The Schmidt Science Fellows program provides the world’s best emerging scientists with new skills and perspectives to develop novel solutions to society’s challenges, become scientific and societal thought leaders, and accelerate ground-breaking discoveries. 

The program is looking for the brightest minds in the natural sciences, mathematics, engineering, and computing who are interested in broadening their horizons.

ELIGIBILITY:

Citizenship: Canadian, Permanent Resident, and International

Degree Level: Doctoral

In order to be eligible for nomination and potential selection as a Schmidt Science Fellow, candidates must meet the following requirements:

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. Please note that prospective UBC students are not eligible for nomination.

Have conducted their graduate degree in the natural sciences (Astronomy, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Earth Sciences), Engineering, Mathematics, or Computing—and all sub-disciplines therein

Be available for the entire period of the 2027 program, from July 2027 to September 2028, including attendance of the Global Meeting Series (whether virtual or in person, as conditions allow, and including additional virtual programming).

The Schmidt Science Fellows program is committed to equality of opportunity for all candidates. Applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, gender, gender identity, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy or maternity, parental status, marital or civil partner status, race, color, ethnic or national origin, nationality, religion, or belief. 

Refer to the Schmidt Science Fellows webpage for eligibility FAQs.

Candidates to be Schmidt Science Fellows are expected to already have a strong track record of scientific achievement from their PhD studies, combined with a clear intellectual curiosity and desire to drive future discoveries.

They should have the commitment and character to engage with society and global challenges to make a lasting difference in the world. Fellows should have a collaborative spirit with the experience and desire to work with diverse teams and across scientific disciplines.

BENEFIT:

Value: $110,000 USD per year