The Google Academic Research Awards are global open calls for proposals supporting groundbreaking foundational and applied research in computing and technology. This 2026 cycle focuses on quantum computing, including early fault-tolerant algorithms and quantum security. Professors from degree-granting institutions worldwide are invited to submit proposals that advance innovation and align with Google’s mission to make a positive difference.
Google Research organizes these awards to foster collaboration between academia and industry. The program provides unrestricted gifts to selected projects, enabling faculty to explore novel ideas in computing. Past recipients have contributed to significant advances in areas like machine learning, systems, and security, and the awards serve as a catalyst for impactful research.
Google Academic Research Awards Benefits
- 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
- Funding cannot be used for overhead or indirect costs
Google Academic Research Awards Eligibility Criteria
- Open to professors (assistant, associate, full) at degree-granting institutions
- Must be actively advising students
- Research must be in computing or technology fields
- Co-PIs must meet same eligibility criteria, except postdoctoral researchers
- No geographic restrictions – global eligibility
How to Apply for Google Academic Research Awards?
- Prepare a proposal (5 pages max for single PI, 7 pages max with co-PI CV) including overview, abstract, research goals, methodology, outcomes, qualifications, and data policy
- Format proposal as single-spaced, 1-inch margins, no smaller than 10-point font
- Save proposal and CV as a single PDF, named [FirstInitialLastName]-2026 (e.g., JDoe-2026)
- Exclude references and budget from the proposal; provide them in designated application form sections
- Upload the PDF via Google’s Application Companion platform
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Google Academic Research Awards. These answers cover eligibility, proposal format, deadlines, evaluation criteria, and how to get in touch.
Who is eligible to apply?
Applications are open to academic researchers who are currently advising students and conducting research in technology and computing at academic institutions. Please refer to the specific call for proposal’s website for detailed information.
What is the proper format for the proposal?
Submit your proposal and CV as a single PDF file named [FirstInitialLastName]-2026. Single PI proposals are 5 pages maximum; co-PI proposals are 7 pages. Use single-spacing, 1-inch margins, and font no smaller than 10-point. Include numbered sections for overview, abstract, research goals, methodology, expected outcomes, qualifications, and data policy. Exclude references and budget from the proposal file.
Do I need to include references and a budget in my proposal?
No. References and budget details should be excluded from the proposal itself. Instead, use the designated sections in the application tool for this information. The budget section requires only a high-level overview of how funds will be used.
Does the co-PI need to meet the same eligibility criteria as the primary PI?
Co-PIs must generally meet the same eligibility criteria as primary PIs, except in cases where the co-PI is a postdoctoral researcher.
Can I submit a proposal outside of the featured research areas?
No. We are currently only accepting proposals within the research areas listed on the call for proposals page. Please review them to ensure your proposal aligns with the current open call.
What specific advice would you give to proposers to strengthen their applications?
Clearly define the problem, describe a specific achievable outcome, differentiate your contribution from prior work, outline your approach and risks, contextualize the work within your broader research goals, and make the proposal accessible to non-experts. Align your research with Google’s mission to support computing and technology that makes a positive difference.
What is the timeline for the selection process?
Applications open on June 26, close on August 7, and notification of decisions will be sent by October 30, 2026.
What is the evaluation criteria when assessing proposals?
Only complete applications from eligible applicants that adhere to formatting guidelines and relate to computing or technology will be scored. Scoring is based on faculty merit, research merit, proposal quality, and alignment with Google’s AI Principles. For topics requiring specific products or constraints, the proposal will also be evaluated on how well it utilizes those factors.
Can I use the award money to cover overhead expenses?
No. Funding awards made in any form should not be used for overhead or indirect costs.
How can I get in touch if I have any questions or concerns?
Please reach out to [email protected] with any questions or concerns, and our team will be happy to assist you.
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