Applications are now open for the University of Michigan Schmidt AI in Science Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026, a fully funded opportunity for early-career researchers. Funded by Schmidt Sciences, this fellowship supports exceptional postdoctoral scholars aiming to transform scientific discovery using Artificial Intelligence (AI).

As part of a global network of top institutions, the program integrates AI across multiple scientific and engineering domains to foster groundbreaking research and innovation.

About the University of Michigan

Founded in 1817, the University of Michigan (U-M) in Ann Arbor is one of the world’s leading public research universities. It is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU) and consistently ranks among the top institutions for research, innovation, and academic excellence.

With 19 schools and colleges offering more than 275 programs, U-M is known for its strong commitment to diversity, sustainability, and global engagement. The university provides a vibrant, interdisciplinary environment where scholars collaborate to address real-world challenges.

Fellowship Details

Degree Level: Postdoctoral Fellowship

Fields of Study:
The fellowship supports research in the following areas using AI techniques such as machine learning, robotics, Bayesian inference, and simulation:

• Biological and Biomedical Sciences (excluding clinical and healthcare applications)

• Earth and Environmental Sciences

• Engineering

• Physical Sciences and Mathematics

Each Fellow is supervised by two U-M faculty mentors:

• AI Mentor: Expert in Artificial Intelligence methodologies

• Science Mentor: Specialist in the specific research domain

Participants also engage with the Michigan Institute for Data and AI in Society (MIDAS) for structured learning, collaboration, and responsible AI training.

Fellowship Benefits

• Annual Stipend: USD 81,000 + full benefits

• Mentorship: Dual supervision by AI and science mentors

• Research Support: Coverage of research costs, computing, publications, travel, and visa fees

• Professional Development: Participation in workshops, review sessions, and training programs

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Hold a PhD awarded after September 1, 2021 and before August/September 2026

• Demonstrate expertise in either AI or a scientific field with interest in the other

• Have no prior tenure-track faculty appointment

• Secure two U-M mentors (AI and Science)

• Commit to responsible AI practices and interdisciplinary research

Nationality: Open to all international and domestic applicants.
Visa Support: Provided for selected international fellows.

Application Process

Required Documents:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)

• AI Keywords (up to 3)

• Research Tagline (max 8 words)

• Research Blurb (300 words, general audience)

• Research Statement (max 2 pages)

• Individualized Development Plan (max 2 pages)

• Responsible AI Statement (½ page)

• Three Best Papers or Research Works

• Letters of Support from both mentors

• 2–3 Recommendation Letters

All materials must be submitted in PDF format via the official online application portal.

Key Dates

• Applications Open: September 2025

• Priority Deadline: November 30, 2025

• Offer Notifications: February 2026

• Fellowship Start Date: August–September 2026

Selection Criteria

Applicants will be evaluated on:

• Alignment with fellowship goals and interdisciplinary focus

• Originality and quality of research proposal

• Proven excellence in AI or related scientific domain

• Commitment to professional growth and responsible AI

• Strength of mentorship collaboration

• Contributions to diversity, equity, and inclusion

Commitment to Diversity

The University of Michigan and Schmidt Sciences emphasize diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The program encourages applications from underrepresented groups and ensures equitable access to mentorship and research opportunities.

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