Google Academic Research Awards 2026 – Call for Applications. Apply below.
Application Deadline:
- Applications open: 26 June 2026
- Applications close: 7 August 2026
- Notification of decisions: 30 October 2026
Tell Me About The Award:
The Google Academic Research Awards are global open calls for proposals supporting groundbreaking foundational and applied research in computing and technology. For the 2026 cycle, Google is focusing on quantum computing, particularly early fault‑tolerant algorithms and quantum security. These awards aim to empower academic researchers whose work advances innovation and aligns with Google’s mission to make a positive difference in the world.
Which Fields are Eligible?
- Quantum Computing
- Early Fault‑Tolerant Quantum Algorithms
- Quantum Computing Security
Type:
- Research Funding | Academic Awards | Computing & Technology
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be professors (assistant, associate, etc.) at degree‑granting institutions.
- Be actively advising students and conducting research in computing or technology.
- Co‑PIs must generally meet the same eligibility criteria, except in cases where the co‑PI is a postdoctoral researcher.
How are Applicants Selected?
- Proposals are scored based on:
- Faculty merit (research accomplishments, community engagement, open source contributions).
- Research merit (alignment with Google Research interests, innovation, potential impact).
- Proposal quality (clarity, focus, feasibility).
- AI Ethics principles (alignment with Google’s AI Principles).
- Only complete applications adhering to formatting guidelines are reviewed.
Which Countries are Eligible?
- Global (open to academic researchers worldwide).
Where will the Award be Taken?
- Conducted at the applicant’s home academic institution, with funding provided by Google.
How Many Awards?
- Varies annually depending on proposals received and funding priorities.
What is the Benefit of the Award?
- Research funding (amount varies by proposal).
- Support for groundbreaking projects in quantum computing.
- Collaboration opportunities with Google Research.
- Recognition as a Google Academic Research Award recipient.
- Note: Funding cannot be used for overhead or indirect costs.
How Long Will the Award Last?
- Typically one funding cycle (annual), depending on project scope and proposal.
How to Apply:
- Prepare a proposal (5 pages max for single PI; 7 pages max with co‑PI CV).
- Include required sections: overview, abstract, research goals, methodology, outcomes, qualifications, and data policy.
- Submit proposal and CV as a single PDF file named in the format: [FirstInitialLastName]-2026 (e.g., JDoe‑2026).
- Upload via Google’s Application Companion platform.
- Exclude references and budget from the proposal; provide them in designated application form sections.
Visit the Application Webpage for Details
Please refer to the specific award’s website for detailed information.
Select research areas will host informational sessions where you can ask questions about proposals, qualifications, and overall alignment with each area. We will offer session times convenient for various global regions. Please sign up for the session that best fits your schedule. To secure your slot for an insightful interaction with our Research area leads, kindly complete this form. This is an excellent opportunity to learn more about our program, seek guidance on strengthening your proposal, and gain valuable insights into our diverse research areas.
GOODLUCK!
