Applications for Public scholars initiative 2026/27 cohort will open on monday, 23 march 2026 and will run until friday, 22 may 2026.
Application Deadline:
- 22 May 2026
Tell Me About The Award:
The Public Scholars Initiative (PSI) at the University of British Columbia (UBC) supports doctoral students who want to connect their research to areas of public benefit. It encourages innovative, collaborative, and career-relevant scholarship that broadens the conception of doctoral education beyond academia. Awards of up to $10,000 are available to support projects that would otherwise be difficult to pursue.
Which Fields are Eligible?
- All doctoral programs at UBC Vancouver and UBC Okanagan (PhD, EdD, DMA, including part-time PhD students).
- Projects must have a significant research component and align with PSI’s goals of public engagement and impact.
Type:
- Doctoral Research Scholarship | Public Engagement & Innovation
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be registered in a UBC doctoral program as of 1 September 2025.
- Be in years 1–5 of their doctoral study (exceptional cases accepted in year 6).
- Have completed no more than 48 months of doctoral study by 31 August 2025.
- Submit required reports, attend PSI events, and present their work at PhDs Go Public.
How are Applicants Selected?
- Based on academic accomplishments and future promise.
- Fit of the project with PSI’s goals (public benefit, interdisciplinary reach, career relevance).
- Quality of proposed scholarship (clear goals, sound methodology, significance, dissemination plans).
- Need for alternative funding sources.
- Breadth of initiative across disciplines.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and international students enrolled in eligible UBC doctoral programs.
Where will the Award be Taken?
- University of British Columbia (UBC Vancouver and UBC Okanagan), Canada.
How Many Awards?
- Approximately 30 new students at UBC Vancouver.
- Approximately 5 new students at UBC Okanagan.
- Renewal funding available for a second year.
What is the Benefit of the Award?
- Up to $10,000 for:
- Research allowance (including professional development or travel).
- Student stipend (if current funding does not cover alternative projects).
- Eligibility for one-time renewal of up to $10,000.
- Networking, mentorship, and public engagement opportunities.
How Long Will the Award Last?
- One year, with the possibility of renewal for a second year.
How to Apply:
- Applications open 23 March 2026 and close 22 May 2026.
- Download the PSI Fellowship Application 2026–2027 and Application Instructions from the PSI webpage.
- Complete the form (sections capped at 4000 characters/1 page each).
- Upload the application form + Canadian Common CV as one PDF via the Qualtrics submission page.
- Ensure your supervisor submits a mandatory letter of support (collaborators may also submit optional letters).
- Submit before the deadline.
