovenian Quantum Science Hub. This is an innovative, intersectoral training and career-development program, co-funded by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions program GA n. 101177446 and the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation of the Republic of Slovenia.
The aim of the SQUASH program is to enhance the research excellence and career opportunities of exceptional postdoctoral researchers from around the world. Selected candidates will have the opportunity to develop their research ideas in one of four areas of quantum science:
- Quantum Theory
- Quantum Materials
- Quantum Technology
- Quantum Computing and Information
The program, led by the Jožef Stefan Institute, includes collaboration with prominent associated partners from Slovenia, the EU, and beyond. It promotes career mobility and offers top-level training in scientific and transferable skills. Through Call 1, SQUASH aims to employ an initial 20 individuals for 3-year full-time postdoctoral contracts with competitive salaries, excellent research conditions, and international mobility. Call 2, planned for March 2026, will employ a further 20 postdoctoral researchers.
2. Why apply?
The Slovenian Quantum Science Hub is an innovative, intersectoral program for training and career development. It is a highly competitive initiative offering researchers attractive conditions. The program will provide:
- 40, 3-year full-time employment contracts as a Marie Skłodowska-Curie COFUND fellow, with complete academic freedom to carry out your research project and a budget for research, training and travel,
- Opportunities for international and intersectoral mobility through secondments with prominent SQUASH partners from Slovenia, various parts of Europe, North America, India, and Japan,
- Strong links with industry through collaboration with SQUASH non-academic partners,
- High-quality courses on SQUASH research topics, supplemented by extensive soft-skills programs, including transferable-skills development.
SQUASH is a project aligned with the strategic priorities of both Slovenia and the European Union. It provides young researchers from diverse fields of quantum science—ranging from physics, chemistry, and materials science to computing and engineering—a pathway to scientific maturity and independence.
Join us and develop your career in Slovenia, where science, innovation, and quality of life converge!
Read more: Discover SQUASH
3. Who can apply?
Important documents and templates
The SQUASH Program is a prestigious Marie Skłodowska-Curie COFUND initiative offering 3-year postdoctoral positions in quantum science and technology. This 1st international call invites outstanding researchers from around the world to join leading Slovenian and international institutions in shaping the future of quantum innovation.
1. Subject of the call
The Jožef Stefan Institute is announcing a public call for participation in the SQUASH program – the Slovenian Quantum Science Hub. This is an innovative, intersectoral training and career-development program, co-funded by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions program GA n. 101177446 and the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation of the Republic of Slovenia.
The aim of the SQUASH program is to enhance the research excellence and career opportunities of exceptional postdoctoral researchers from around the world. Selected candidates will have the opportunity to develop their research ideas in one of four areas of quantum science:
- Quantum Theory
- Quantum Materials
- Quantum Technology
- Quantum Computing and Information
The program, led by the Jožef Stefan Institute, includes collaboration with prominent associated partners from Slovenia, the EU, and beyond. It promotes career mobility and offers top-level training in scientific and transferable skills. Through Call 1, SQUASH aims to employ an initial 20 individuals for 3-year full-time postdoctoral contracts with competitive salaries, excellent research conditions, and international mobility. Call 2, planned for March 2026, will employ a further 20 postdoctoral researchers.
2. Why apply?
The Slovenian Quantum Science Hub is an innovative, intersectoral program for training and career development. It is a highly competitive initiative offering researchers attractive conditions. The program will provide:
- 40, 3-year full-time employment contracts as a Marie Skłodowska-Curie COFUND fellow, with complete academic freedom to carry out your research project and a budget for research, training and travel,
- Opportunities for international and intersectoral mobility through secondments with prominent SQUASH partners from Slovenia, various parts of Europe, North America, India, and Japan,
- Strong links with industry through collaboration with SQUASH non-academic partners,
- High-quality courses on SQUASH research topics, supplemented by extensive soft-skills programs, including transferable-skills development.
SQUASH is a project aligned with the strategic priorities of both Slovenia and the European Union. It provides young researchers from diverse fields of quantum science—ranging from physics, chemistry, and materials science to computing and engineering—a pathway to scientific maturity and independence.
Join us and develop your career in Slovenia, where science, innovation, and quality of life converge!
Read more: Discover SQUASH
3. Who can apply?
To participate in the evaluation process, applicants must meet the following criteria by the application deadline:
- Hold a doctoral degree (or have successfully defended their dissertation, even if the degree is not yet formally awarded).
- Comply with the mobility rule, i.e., have not resided or carried out their main activities in Slovenia for more than 12 months within the last 3 years before the application deadline.
- Propose an independent postdoctoral research project aligned with one or more of the key research areas of the program.
- Applicants are encouraged to consult potential supervisors, who can guide the applicant through the application process.
SQUASH promotes an inclusive, diverse, and supportive research environment, encouraging applications from underrepresented groups.
4. The application
Applications must be written in English and submitted via the online portal of the Jožef Stefan Institute for the SQUASH program before the application deadline.
The portal requires each applicant to first register and then complete the following sections:
- Personal information
- Eligibility
- Academic profile
- Non-academic experience
- Details of participation in any communication, promotional, or dissemination activities (excluding scientific publications)
- Research field for which they are applying
- Ethics questionnaire
In addition, applicants must upload the following documents:
- Europass CV with standard academic and research information, including a complete list of publications.
- Motivation letter, based on a predefined set of questions, explaining the applicant's interest in the SQUASH program and the reasons for their application, including how they expect the program to enhance their career goals.
- Research proposal (word, pdf) (maximum 10 pages), addressing how the proposal aligns with one or more key research areas, as well as the objectives and purpose of the proposed project, the state of the art, originality and innovation of the proposal, research methodology, and expected outcomes. The proposal should also include a dissemination and communication plan, including an exploitation strategy if applicable. It must include a Gantt chart and financial plan, as well as requirements for work to be carried out during a mandatory secondment with one of the associated partners or at another location outside the project.
- Completed Ethics Self-Assessment and also an Ethics Statement of not more than 2 pages, including a description of the nature of these issues and how they plan to deal with them, annexing the Ethics Statement to the Project Proposal. (Template in pdf)
- Recommendation letters from two evaluators outside the SQUASH program, assessing the applicant's previous research activities, research abilities, and work experience. Applicants can also send recommendation letters via the AcademicJobsOnline website.
Eligibility Summary
- PhD awarded (or thesis defended)
- Mobility rule: not in Slovenia >12 months in past 3 years
- Research proposal aligned with SQUASH themes
Timeline for the Call 1 - 2025
5. Employment details
- Researchers will be employed under a standard 3-year fixed-term employment contract following national regulations. All legitimate statutory benefits under national regulations and host institution rules will apply, including working hours, flexible working time, paid annual leave, sick leave, parental leave, social security, pension insurance, and family allowances.
- Researchers will receive a monthly gross salary of €5.600,00/€6.100,00 (with/without family allowance). This is gross* amount that includes all taxes and other statutory contributions. The researcher's net salary will be determined after deducting all mandatory social security contributions and direct taxes. The researcher will be contracted to work for 40 hours per week, with national (bank) holidays and approx. 25–30 personal free days (depending on previous working experience, social circumstances such as number of children, etc.) and fully paid maternity/paternity/parental leave. The institution will pay the salary in accordance with national legislation and established practice, providing equal working conditions, rights, and obligations as for other employees and researchers. Employment conditions will comply with the European Charter and Code for Researchers.
For more information, please refer to the Applicant's Guide.
*Gross salary with employer's social contributions.
6. Evaluation criteria, candidate selection and redress
6. 1. Selection Process: Transparent and Evaluation in 7 Stages
The SQUASH selection procedure ensures a fair, transparent, and merit-based recruitment of postdoctoral fellows. The process is aligned with the principles of the European Charter for Researchers and consists of the following 7 key stages:
1. Eligibility Check
Immediately after the submission deadline, all applications are reviewed to ensure they meet formal eligibility requirements (e.g., PhD status, mobility rule, complete documents). Only eligible applications proceed to evaluation.
2. Proposal Evaluation by Experts
Eligible proposals are evaluated remotely by a Proposal Evaluation Committee consisting of international experts in the relevant scientific fields. Each application is reviewed by three independent evaluators.
3. Consensus Score and Shortlisting
A consensus score is reached from the individual assessments. Applications that score 8 or higher (out of 10) are shortlisted for the next stage. Feedback reports are compiled for each applicant.
4. Invitation to Interview
The top 40 shortlisted candidates are invited to an online interview. Invitations are issued with clear instructions and evaluation guidelines for transparency and preparation.
5. Interview Stage
Candidates are assessed during a 40-minute recorded interview by an Interview Evaluation Panel. The evaluation focuses on the applicant’s communication skills, motivation, project feasibility, and alignment with the program.
6. Final Selection and Ranking
Interview scores are combined with proposal scores using a weighted formula:
- 70% written proposal score
- 30% interview score
Final rankings are compiled and presented to the Governing Board, which formally approves the list of selected fellows and a reserve list.
7. Notification and Feedback
All applicants are notified of the outcome. Rejected applicants receive an evaluation summary report. A redress procedure is in place to address possible procedural errors.
Equality between genders is guaranteed, and all forms of discrimination against individuals applying as young researchers are strictly prohibited.
1. Eligibility Check
Immediately after the submission deadline, all applications are reviewed to ensure they meet formal eligibility requirements (e.g., PhD status, mobility rule, complete documents). Only eligible applications proceed to evaluation.
2. Proposal Evaluation by Experts
Eligible proposals are evaluated remotely by a Proposal Evaluation Committee consisting of international experts in the relevant scientific fields. Each application is reviewed by three independent evaluators.
3. Consensus Score and Shortlisting
A consensus score is reached from the individual assessments. Applications that score 0 or higher (out of 10) are shortlisted for the next stage. Feedback reports are compiled for each applicant.
4. Invitation to Interview
The top 40 shortlisted candidates are invited to an online interview. Invitations are issued with clear instructions and evaluation guidelines for transparency and preparation.
5. Interview Stage
Candidates are assessed during a 40-minute recorded interview by an Interview Evaluation Panel. The evaluation focuses on the applicant’s communication skills, motivation, project feasibility, and alignment with the program.
6. Final Selection and Ranking
Interview scores are combined with proposal scores using a weighted formula:
- 70% written proposal score
- 30% interview score
Final rankings are compiled and presented to the Governing Board, which formally approves the list of selected fellows and a reserve list.
7. Notification and Feedback
All applicants are notified of the outcome. Rejected applicants receive an evaluation summary report. A redress procedure is in place to address possible procedural errors.
Equality between genders is guaranteed, and all forms of discrimination against individuals applying as young researchers are strictly prohibited.
Written Proposal Evaluation (70%)
Table 1.1a. Evaluation criteria applied to the applicant and the research proposal.
Proposal (50% weight of the total score)
Excellence (25%)
Feasibility and Implementation (15%)
Impact & dissemination (10%)
Clarity of objectives; Originality of proposed research and awareness of current debates and state of the art
Comprehensive and appropriate theoretical and methodological framework; Feasibility within given time-frame and available budget; Relevance for the Key Research Areas; Fit with host research groups of SQUASH; Capacity to carry out the research project
Recognition of anticipated impact of work; Evidence of long-term vision; Publication, dissemination-and-exploitation plan.
Applicant (50% weight of the total score)
Track record (20%)
Competences and motivation (15%)
Career development (15%)
Qualifications; Research track-record; Awards & Funding; Statements of recommendation
Past achievements (quality and productivity), demonstrated collaborative aspects; Diversity of dissemination activities including conference attendance and organisation, invited talks; Ability to forge beyond disciplinary specialisms
Relevance of fellowship at career stage; Scope for new partnerships and relevance of potential cross-sectoral collaboration
Interview Assessment (30%)
Table 1.1 b: Evaluation criteria applied to the applicant in the interview.
Project (50% weight of the total score)
Presentation (25%)
Discussion (25%)
Scientific background, technical capability
Self-evaluation (weaknesses and strengths), vision of the wider context
Researcher (50% weight of the total score)
Expected career impact (25%)
Soft skills (25%)
Career path vision; Motivation; Entrepreneurial awareness
Teamworking, Communication skills, Outreach interests
Written Proposal Evaluation (70%)
Table 1.1a. Evaluation criteria applied to the applicant and the research proposal.
Proposal (50% weight of the total score)
Excellence (25%)
Clarity of objectives; Originality of proposed research and awareness of current debates and state of the art
Feasibility and Implementation (15%)
Comprehensive and appropriate theoretical and methodological framework; Feasibility within given time-frame and available budget; Relevance for the Key Research Areas; Fit with host research groups of SQUASH; Capacity to carry out the research project
Impact & dissemination (10%)
Recognition of anticipated impact of work; Evidence of long-term vision; Publication, dissemination-and-exploitation plan.
Applicant (50% weight of the total score)
Track record (20%)
Qualifications; Research track-record; Awards & Funding; Statements of recommendation
Competences and motivation (15%)
Past achievements (quality and productivity), demonstrated collaborative aspects; Diversity of dissemination activities including conference attendance and organisation, invited talks; Ability to forge beyond disciplinary specialisms
Career development (15%)
Relevance of fellowship at career stage; Scope for new partnerships and relevance of potential cross-sectoral collaboration
Interview Assessment (30%)
Table 1.1 b: Evaluation criteria applied to the applicant in the interview.
Project (50% weight of the total score)
Presentation (25%)
Scientific background, technical capability
Discussion (25%)
Self-evaluation (weaknesses and strengths), vision of the wider context
Researcher (50% weight of the total score)
Expected career impact (25%)
Career path vision; Motivation; Entrepreneurial awareness
Soft skills (25%)
Teamworking, Communication skills, Outreach interests
6. 2. Redress
Any applicant who is rejected during the evaluation process has the right to submit an appeal under the following conditions:
- Scope of Redress: Appeals can only address procedural errors in the evaluation process. Disagreements with the scores or opinions of evaluators will not be considered valid grounds for appeal.
- Where to Appeal: Appeals must be submitted to the Executive Board of the SQUASH program. Contact: squash@ijs.si
- Time Limit: Appeals must be filed within 7 days of the applicant being informed of the rejection.
- Final Decision: If a procedural mistake is confirmed, the Governing Board will re-evaluate the application. The Governing Board’s decision following the redress review is final and binding.
7. Ensuring equal opportunities
SQUASH is committed to fostering an inclusive research environment. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender identity, nationality, ethnic background, disability, age, or sexual orientation.
8. Additional information
The final deadline for submitting complete applications to the public call is August 30, 2025, 17:00 CET.
Only complete applications submitted in English through the online portal and received by the application deadline will be considered. Applications submitted before the call’s publication date or after the specified deadline will not be considered.
Important documents and templates
Frequently asked questions - FAQ
Q: What does SQUASH stand for?
A: SQUASH stands for Slovenian Quantum Science Hub.
Q: Can I submit an application by email?
A: No. All applications must be submitted through the SQUASH web portal. Email submissions are not accepted.
Q: Do I have to use the templates provided?
A: While the document encourages standardization and includes templates, it does not explicitly say you must use them. However, using the provided templates is strongly recommended to ensure proper formatting and comparability.
Q: Do I need Europass CV?
A: Yes, you do. Create your Europass CV.
Q: Does the CV include publications?
A: Yes. The required Europass CV must include a complete list of publications as part of the academic and research record.
Q: Do applicants need a letter from the host organization?
A: Applicants do not need a formal letter from the host institution. However, they are strongly encouraged to reach out to potential supervisors for help in preparing the proposal.
Q: Can I apply for multiple positions with multiple supervisors?
A: No. An applicant may only submit one proposal per call.
Q: Can I take my fellowship to another institution?
A: No. Fellowships are tied to the SQUASH host institution and the implementing partner. The fellowship cannot be transferred to a different institution.
Q: Are secondments essential to the proposal?
A: Secondments are mandatory. Applicants are expected to outline secondment plans in their proposals.
Q: Are costs associated with a secondment separate from annual research costs?
A: Yes, sometimes. Secondment-specific allowances are separate and may include subsistence support for high-cost locations.
Q: I am not happy with the result of my evaluation: what can I do?
A: Applicants may appeal within 7 days of receiving their report via a redress procedure, but only on the grounds of procedural errors, i.e., not the reviewers' scores or judgments.
Q: If successful, are there any restrictions on whether a postdoc researcher can hold funding from other sources (e.g., IRC, ERC)?
A: Yes. A postdoc researcher employed within SQUASH must not receive other income.
Q: Is it possible for applicants who completed their PhD in Slovenia to apply?
A: Yes, provided they meet the mobility rule, i.e., they must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, study, etc.) in Slovenia for more than 12 months in the 3 years before the call deadline.
Q: Is it mandatory to contact our proposed supervisor prior to an application?
A: No, but it is strongly recommended. Applicants are encouraged to reach out to potential supervisors for guidance.
Q: Can I re-submit an application?
A: Yes. Applicants can submit again in a future call if they are not selected.
Q: Should the applicant define secondments in the proposal already?
A: Yes. One or more secondments should be detailed in the project proposal, including duration and host.
Q: How flexible is the secondment in terms of duration and timing?
A: The secondment plan can be adjusted during the project, as long as the total secondment period stays within the 3 to 12 months and is agreed upon by the supervisors.
Q: How should we add references to our proposals, in footnotes or at the end?
A: The formatting is not specified, so either footnotes or a reference list at the end is acceptable—choose based on clarity and space management.
Q: Is the 10-page total length flexible? I notice that the template does not force any limitations.
A: The 10-page total PDF limit is enforced. Even though the project proposal template allows more pages, all sections including the Gantt chart must fit within the 10 pages.
Q: What should be included in the Financial Plan for research and travel-related costs?
A: The financial plan should specify how the research, networking, and secondment budgets will be used, including travel, consumables, conference fees, and publication costs.
Q: What are the mobility requirements for applicants?
A: To meet the mobility rule, applicants must not have lived or carried out their main activity (work, study, etc.) in Slovenia for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately before the call deadline.
Q: If someone has only been visiting or working under a hosting agreement, does that count toward the 12-month limit?
A: Yes. Any form of physical presence, including short-term visits, research stays, or work under a formal hosting agreement, is considered part of the applicant’s residence or main activity in Slovenia. Therefore, it does count toward the 12-month limit. Applicants are advised to carefully assess their stay and activities in Slovenia during the relevant 3-year period to ensure compliance with the mobility rule.