GermanyThe Schmidt Science Fellows 2027 is a fully funded postdoctoral fellowship designed for exceptional PhD graduates in science, engineering, mathematics, and computing. This highly competitive programme encourages researchers to move beyond their original field of study and tackle complex global challenges through interdisciplinary research.
The fellowship is jointly supported by Schmidt Futures and the Rhodes Trust, and hosted at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) in Germany. It aims to train the next generation of scientific leaders by providing advanced training, global networking, and career development support.
Schmidt Science Fellows Benefits
- Annual stipend of $110,000 (up to two years, totaling up to $220,000)
- Placement at a world-leading research institution
- Advanced leadership and innovation training
- Access to a global network of scientists, innovators, and industry leaders
- Career development support focused on interdisciplinary science
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Schmidt Science Fellows Eligibility Criteria
- Be in natural sciences, engineering, mathematics, or computing
- Be completing a PhD between May 2026 and June 2027
- Demonstrate strong academic excellence and research potential
- Show readiness to transition into a new scientific discipline
- Be nominated by their institution (only a limited number of nominations are allowed per university)
Available Subjects
The fellowship is focused on STEM disciplines, including:
- Natural sciences
- Engineering
- Mathematics
- Computer science and computing
A key requirement is interdisciplinary mobility. Fellows are expected to pivot into a new field different from their PhD specialization, such as:
- Physics to artificial intelligence
- Biology to computational genomics
- Engineering to climate science
- Mathematics to data science or machine learning
The programme prioritizes research that addresses complex global challenges.
How to Apply for Schmidt Science Fellows
- Institutional nomination by the home university
- Submission of a formal application
- Interviews and evaluation by an international selection panel
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Schmidt Science Fellows 2027. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
Can I apply directly without university nomination?
No. Applicants must be nominated by their institution before they can proceed to the global selection stage.
Do I have to change my research field?
Yes. A key requirement of the fellowship is moving into a new discipline different from your PhD research area.
Is this fellowship only for science students?
It is primarily for STEM fields, including science, engineering, mathematics, and computing.
What is the deadline for the Schmidt Science Fellows 2027?
The nomination deadline for participating institutions such as KIT is 13 July 2026.
What is the funding amount for this fellowship?
The fellowship provides an annual stipend of $110,000 for up to two years, totaling up to $220,000.
Who can apply for the Schmidt Science Fellows?
Applicants must be completing or have recently completed a PhD in natural sciences, engineering, mathematics, or computing, and be nominated by their institution.
What are the benefits besides the stipend?
Benefits include placement at a world-leading research institution, advanced leadership training, access to a global network, and career development support.
Is the fellowship open to international students?
Yes, the programme is open to applicants from all nationalities.
What disciplines are eligible?
Eligible disciplines include natural sciences, engineering, mathematics, and computer science.
When do selected fellows begin their placements?
Selected fellows begin their postdoctoral placements in mid to late 2027.
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