The Schmidt Science Fellowship 2027 is officially accepting applications from exceptional PhD graduates in the natural sciences, engineering, mathematics, and computing. In partnership with the Rhodes Trust, the Fellowship aims to cultivate the next generation of global science leaders capable of transcending disciplines, accelerating discovery, and tackling the world’s most pressing challenges.
What is the Schmidt Science Fellowship?
The Schmidt Science Fellowship (SSF) is a prestigious postdoctoral program designed to provide outstanding scientists with a unique opportunity to pivot their research into a new field, fostering interdisciplinary innovation. Fellows receive:
- A personal stipend of $110,000 per year for up to two years.
- Scientific freedom to pursue ambitious research goals and bold ideas.
- Personalized mentorship to nurture scientific and societal leadership.
- Professional development through week-long residential convenings and virtual offerings.
- Access to a lifelong network of Schmidt Science Fellows, encouraging collaboration and career growth.
Eligibility Criteria for Applicants
Applicants for the 2027 cycle must meet the following requirements:
- PhD research completed or expected in natural sciences, engineering, mathematics, or computing between May 1, 2026, and June 30, 2027.
- Affiliation with a nominating partner institution of Schmidt Science Fellows.
- Commitment to start the Fellowship in July or October 2027.
- Demonstrated interest in pursuing postdoctoral research in a field distinct from their PhD to foster interdisciplinary innovation.
- Nomination by a senior official at a recognized partner institution.
Note: Clinical-track MD-PhD or Veterinary-PhD students are not eligible.
Key Selection Criteria
Schmidt Science Fellowship evaluates candidates based on multiple dimensions:
- Intellectual Achievement: Sustained evidence of scientific excellence.
- Curiosity: Demonstrated creativity and openness to new ideas.
- Interdisciplinary Pivot: Motivation to move beyond the PhD discipline.
- Collaboration: Ability to work effectively with diverse teams.
- Leadership & Impact: Potential to become a scientific and societal leader.
Application Process and Timeline
Applications are by invitation only, following nomination by UCSF’s Division of Graduate Education and Postdoctoral Affairs (GEPA). Key dates include:
- Internal UCSF Nomination: Deadline April 9, 2026.
- Registration for SSF Application Portal: May 19 – June 1, 2026.
- Full Application Submission: By July 13, 2026.
- Academic Review: August – October 2026.
- Finalist Interviews: January 2027.
- Final Decisions: March 2027.
- Fellowship Placements Begin: July – October 2027.
Applications require:
- Academic history and transcripts.
- Current CV with publications.
- 4–7 letters of recommendation.
- Personal statement outlining motivations.
- PhD research summary.
- Proposed postdoctoral research plan with potential host labs.
Why Apply?
The Schmidt Science Fellowship is ideal for ambitious scientists who aim to:
- Broaden their research horizons by exploring new scientific disciplines.
- Gain mentorship from world-leading scientists and scholars.
- Join an exclusive global network of high-impact science leaders.
- Contribute to solutions for global scientific and societal challenges.
This Fellowship represents a transformative opportunity to accelerate your career, achieve interdisciplinary breakthroughs, and position yourself as a future scientific leader.
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