USA University of Michigan AI Fellowship 2026
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Applications are open for the University of Michigan Schmidt AI in Science Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026, a fully funded research opportunity designed for outstanding early-career researchers who want to use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to advance scientific discovery.
Supported by Schmidt Sciences, this fellowship provides postdoctoral researchers with financial support, advanced research resources, expert mentorship, and opportunities to collaborate across AI and scientific disciplines. The program aims to build the next generation of researchers who can solve complex scientific challenges through responsible AI innovation.
The fellowship is part of a global initiative that connects leading research institutions and promotes interdisciplinary collaboration between artificial intelligence experts and scientists from different fields.
About the University of Michigan
The University of Michigan (U-M), located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, was founded in 1817 and is one of the most respected public research universities in the United States. The university is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU) and is globally recognized for its research excellence, innovation, and academic impact.
U-M offers more than 275 academic programs through 19 schools and colleges. The university provides a highly collaborative research environment where scholars work on solutions to major global challenges in science, technology, healthcare, sustainability, and engineering.
Through its strong research infrastructure and international partnerships, the University of Michigan supports researchers in developing innovative approaches that combine technology with scientific advancement.
University of Michigan Schmidt AI Fellowship 2026 Details
Fellowship Type
Postdoctoral Research Fellowship
Host Institution
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
Funding Organization
Schmidt Sciences
Fellowship Duration
The fellowship supports postdoctoral researchers working on interdisciplinary AI-based scientific projects.
Research Areas
The fellowship welcomes applications from researchers applying AI methods to major scientific fields, including:
Biological and Biomedical Sciences
Research involving AI applications in biological sciences and related areas. Clinical and healthcare-focused projects are not included.
Earth and Environmental Sciences
Projects using AI to understand environmental systems, climate-related challenges, and Earth sciences.
Engineering
Research involving AI-driven engineering solutions, computational methods, robotics, and advanced technologies.
Physical Sciences and Mathematics
Projects applying AI techniques to physics, mathematics, computational science, and related disciplines.
AI Technologies Supported Through the Fellowship
Selected researchers may apply advanced AI techniques such as:
Machine Learning
Using computational models to analyze complex scientific data and develop predictive solutions.
Robotics
Applying intelligent robotic systems for scientific research and experimentation.
Bayesian Inference
Using statistical AI methods to improve scientific decision-making and uncertainty analysis.
Simulation and Computational Modeling
Developing advanced simulations to study complex scientific processes.
Fellowship Benefits and Financial Support
The University of Michigan Schmidt AI in Science Postdoctoral Fellowship provides comprehensive financial support to selected fellows.
Annual Salary and Benefits
Selected researchers receive:
- Annual stipend of USD 81,000
- Full employee benefits
- Research-related financial support
Research Funding Support
The fellowship covers important research expenses, including:
- Computing resources
- Research activities
- Publication costs
- Conference and research travel expenses
- Visa-related support for international fellows
Mentorship Opportunities
Each fellow receives guidance from two University of Michigan faculty mentors:
AI Mentor
An expert in artificial intelligence methods who supports the development and implementation of AI techniques.
Science Mentor
A researcher specializing in the fellow’s scientific discipline who provides domain-specific guidance.
Fellows also participate in activities organized through the Michigan Institute for Data and AI in Society (MIDAS), including AI training, research collaboration, and responsible AI development programs.
Eligibility Criteria for Schmidt AI Fellowship 2026
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
Academic Requirements
- Hold a PhD degree awarded after September 1, 2021, and before August/September 2026.
- Have research experience in Artificial Intelligence or a scientific discipline.
- Demonstrate interest in applying AI methods to scientific challenges.
Research Requirements
Candidates should:
- Develop interdisciplinary research ideas combining AI and science.
- Show potential for innovative scientific contributions.
- Commit to responsible and ethical AI practices.
Mentorship Requirement
Applicants must identify and secure support from two University of Michigan faculty members:
- One AI-focused mentor
- One science-focused mentor
Other Requirements
Applicants must:
- Have no previous tenure-track faculty appointment.
- Be willing to participate in fellowship activities and professional development programs.
Nationality Requirements
The fellowship is open to:
- International applicants
- Domestic applicants
Selected international fellows may receive visa assistance from the university.
Required Application Documents
Applicants need to prepare the following documents:
Academic and Research Documents
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Three best research papers or academic works
- Research statement (maximum 2 pages)
- Research tagline (maximum 8 words)
- Research summary for general audiences (300 words)
Fellowship Statements
Applicants must also submit:
- Responsible AI statement (half page)
- Individual Development Plan (maximum 2 pages)
- AI keywords (up to three keywords)
Recommendation Documents
Required supporting materials include:
- Letters of support from both University of Michigan mentors
- Two to three recommendation letters
All documents must be prepared in PDF format and uploaded through the official online application system.
Application Timeline for University of Michigan Schmidt AI Fellowship 2026
Important dates include:
| Application Stage | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | September 2025 |
| Priority Deadline | November 30, 2025 |
| Selection Notifications | February 2026 |
| Fellowship Begins | August–September 2026 |
Applicants are encouraged to begin preparing their research proposal and contacting potential mentors early.
Selection Process and Evaluation Criteria
The selection committee evaluates candidates based on several factors:
Research Excellence
Applicants should demonstrate strong research achievements and the ability to contribute original ideas.
AI and Scientific Integration
The proposed research should effectively combine AI methodologies with scientific discovery.
Research Proposal Quality
Applications are assessed based on originality, feasibility, and potential impact.
Mentorship Collaboration
The strength of collaboration between AI and science mentors is an important evaluation factor.
Responsible AI Commitment
Candidates should demonstrate awareness of ethical AI development and responsible research practices.
Diversity and Inclusion
The program values contributions from researchers with diverse backgrounds and encourages applications from underrepresented groups.
Why Apply for the Schmidt AI in Science Fellowship?
The University of Michigan Schmidt AI Fellowship provides researchers with an opportunity to work at the intersection of artificial intelligence and scientific innovation.
Benefits of joining the program include:
- Working with leading AI and scientific researchers
- Access to advanced research infrastructure
- Strong financial support
- International research exposure
- Professional development opportunities
- Opportunities to contribute to future AI-driven discoveries
For researchers interested in AI-powered scientific advancement, this fellowship offers a unique platform to develop impactful research projects.
Expired
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