Jacobs CIFAR Research Fellowship Program 2027–2029 (Apply Now)

Application Deadline: February 2, 2026

Applications are now being accepted for the prestigious Jacobs–CIFAR Research Fellowship Program for the 2027–2029 cohort. This program provides crucial support to early and mid-career researchers whose work is dedicated to advancing learning and development outcomes for children and youth worldwide.

The fellowship empowers scholars to conduct impactful, interdisciplinary research that translates evidence into tangible change for the next generation.

About the Fellowship

The Jacobs–CIFAR Research Fellowship Program is a partnership between the Jacobs Foundation and the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR). It is designed to foster a global community of leading scientists committed to understanding and improving how children and youth learn and develop. Fellows gain unparalleled access to a collaborative network spanning disciplines and continents.

Fellowship Benefits

Selected fellows receive comprehensive support to advance their research and careers:

• Research Funding: Up to CHF 150,000 in flexible funding disbursed over the three-year fellowship term to support research activities.
• Global Network: Integration into CIFAR’s global, interdisciplinary research community, facilitating collaboration with senior fellows, policymakers, and fellow grantees.
• Career Development: Dedicated mentorship opportunities, leadership training, and platforms to share research with academic and public audiences.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Hold a PhD or equivalent doctoral degree obtained within the last 10 years (as of the application deadline).
• Be employed by or have a confirmed affiliation with a university or recognized research institution.
• Have a research program focused on child and youth learning and development. Relevant disciplines include, but are not limited to:

• Education Sciences
• Developmental Psychology
• Cognitive Neuroscience
• Economics of Education
• Artificial Intelligence in Learning
• Public Policy and Intervention Science
• How to Apply
• Interested researchers are invited to submit their applications through the official fellowship portal.

Click here to apply

Application Deadline

All applications must be submitted by February 2, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST).

This fellowship is ideal for ambitious researchers seeking to drive evidence-based change and innovation in education and child development across diverse global contexts. It is a unique opportunity to amplify the impact of your work within a world-renowned scientific community.