This workshop will explore the opportunities and challenges of pursuing long-term postdoctoral positions in Europe, focusing on how to access competitive funding schemes and the types of projects required to secure these grants. It will also address the ideal stage in an academic career to apply and the preparation time necessary for a successful application. Different funding structures across countries will be compared, such as the Ramón y Cajal program in Spain, the FWF in Austria, the Humboldt Fellowship in Germany, and the Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions. Additionally, it will examine the distinctions between junior and senior postdoctoral positions and highlight the key differences between the U.S. and European academic systems. Finally, the session will offer strategies for making a smooth transition into the European academic landscape, considering the cultural and procedural shifts that can influence a researcher’s experience.