Summary
The University of British Columbia (UBC) is inviting applications for the 2027 Schmidt Science Fellowships. As a nominating partner, UBC is looking for the brightest emerging minds in the natural sciences, mathematics, engineering, and computing to undertake an ambitious disciplinary pivot. The mission of the program is to support a new generation of scientific leaders by providing individualized mentoring, global meeting series, and the opportunity to make a lasting impact on society by shifting their research focus toward novel solutions.
- 🎓 University of British Columbia (UBC) Fellowships 2027 are open to domestic and international students under the Schmidt Science Fellows Program in Canada.
- 🌍 Eligible Nationalities: Applicants from all countries can apply.
- 💰 Fellowship Value: Fellows receive $110,000 per year to support a 1-year full-time postdoctoral fellowship.
- 🔬 Research Fields: Open to candidates in Computer Science, Natural Sciences, Engineering, and Mathematics.
- 🧠 Program Goal: Develop the next generation of scientific leaders through interdisciplinary research, global workshops, and personalized mentoring.
- 🏆 Additional Benefits: Fellows attend four global residential meetings (five weeks total) and receive leadership and scientific training.
- 📚 Eligibility: Applicants must have completed (or expect to complete) a PhD from UBC between May 15, 2026, and June 30, 2027.
- 🧪 Eligible Disciplines: Computing, Engineering, Earth Sciences, Chemistry, Physics, Astronomy, Biology, Neurobiology, and related Natural Sciences.
Designation
Postdoctoral Fellow (Schmidt Science Fellows)
Fellowship Details Overview
| Feature | Details |
| University | University of British Columbia |
| Duration | 1 to 2 Years |
| Fellowship Coverage | $110,000 USD per year |
| Eligible Nationality | Canadian, Permanent Residents, and International |
| Award Country | Canada |
| Last Date | April 2027 (Internal department deadlines vary) |
Research Area
- Natural Sciences (Astronomy, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Earth Sciences)
- Engineering
- Mathematics
- Computing
Location
Canada (University of British Columbia for the nomination process; the postdoctoral placement can be at any approved world-leading laboratory globally).
Eligibility/Qualification
- Open to Canadian citizens, Permanent Residents, and International candidates.
- Must hold a graduate degree in the natural sciences, engineering, mathematics, or computing.
- Must have completed, or expect to complete, all the requirements for the conferral of their UBC PhD (including a successful defense) between May 1, 2026, and June 30, 2027.
- Must be available for the entire program period starting in July or October 2027, including attendance at virtual onboarding and the Global Meeting Series.
- Prospective UBC students are not eligible for nomination.
Job Description (Benefits & Expectations)
- Stipend: Fellows receive $110,000 USD per year for up to two years to support their research.
- Postdoctoral Study (The Pivot): Candidates will undertake full-time postdoctoral study in a world-leading laboratory. Crucially, this research must represent a genuine, ambitious, and innovative disciplinary departure (a “pivot”) from their PhD studies.
- Training and Mentorship: Fellows will participate in a Global Meeting Series (virtual and in-person) designed to mold the next generation of science leaders and provide personalized mentoring.
How to Apply
Applicants must submit their application materials directly to their UBC graduate program. A complete nomination package consists of:
- CV (Maximum 3 pages): Must include a list of publications.
- PhD Research Description (Maximum 1 page): A brief summary of your current doctoral research.
- Personal Statement (Maximum 1 page): Must address your character, genuine potential for science leadership, and global ambition for social good.
- Fellowship Research Proposal (Maximum 2 pages): Must outline your proposed postdoctoral research direction, clearly explaining the disciplinary pivot and its alignment with the Schmidt Science Fellows program.
- Options for Placement (Maximum 1 page): Three short outlines of potential labs where you may carry out this research (no secured position is required at this stage).
- One Letter of Support (Maximum 2 pages): A signed letter addressing your future potential and evaluating you against the fellowship criteria.
Note: Each faculty will review submissions and forward top nominations to the College of Graduate Studies, which will select candidates for the international competition.
Last Date for Apply
Open Now
Internal department nomination deadlines typically close in April 2027 (exact dates are set by individual UBC graduate programs). The global results are expected to be announced shortly thereafter. Please contact your specific department for precise submission dates.
