The 2026 AEI–DOST-PCIEERD Pilot Call: A Gateway to International Research Collaboration

The 2026 AEI–DOST-PCIEERD Pilot Call is an exciting initiative designed to foster joint research projects between Spain and the Philippines. This program aims to advance innovation and establish long-term scientific collaboration between the two nations. Selected proposals will receive funding from their respective national agencies, with projects having a maximum duration of 36 months.

What is the AEI–DOST-PCIEERD Pilot Call?

This bilateral research funding initiative is a collaboration between two key organizations:

• Agencia Estatal de Investigación (AEI) from Spain
• DOST-PCIEERD (Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development)

The program is designed to support joint research projects that not only promote scientific inquiry but also encourage innovation and practical applications.

Program Objectives

The AEI–DOST-PCIEERD Pilot Call has several key objectives:

• Strengthen Spain–Philippines Research Partnerships: By fostering collaboration, the program aims to build robust research networks that can tackle complex challenges.

• Support High-Quality Collaborative Innovation: The initiative encourages projects that push the boundaries of current knowledge and technology.

• Enable Knowledge Exchange and Capacity Building: Researchers from both countries will have the opportunity to learn from each other, enhancing their skills and expertise.

• Generate Impactful, Scalable Research Outcomes: The focus is on producing results that can be applied in real-world scenarios, benefiting both nations.

Key Research Areas

To align with the program’s goals, projects must focus on one or more of the following priority themes:

1. Advanced Materials

• Development of functional and nanostructured materials.
• Innovative applications of materials in various industries.

2. Circular Economy & Manufacturing

• Sustainable production systems that minimize waste.
• Resource efficiency and strategies for waste reduction.

3. Clean and Renewable Energy

• Research on energy efficiency and low-carbon technologies.
• Development of renewable energy solutions.

4. Smart Mobility

• Sustainable transport solutions that enhance mobility.
• Innovations in transportation technology.

5. Health Technologies

• Medical innovations aimed at improving health systems.

6. Digital & Emerging Technologies

• Focus on digital transformation and the use of AI, data, and advanced computing.

Funding Structure

The funding model for this initiative is a joint funding structure:

• Spanish partners will receive funding from the Agencia Estatal de Investigación.
• Filipino partners will be funded by the DOST-PCIEERD.

Number of Projects

The program anticipates funding up to four proposals, ensuring that selected projects receive adequate support.

Project Duration

Projects can run for a maximum of 36 months, allowing ample time for research and development.

Who is Eligible?

Filipino Applicants

To qualify, Filipino researchers must:

• Be affiliated with:
  • Universities or colleges
  • Research and development institutes
  • Public or private entities with proven competence
• Meet eligibility criteria under DOST Grants-in-Aid guidelines.

Spanish Applicants

Spanish researchers must meet the eligibility requirements set by the AEI.

Collaboration Requirement

A mandatory partnership between Spanish and Filipino research teams is essential for proposal submission.

Why This Program Matters

International collaboration is crucial for addressing complex global challenges. The AEI–DOST-PCIEERD Pilot Call plays a vital role in:

• Building Strong Bilateral Research Networks: By connecting researchers from both countries, the program enhances collaborative efforts.

• Accelerating Innovation and Technology Transfer: The initiative promotes the sharing of ideas and technologies, speeding up the innovation process.

• Promoting Global Competitiveness in Science: By fostering high-quality research, both nations can enhance their standing in the global scientific community.

• Supporting Commercialization and Real-World Application: The focus on practical outcomes ensures that research can lead to tangible benefits for society.

Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be assessed based on several criteria:

• Scientific Merit and Research Quality: The foundation of any successful project.
• Innovation and Originality: Unique approaches that stand out.
• Potential Impact and Outcomes: The significance of the research findings.
• Feasibility and Methodology: Practicality of the proposed research methods.
• Financial Soundness: A well-structured budget is essential.
• Timeline and Implementation Plan: Clear milestones and deadlines.
• Competence of Research Team: The expertise and experience of the team members.
• Utilization and Scalability of Results: Potential for real-world application and broader impact.

How to Apply

Step-by-Step Process

1. Form a Bilateral Team: Partner with a research institution in Spain or the Philippines.

2. Define Research Proposal: Ensure alignment with priority themes and focus on innovation.

3. Prepare Application: Include methodology, budget, and expected outcomes.

4. Submit to Relevant Agency:

   • Spanish applicants → AEI
   • Filipino applicants → DOST-PCIEERD

Tips for a Strong Proposal

• Clearly define joint collaboration roles to avoid confusion.
• Focus on real-world impact and scalability to demonstrate relevance.
• Showcase innovation that goes beyond existing solutions.
• Provide a clear commercialization or utilization pathway.
• Ensure strong coordination between partners to enhance project effectiveness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Weak collaboration between partners can undermine the proposal.
• Misalignment with priority research areas may lead to rejection.
• Lack of clear impact or outcomes can diminish the proposal’s appeal.
• Unrealistic timelines or budgets can raise red flags.
• Incomplete documentation can hinder the application process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who funds the projects?

Spanish partners are funded by Agencia Estatal de Investigación, while Filipino partners are funded by DOST-PCIEERD.

2. How many projects will be funded?

Up to four proposals are expected to be selected.

3. What is the maximum project duration?

Projects can run for up to 36 months.

4. Who can apply from the Philippines?

Researchers affiliated with universities, R&D institutions, or qualified entities.

5. Is collaboration mandatory?

Yes, proposals must involve both Spanish and Filipino partners.

6. What areas are prioritized?

Advanced materials, clean energy, digital tech, health, and more.

7. What is the main goal of the program?

To strengthen international research collaboration and innovation.

The AEI–DOST-PCIEERD Pilot Call 2026 represents a significant opportunity for researchers in Spain and the Philippines to collaborate on groundbreaking projects. By leveraging expertise and resources from both nations, this initiative aims to drive technological advancement and foster long-lasting international partnerships.