Call for Applications: Jacobs CIFAR Research Fellowship Program (2027–2029)

Are you an early- or mid-career researcher passionate about advancing knowledge on how children and youth learn and develop? The Jacobs CIFAR Research Fellowship Program is now accepting applications, offering an exceptional opportunity to conduct impactful, interdisciplinary research with global relevance.

About the Fellowship

The Jacobs CIFAR Research Fellowship Program is a highly competitive international fellowship designed to support innovative research that improves learning, development, and educational outcomes for children and youth worldwide.The program brings together outstanding researchers working across disciplines such as:

• Education Sciences.
• Psychology.
• Economics.
• Sociology.
• Behavioral Science.
• Computer Science.
• Neuroscience.
• Linguistics.
• Learning Sciences.
• Pedagogy.

Research projects are expected to address critical challenges in learning and development, including:

• Understanding individual and contextual differences in learning.
• Designing scalable and equitable learning systems.
• Reducing inequalities in education.
• Using data and evidence to improve teaching and learning outcomes.

Who Should Apply?

This fellowship is open to researchers who meet the following criteria:

• Have completed a PhD within the last 10 years.
• Are currently employed at a university or recognized research institution.
• Conduct high-quality, interdisciplinary research aligned with the fellowship’s focus areas.
• Are committed to active participation in an international research network.
• Researchers from all countries and academic backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Fellowship Benefits

Successful applicants will receive:

• Research Funding: Up to CHF 150,000 over three years, with additional support for institutional overheads.
• Global Network: Access to an international community of leading researchers and scholars.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for mentorship, collaboration, workshops, and annual meetings.
• Research Visibility: Platforms to share findings with academic, policy, and practitioner audiences.
• Funding may be used to support salary costs, research assistants, travel, equipment, and other approved research expenses.

Key Dates

• Application Opening: November 24, 2025.
• Application Deadline: February 2, 2026 (12:00 PM EST).
• Fellowship Period: January 1, 2027 – December 31, 2029.

Why Apply?

The Jacobs CIFAR Research Fellowship Program offers more than financial support — it provides a collaborative environment where researchers can expand their impact, build interdisciplinary partnerships, and contribute to evidence-based solutions that improve learning and development outcomes for children and youth globally.

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How to Apply

Interested candidates are encouraged to prepare strong research proposals and apply before the deadline. Click Apply below to be redirected to the official website.

This is a unique opportunity to join a global network of scholars dedicated to advancing the science of learning and development.