About the programme
Designed for postdoctoral researchers after their PhD and before their first faculty appointment, the fellowship funds independent pursuit of unconventional projects across natural sciences, engineering, social sciences and humanities. Up to ten fellowships are awarded each year. Current postdocs may apply. The fellowship continues after promotion, so some fellows become faculty during it. Applicants are also valued for their ability to communicate beyond their own field and with society at large.
Duration: Up to five years
Eligibility
- Postdoctoral researcher after PhD and before first faculty appointment
- Research project must be unconventional and outside the mainstream of science (natural sciences, engineering, social sciences or humanities)
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What they look for
- Current postdoctoral positions are eligible
- Passion for communicating beyond one's own field and with society at large
What you will need
- Online application via registration portal
How to apply
- Submit online application by 15 January 2027, 5 p.m. CET (submit 1-2 days early to avoid server overload)
- Shortlisted candidates invited to personal interviews, held via Zoom in June 2027 (7–9 June) with a panel in Zurich
- Notification in May 2027
- Fellows begin research projects between 1 October and 31 December 2027
Applications are submitted on Branco Weiss Fellowship – Society in Science (based at ETH Zurich)’s own site. Open Doors helps you prepare; it is not the official application portal.
From people who applied
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Source and verification
- Last checked
- 9 Nov 2026, read automatically from the official page
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