CYD Doctoral Fellowships 2025 in Switzerland – Fully Funded PhD for International Students

The CYD Doctoral Fellowships 2025 at the Università della Svizzera italiana in Switzerland offer international students the opportunity to complete a fully funded PhD in cutting-edge fields related to digital security and cyber-defence.

This program is jointly supported by the Cyber-Defence Campus (CYD) and Swiss higher education institutions, offering full financial coverage for up to four years.

About the CYD Fellowship

The Cyber-Defence (CYD) Doctoral Fellowships are part of a Swiss national initiative aimed at strengthening digital security research. Selected candidates will conduct PhD research at a Swiss university under the guidance of a Swiss professor, while collaborating closely with CYD experts in state-of-the-art laboratories and applied projects.

Fields of Study

Applicants may pursue PhDs in the following areas:

• Cyber Defence

• Artificial Intelligence (AI)

• Machine Learning

• Data Science

• Cybersecurity

• Cryptography

• Computational and Data Science and Engineering

• Systems Security

• Security Technologies

Fellowship Benefits

The CYD Doctoral Fellowship offers comprehensive financial and academic support:

• Full Salary & Social Security (as per host institution standards)

• CHF 3,000/year for research expenses

• CHF 5,000/year for conference participation

• Mentorship and Collaboration with Swiss professors and CYD experts

• Access to World-Class Research Infrastructure in Switzerland

• Opportunity to Contribute to National Cybersecurity Initiatives

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the CYD Fellowship:

• Nationality: Open to applicants of all nationalities

• Enrollment: Applicants must be (or plan to be) enrolled in a PhD program at a Swiss university

• Supervisor Support: Must have a confirmed endorsement from a Swiss professor

• PhD Stage: All stages eligible, but early-stage PhD applicants are preferred

• Age Limit: No age restrictions

Application Timeline

How to Apply

1. Stage 1: Initial Application

   • Submit CV, motivation letter, and a brief research proposal.

   • Applications must be submitted by August 20, 2025.

2. Interview Process

   • Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview with CYD experts.

3. Stage 2: Full Application

   • Submit a detailed research proposal, budget, and endorsement letters.

   • Final deadline: October 1, 2025.

4. Results Announcement

   • Final selection will be communicated by end of November 2025.

FAQs – CYD Doctoral Fellowships 2025

1. Who is eligible to apply?
Any international applicant who is (or will be) enrolled in a PhD program at a Swiss university with the support of a Swiss professor.

2. Can students already enrolled in a PhD program apply?
Yes. However, priority is given to candidates who are in the early stages of their PhD or have not yet started.

3. What funding is provided by the fellowship?
The fellowship includes full salary, CHF 3,000/year for research-related costs, and CHF 5,000/year for international conferences.

4. Do I need to secure university admission before applying?
No, but you must have the endorsement of a Swiss professor who will supervise your PhD.

5. How competitive is this program?
The CYD Fellowship is highly competitive. A strong research plan, clear motivation, and professor endorsement will strengthen your application.

6. Can I choose any Swiss university?
Yes, as long as the institution is officially recognized and you have a confirmed supervisor.

Final Thoughts

The CYD Doctoral Fellowships 2025 represent a prestigious and fully funded opportunity for passionate researchers in digital security, artificial intelligence, cryptography, and related fields. With robust financial support, access to leading research infrastructure, and mentorship from Switzerland’s top academics, this program is ideal for students aiming to become global leaders in cyber-defence and data innovation.

Don’t miss this opportunity — Apply today and shape the future of cybersecurity.