The Schmidt Science Fellows 2026 program is now open for applications through Technical University of Munich (TUM). This elite global fellowship supports the next generation of interdisciplinary science leaders with generous funding, world-class mentorship, and exclusive leadership training.
Closing Date: 24 April 2025
Host Institution: Technical University of Munich (TUM), Germany
Location: Global (with nomination via TUM)
Level: Postdoctoral Research Fellowship
Fields: Natural Sciences, Engineering, Mathematics, and Computing
Funding: Fully Funded ($110,000 stipend + leadership training)
What You’ll Get as a Schmidt Science Fellow
The fellowship provides one of the most generous postdoctoral funding packages in the world:
- $110,000 annual stipend for living and research costs
- Fully funded placement at a top international research institution
- Exclusive Science Leadership Training modules
- Ongoing mentorship from globally renowned scientists and innovators
- Access to a lifelong network of Schmidt Science Fellows worldwide
This is more than just funding. It’s a launchpad for leadership in science, innovation, and impact-driven research.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for nomination and consideration, applicants must:
- Be completing a PhD in Natural Sciences, Engineering, Mathematics, or Computing
- Have completed or will complete their PhD between 15 May 2025 and 30 June 2026
- Demonstrate interdisciplinary interest and leadership potential
- Be nominated by an official representative at a partner institution (e.g., TUM in Germany)
- Have international ambition and a vision for transforming global science through collaboration
What Documents Are Required?
Applications must be submitted as one single PDF file to marina.schmidt@tum.de and include:
- A 1-page Motivation Letter explaining your academic journey, goals, and fit with the program
- A full Curriculum Vitae (CV) with publication history, patents, and awards
- A summary of your PhD dissertation
- A support letter from your doctoral supervisor
How to Apply: Step-by-Step
- Confirm Your Eligibility
- You must be nearing PhD completion between May 2025 and June 2026
- Field of study must fall under natural sciences, computing, mathematics, or engineering
- Secure a Nomination
- Speak to your supervisor or department head at TUM or another partner institution
- Prepare Your Application Pack
- Compile all documents as listed above
- Submit via Email
- Send your complete PDF to: marina.schmidt@tum.de before 24 April 2025
- Wait for Selection
- Applications are evaluated on academic excellence, global research vision, and leadership potential
Why You Should Apply
- Global Recognition: Schmidt Science Fellows are internationally celebrated
- Leadership Fast-Track: Training designed to develop future Nobel-level thinkers
- Research Mobility: Work at top global labs and universities
- Life-Long Fellowship: Join an elite global alumni network of change-makers
- Massive Financial Support: $110,000 can help you focus on innovation without worry
If you’re a driven researcher with a passion for science that crosses boundaries—this could be your defining opportunity. The Schmidt Science Fellows 2026 program doesn’t just support research. It builds science leaders.
Apply now via Technical University of Munich and take the next big step in your academic career via the link below: