The Schmidt Science Fellows 2026 program is a fully funded Postdoctoral fellowship hosted by the Technical University of Munich (TUM). It offers exceptional PhD graduates in STEM fields an opportunity to advance interdisciplinary research with a $110,000 annual stipend. Additionally, it provides global mentorship and networking benefits.
Below is a detailed guide to the Schmidt Science fellowship, including eligibility criteria, application steps, and key deadlines.
Overview of Schmidt Science Fellows 2026
The Schmidt Science Fellows initiative aims to cultivate future scientific leaders by bridging disciplines and innovative research. Key features include:
- Fully funded postdoctoral research with a $110,000 annual stipend for living and research expenses.
- Interdisciplinary workshops and mentorship from Nobel laureates, industry leaders, and global innovators.
- Access to a lifelong fellowship community and opportunities to collaborate at top institutions like MIT, Oxford, and TUM.
- Emphasis on natural sciences, engineering, mathematics, and computing.
Eligibility Criteria for Schmidt Science fellows 2026
To qualify, applicants must meet the following requirements
- Be completing or have completed a PhD in natural sciences, engineering, mathematics, or computing
- PhD requirements must be fulfilled between May 15, 2025, and June 30, 2026
- Must be endorsed by a designated official at a partner institution, such as TUM
- Demonstrate a commitment to interdisciplinary science and leadership potentialÂ
Exclusions:
- Candidates with PhDs outside the specified fields or timelines.
- Applicants not affiliated with a partner institutionÂ
Application Process
Prepare Documents
Submit a single PDF file containing:
- 1-page Motivation Letter: Highlight academic achievements, research vision, and alignment with the fellowship’s interdisciplinary goals.
- Curriculum Vitae: Include publications, patents, and awards.
- PhD Dissertation Summary (up to 5 pages): Outline key findings and methodologies.
- Support Letter: From your doctoral supervisor, emphasizing your leadership and collaborative spirit.
Secure Nomination
- Contact TUM’s designated official or department to obtain a nomination.
Submit Application
- Email the PDF to marina.schmidt@tum.de by April 24, 2025.
Await Selection
- Applications are evaluated based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and interdisciplinary impact.
- Successful candidates are notified by August 2025.Â
Benefits
- $110,000 annual stipend for living and research cost.
- Additional funds for travel, equipment, and conferences
- Workshops on interdisciplinary collaboration and societal impact
- Guidance from leading scientists and innovator
- Conduct research at top international institutions.
- Join a lifelong network of fellows and alumniÂ
Why Apply?
- Join a cohort of trailblazers recognized for their scientific curiosity and global ambition.
- Transition into a new research field post-PhD to address complex global challenges.
- Gain skills to excel in academia, industry, or policy-making roles.Â
Key Deadlines
- Application Submission: April 24, 2025.
- PhD Completion: Must finalize all requirements by June 30, 2026.Â
The Schmidt Science Fellows 2026 program is a great opportunity for PhD graduates aiming to lead interdisciplinary research. With its financial support, mentorship, and global network, this fellowship allows scholars to tackle pressing scientific and societal challenges.
For more details, visit the Schmidt Science Fellows official website or contact TUM’s Graduate School at marina.schmidt@tum.de.
