The Schmidt Science Fellows (SSF) Program addresses outstanding doctoral candidates from selected institutions who combine a strong scientific curiosity with the ability to collaborate and who are willing to work in a scientific field outside their previous research activities during the funding period.
Application Deadline:
- Internal KIT nomination deadline: 24 April 2026
- Online registration window: 19 May – 1 June 2026
- Full application deadline: 13 July 2026
- Interviews: January 2027
- Awardees announced: April 2027
- Fellowship start: July or October 2027
Tell Me About The Fellowship:
The Schmidt Science Fellows (SSF) Program, administered by Schmidt Futures in partnership with the Rhodes Trust, supports outstanding doctoral researchers in natural sciences, engineering, mathematics, and computing. The fellowship encourages fellows to pivot away from their PhD discipline and pursue ambitious, interdisciplinary postdoctoral research in a new field, while receiving leadership and innovation training at world‑leading institutions.
Which Fields are Eligible?
- Natural sciences
- Engineering
- Mathematics
- Computing
- Interdisciplinary science (pivoting away from PhD research area is required)
Type:
- Postdoctoral Fellowship | Interdisciplinary Science | Global
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Hold or expect to complete a PhD between May 1, 2026 and June 30, 2027.
- Be committed to interdisciplinary science.
- Be able to start fellowship in July or October 2027.
- Be available for onboarding and leadership convenings between April 2027 – July 2028.
- Demonstrate intellectual curiosity, collaborative spirit, global ambitions, and character aligned with SSF values.
How are Candidates Selected?
- Based on intellectual spark, global ambitions, character, collaborative spirit, and innovative use of tools.
- Must show readiness to pivot into a new discipline.
- Selection process includes:
- Academic reviews (Aug–Oct 2026)
- Online interviews (Jan 2027)
- Announcement of awardees (Apr 2027)
- Global placement selections (Jul–Oct 2027)
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- Global eligibility (all nationalities).
Where will the Fellowship be Taken?
- At a leading academic institution worldwide, chosen by the fellow.
How Many Awards?
- Not specified globally; each institution (e.g., KIT) can nominate up to seven candidates.
What is the Benefit of the Fellowship?
- Stipend: US $110,000 per year (up to 2 years, total $220,000).
- Leadership and innovation training.
- Placement at a world‑leading academic institution.
- Participation in the Science Leadership Program and annual Interdisciplinary Science Summit.
How Long Will the Fellowship Last?
- Up to 2 years.
Required Documents (KIT nomination process):
- Short CV
- List of relevant publications
- Letter of recommendation from nominator
- Letter of motivation (doctoral research + planned fellowship research + institution choice)
- Indication of expected PhD completion date (between May 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027)
How to Apply:
- Internal nomination (KIT): Supervisors submit nominations to [email protected] by 24 April 2026.
- Online registration: Selected nominees receive authorization codes to register (19 May – 1 June 2026).
- Full application submission: By 13 July 2026.
- Selection process: Academic review, interviews, and final award announcement.
