Runway Startup Postdocs
Runway Startup Postdocs supports recent PhDs with funding, business training, and mentorship to turn deep technology expertise into startup companies and move from academic research to company creation.
Funder: Cornell University
Due Dates: February 1, 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Benefits package valued at $175,000 in year one; $150,000 for an approved second year (12–24 months)
Summary: Runway helps recent PhDs turn deep technology expertise into startup companies through funding, business education, and mentorship in New York City.
Key Information: Participants must live in New York City and incorporate their companies in the U.S.; support involves future-equity agreements.
Description
Runway Startup Postdocs is based at the Jacobs Technion-Cornell Institute at Cornell Tech. Combining elements of a business school, research institution, and startup incubator, it helps recent PhDs move from academic research into company creation. Participants develop ideas for unproven products and markets with academic and business mentorship, financial support, and time to establish their startups.
The program supports applications of digital technologies broadly, including AI, health technology, connective media, urban technology, security and privacy, computer vision, and public interest technology. It begins with entrepreneurship and business training, followed by ongoing startup development, mentorship, and connections to investors and the New York City startup community. The initial appointment lasts one year, with a possible one-year extension.
