Miniatura 9 Research Grant by NCN Poland

About the Grant

The Miniatura 9 research grant, offered by the National Science Centre (NCN) in Poland, is designed to support early-career researchers in conducting preliminary research activities. Whether it’s an archival visit, a pilot study, or groundwork for a larger research project, this grant helps scholars prepare for future national or international funding competitions. With funding ranging from PLN 5,000 to PLN 50,000, the scheme is highly flexible and interdisciplinary, encouraging applicants from all fields of science and the humanities. It promotes innovation, supports research development, and strengthens international collaboration. The grant helps build academic careers and opens pathways to future research excellence.

Grant Details

Grant Name: Miniatura 9
Funding Agency/Institution: National Science Centre (NCN)
Location: Kraków, Poland (National)
Research Field(s): All academic disciplines (science, social sciences, arts, humanities)
Grant Type: Seed grant / Research visit / Archive or library research grant
Project Duration: Up to 12 months
Funding Amount: PLN 5,000 – PLN 50,000
Grant Start Date (Expected): Rolling, within 2025
Mode of Research: Individual
Application Type: Open call

Research Areas Supported

Climate change
Social sciences
Law and policy
Artificial intelligence
Biotechnology
Medical sciences
Environmental studies
History and philosophy
Digital humanities
Literature and culture
Engineering
Education

Eligibility Criteria

Minimum Requirements

Academic Qualifications: PhD (awarded after 1 January 2013)
Career Stage: Early-career researchers
Nationality/Residency: Open to researchers employed in Poland
Affiliation Requirements: Must be employed at a Polish university or research institution
Experience Level: At least one peer-reviewed publication or equivalent artistic/scientific achievement

Preferred Qualifications

Intent to submit a research proposal in future NCN or other competitive calls
Prior engagement in interdisciplinary or collaborative projects

Not Eligible

Undergraduate or master’s students
Applicants with concurrent NCN grants for the same project
Proposals involving cooperation with Russian entities (strictly excluded)

Grant Benefits

Funding Support: Covers direct research activity costs
Travel Allowance: Field trips, conferences, and research visits
Lab/Research Material Costs: Included in eligible expenses
Collaborative Research Funding: Not applicable (individual grant)
Publication or Dissemination Support: Supports preparatory activities for future publications
Host Institution Support: Admin support by affiliated Polish institution
Professional Development Opportunities: Indirect benefit via NCN Mentoring programme

Key Responsibilities

Conduct the proposed research activity within the 12-month limit
Submit interim and final reports
Use funds responsibly in line with NCN regulations
Engage in ethical research practices
Prepare to submit a larger follow-up proposal to NCN or other funding bodies

Application Process

How to Apply

Submission Mode: Online application
Application Portal: https://osf.opi.org.pl/en

Required Documents

Completed Application Form
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Research Proposal / Project Description
Budget Plan
Letter of Endorsement from Host Institution
Ethical Approval Statement (if applicable)
Prior Work or Publications (if applicable)
Reference Letters (if applicable)

Important Dates

Call Opens: 3 February 2025
Deadline: 31 July 2025, 16:00 CEST
Review Period: Rolling (monthly evaluations)
Results Notification: Within the month of submission, subject to budget availability
Project Start Date: Within 2025