Funder: Schmidt Science Fellows
Due Dates (Anticipated): May 2027 (Institutional nominations) | June 2027 (Preliminary information) | July 2027 (Full application)
Funding Amounts: Personal stipend for a 12–24-month postdoctoral research placement
Summary: Supports early-career scientists in pivoting into a new discipline through postdoctoral research, mentorship, and leadership development.
Key Information: Direct applications are not accepted: candidates must be nominated by their PhD-awarding institution, a Nominating Partner Organization.
Description
Schmidt Science Fellows is an international postdoctoral fellowship supporting exceptional scientists who want to move beyond their PhD discipline. Founded by Eric and Wendy Schmidt, funded by Schmidt Sciences, and delivered in partnership with the Rhodes Trust, the program combines research placements with mentorship, leadership and science-communication development, and membership in a global community of Fellows.
The program supports natural sciences, engineering, mathematics, and computing, including fundamental and applied research. Fellows propose an ambitious interdisciplinary pivot that develops new skills, perspectives, and networks rather than incrementally extending their doctoral work. Research plans should demonstrate originality and technical feasibility within a 12–24-month placement, alongside a longer-term vision for scientific or societal impact. Selected Fellows work with the Program Team and Academic Council to finalize their research plans and host laboratories.
