April 15, 2024

The 2025 call for applications for the Schmidt Science Fellows is now active.

 Due date for internal nominations: May 10th at 12p.

  • Letter of recommendation and nomination by a faculty member (1pg)
  • Personal statement from the candidate (1pg)

 Submit nominations HERE.

 The Schmidt Science Fellows program, in partnership with the Rhodes Trust, aims to equip the next generation of leaders and innovators with the tools and opportunities to drive world-changing advances across the sciences and society by giving them a year of scientific broadening between their PhD and the start of their research career. The Schmidt Science Fellows program will expose participants to new scientific breakthroughs, new fields of studies, new micro-cultures, and new ideas that they will take with them throughout their lives.

 The University of Washington has been specifically invited to select nominees to advance to the international selection committee. In order to be eligible to become a Schmidt Science Fellow, individuals must have received or expect to receive a PhD in natural sciences (Astronomy, Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Earth Sciences), Engineering, Mathematics, or Computing – and all sub-disciplines therein. Candidates must have a keen interest in undertaking an interdisciplinary research pivot during a postdoctoral placement and to have completed, or be expected to complete, all the requirements for their PhD between May 15, 2024 and June 30, 2025.

 Successful Fellows are expected to combine scientific curiosity with extraordinary academic achievement. They should have demonstrated a collaborative spirit and have the ambition to make a lasting impact in science and in society, conducting research and pursuing knowledge that will benefit the world.

 Fellows receive a stipend of $110,000 and are supported by the Program to undertake a full-time, postdoctoral study for at least one year in a world-leading laboratory in a field different from their existing area of expertise. Fellows also spend five weeks during their fellowship year at four residential meetings around the globe where they receive custom-made training to help them become the next generation of science leaders.  In these meetings the fellows are introduced to new research ideas, techniques, and questions, they are exposed to a wide range of cutting-edge science, leading thinkers and institutions, and they receive tailored training in science communication, leadership and, how to facilitate interdisciplinary research. Throughout the fellowship year, Fellows receive regular scientific and professional mentoring from a member of our Academic Council, and they continue to have access to this support after their fellowship is complete to support their professional development further.

 UW Nominees will be notified and advanced to the Foundation by May 21st, 2024, and additional information about compiling a full application will be provided at that time. Nominees will need to register their interest with the Schmidt Foundation by May 30th, 2024, and full applications will be due on July 10, 2024.

Questions: For specific inquiries, please email: nominations@schmidtsciencefellows.org.